The Hummer H3 is considered by many to be the runt of the Hummer litter. It is smaller and more agile than either the mighty H2 or the original H1 and possesses a style suited for everyday driving.
But looks can be deceiving and Hummer DNA runs through the H3 from top to bottom. Not to be taken lightly, it is capable of handling the worst road conditions, while at the same time being equally competent around town or on the highway.
2006 HUMMER H3
2006 HUMMER H3
2006 HUMMER H3
2006 HUMMER H3
2006 HUMMER H3
The H3 is powered by a Vortec 3500 in-line, 5-cylinder engine. Mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or the optional Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic, it delivers 220 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm.
Driving the baby Hummer is easy. Built on a fully welded steel frame, the H3 offers power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, independent front suspension and a hardy multi-leaf rear suspension setup. Resting on monotube gas-charged shocks, it presents a smooth riding experience comparable to any mid-size SUV in the market.
It may surprise you to learn the H3 has a 2 ft. smaller turning radius than the 2006 Volvo XC90. A stunning achievement given that Volvo is considered one of the best at making their vehicles turn on the spot.
A 2-speed transfer case is the basis of the H3’s electronically controlled full-time 4WD system. Add the available Off-Road Suspension Package and the H3 is capable of handling even the most formidable off-road pursuits.
Traction control is standard on the Hummer H3. The system works by applying additional brake pressure to the appropriate wheel with the capability to control a single wheel and electronically lock the rear differential.
Brakes are 4-wheel disc with ABS. Front brakes offer 4-piston caliper stopping power, while the rear highlight a single-piston sliding rear caliper with Dynamic Rear Proportioning for improved braking.
This translates into excellent stopping power for a vehicle weighing in at a hefty 2,132 kg. Not one to shy away from hauling a trailer or boat, the H3 will tow up to a maximum of 2,041 kg and carry a payload of 522 kg.
Sitting high above the ground the H3 rides on 32” wheels and P265/75R16 all-terrain tires. Even more extreme, ordering the optional Off-Road Suspension Package will increase wheel size to a whopping 33” and add P285/75R16 al-terrain tires.
Inside, the Hummer H3 is all business in how it approaches the driver and passenger experience.
A four spoke steering wheel offers manual tilt adjustability. Electronic cruise control is activated from a series of buttons on the steering. It is simple to use and provides the added benefit of allowing the driver to keep their eyes fixed firmly on the road ahead.
Large round gauges provide excellent feedback and sit recessed under an oversized, rectangular hood to keep out unwanted glare.
A central console contains all HVAC controls for the H3. Round dials coordinate fan speed, temperature settings and airflow direction. Two A/C adapters offer plug and play power for various electronic accessories.
Standard equipment also consists of an AM/FM stereo with CD player, speed-compensated volume control and 6 speakers. Stereo options include an in-dash 6-disc CD with 7 Monsoon speakers or a CD player with MP3 playback.
Seats are fully reclining front buckets, with rear seating for three. The driver’s seat offers manual lumbar support, while the rear seats fold in a 60/40 split. Leather is optional and includes heated front seats with 8-way power adjustment.
Occupant safety features consist of 3-point seat belts for all passengers, along with dual front airbags with passenger sensing. Optional protection adds head curtain air bag for improved side impact safety.
Power windows, outside mirrors, keyless entry and a one year OnStar subscription are standard along with fog lights, deep-tinted rear glass and a roof rack with side rails.
The 2006 Hummer H3 may be petite when compared to the larger and more powerful H1 and H2, but it should not be underestimated as a potential off-road champ. Possessing enough chic to be taken seriously as a Hummer and sized for city driving, it deserves consideration when choosing a new mid-size SUV.
2006 Hummer H3
Description: Mid-size SUV
Wheelbase: 2842 mm Overall length: 4742 mm
Rear cargo length: 810 mm behind rear seat
Engine size: Vortec 3500
Transmission: 5-speed Manual, 4-speed Hydra-Matic
Transfer case: 2-speed, electronically controlled, full-time 4WD
Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
Braking: Power 4-wheel disc, 4-wheel
ABS Air bags: 2 (front)
Fuel mileage city/hwy L/100 km: 15.6/10.9
Original MSRP: $39,995.00