The Hummer H3 is classified as a mid-size SUV, but we all know there's nothing mid-size about its proportions. Its sizeable and robust design, often associated with American SUV culture, is one of the reasons why it's a Favorite not just within the United States but also in other parts of the world, particularly among those that have not had the opportunity to enjoy American-made vehicles. One of the reasons the Hummer H3 is classified as a mid-size SUV is its more compact design, which is smaller in contrast to the notably larger Hummer H1 and H2 models. It was crafted as a mainstream alternative, emphasizing practicality, versatility, and comfort, which could have been more prominent in the Hummer H1 and H2. But this doesn't mean General Motors made the Hummer H3 softer. Boasting decently powerful engine options, all powering a full-time four-wheel-drive system, it's a go-anywhere truck built to handle any terrain. It's just as smooth on paved roads with its almost 5,000-pound weight, giving it excellent stability and astronomical ride comfort. That comes at a cost, though. The gas mileage will have you plot gas station stopovers before road trips. As a screen star in music videos, TV shows, and movies, the luxury and style allure of the Hummer H3 never seems to fade, which, for most buyers, is the reason they'll buy one, even though they won't admit it directly. If you were to buy one, yellow is the most preferred color and is perfectly complemented by chrome wheels that are slowly re-emerging in the car scene among other car styling trends from the 2000s. Wondering which car to add to your garage for around $10,000, why not get a Hummer H3?
Sprung from General Motors's small pickup lineup, the Hummer H3 debuted at the California Auto Show in Anaheim. During the H3's unveiling, fuel prices hit gas station ceilings, so it was a welcome addition to GM's offerings. Its significantly smaller size was not an issue for consumers as it meant less weight than the Hummer H2, thus lower fuel consumption. The Hummer H3's smaller size resulted from General Motors using a body-on-frame chassis borrowed from the automaker's smaller pickups, such as the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, unlike the Hummer H2, which used a full-size SUV chassis. As a result, the Hummer H3 had a wheelbase similar to most mid-size sedans produced during its tenure, which GM claimed made it more suitable for city use. Buyers disputed this, claiming they'll only believe when they see it, which they did after production began in 2005 at GM's assembly plant in Shreveport, Louisiana. Production was later expanded to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and Kaliningrad, Russia. Production of the Hummer H3 continued until early 2010, when GM discontinued it due to shifting consumer preferences and low sales. Additionally, a recession began around 2007, reducing the demand for high-maintenance vehicles, a category the H3 falls under. It's estimated that General Motors made 156,796 Hummer H3 examples during its 5-year production run. Quite a low number, but it doesn't affect market prices, considering you don't have to break bank to buy one.
As standard, the Hummer H3 was equipped with a 3.5-liter 5-cylinder petrol engine pushing out 220 horsepower and 225 lb.ft, which might seem insufficient considering the car's weight, but it does the job. Most buyers didn't opt for the 4-speed automatic transmission, retaining the 5-speed manual transmission option, the first standard manual transmission in a Hummer. Is the 3.5-liter 5-cylinder reliable and durable? Yes. However, the 300-horsepower and 320 lb.ft 5.3-liter V8 that debuted in the 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha suits demanding driving conditions better. Its only disadvantage is that GM didn't offer a manual transmission option for it. The only way to have a manual transmission in a Hummer H3 is to get one with the 3.5-liter engine or the 242 horsepower and 242 lb.ft 3.7-liter engine that replaced the 3.5-liter in 2007. 0-60 mph takes anywhere between 9.0 seconds and forever, but it's a non-issue since GM didn't intend the Hummer H3, or any Hummer for that matter, to set SUV acceleration records. Even its nearly 5,000-pound weight should tell you that. The Hummer H3's off-road prowess is where it truly shines, thanks to its Borg-Warner 2-speed electronically controlled full-time four-wheel drive system that was optimized for road use, delivering excellent ride comfort and stability.
Moving away from the Hummer H1 and H2's utilitarian interior design, GM made the interior in the Hummer H3 more comfort-oriented, appealing to buyers who wanted more from the interior than just a rugged appeal. The cabin accommodates five, with all occupants getting decent headroom and legroom, including the rear seat middle passenger, thanks to the H3's width. The most significant change compared to the Hummer H1 and H2 is the island of a center console, which is almost non-existent in the Hummer H3. Instead, it has a regular center console and armrest that the driver or front seat passenger can use. The cabin is predominantly covered in plastics; in most cases, when buying a Hummer H3, you'll find the plastics faded to a grey accent. However, that is compensated by an array of intuitive controls, making the driving experience relatively enjoyable. Additionally, the inclusion of fine elements such as the half leather seats and a leather steering wheel, optional during production, and strategically placed brushed aluminum and chrome accents add a touch of modern styling to the cabin. Behind the rear seats, the Hummer H3's boxy design, like most SUVs, is advantageous, offering ample room for cargo storage. The non-sloping back end also enhances cargo area, increasing the H3's utility and allowing loading, maximizing every inch available. Furthermore, the folding rear seats and flat floor make it convenient to carry any cargo. It could be something regular, such as a dog crate, to one-in-a-while items like a washing machine. Also, if you plan on using a H3 for Overlanding, external vehicle storage might not be much of a necessity.
Compared to the Hummer H2, the Hummer H3 is 16.9 inches shorter in length, 6 inches shorter in height, and 6.5 inches narrower. However, it pays homage to its lineage in every element of its design, drawing unmistakable inspiration from the Hummer H1 and H2. The most evident design cure is the signature front grille with vertical vents that establishes a visual connection to other members of the Hummer Family. Bulky fenders, instead of the regular fender flare attachments you'll find on most SUVs, accentuate the side profile's aggressive appeal, contributing to the Hummer H3's muscular presence. It's hard not to notice one several cars behind you in traffic. Its towering height reinforces its firm presence, making the Hummer H3 a standout choice for those who appreciate a bold and commanding vehicle not only on the road but also when stationary. In addition, the utilization of a roof rack and the option for a rear-mounted spare tire echo design elements found in other Hummer models showcase a cohesive and recognizable aesthetic from the Hummer Family that perhaps GM wanted Hummer H3 buyers to feel a part of.
Precision engineered as a highly proficient off-road performer, the Hummer H3 showcases engineering and technological excellence, enhancing its capabilities when driving surfaces away from the city's roads. Its robust ladder frame makes it well-suited for off-road driving, providing better durability and strength even under the stress of uneven terrain, setting the H3 miles ahead of other mid-size SUVs. The ladder frame also enhances the ride feel over uneven surfaces, even when driving at relatively higher speeds, allowing independent flexing of the body and frame. Enhancing the Hummer H3's off-road prowess is its exceptional electronically controlled full-time four-wheel-drive system made by Borg-Warner, considered among the best even by today's 4WD system standards. Borg-Warner's two-speed 4WD system features in the Hummer H3 a 2.64:1 ratio low-range gear reduction to enhance off-road control by optimizing torque delivery to the wheels and improving traction, thus reducing the risk of wheel slippage. Buyers could even get the Hummer H3 with an even lower gearing set during production. After a weekend off the grid, the four-wheel-drive system performs outstandingly on the road, ensuring a smooth and confident on-road driving experience on your way home.
Being the newest ICE Hummer, General Motors replaced the Hummer H3 with the Hummer EV after a decade's hiatus of the Hummer name. It received mixed reactions, but EV enthusiasts gladly embraced it to the ever-growing world of EVs, and it's a marvel, to say the least, with intuitive and bespoke features cradled underneath a design that bears a strong resemblance to the Hummer H3T. With the H3's replacement being an EV, which is obviously not cheap, most hardcore enthusiasts and Hummer fanatics prefer the older Hummers, with the H3 being the most popular choice due to its slightly refined form. Market prices average $10,000, but if you buy one with the 3.5-liter or the 3.7-liter engine, you might get one for almost as half as much. Due to owner attachment and work that might have been done to the car, prices can sometimes go up to $15,000, which is still a bargain. Would you buy a Hummer H3 over a Hummer EV?
The Hummer H3's iconic stature, rooted in American SUV culture, transcends borders and captivates enthusiasts worldwide, especially those longing for a taste of American vehicles. It holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts, especially adventure seekers, as the H3 is a capable companion on any terrain. Finally, the Hummer H3 is a reminder that the best SUVs aren't about fuel efficiency, practicality, or even the best comforts, as it's all about character, capability, and making a statement on the road. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! In an era dominated by sleek crossovers and electric SUVs, the Hummer H3 offers a refreshing dose of old-school, American-made muscle. Its iconic design, timeless appeal, and surprisingly affordable price tag make it a tempting proposition for anyone who wants a vehicle that stands out from the ordinary.
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