Hummer H3

Impressions: Consider the 2006 H3 a "Diet H2" with fewer calories, less fat, a lower price and less of an appetite for Mother Earth's resources. The H3 is built on GM's mid-size Canyon/Colorado truck platform (not the TrailBlazer's as you might have read elsewhere) whereas the larger H2 is based on the previous-generation Suburban/Tahoe full-sized sport-ute platform. That means a ladder-type body-on-frame construction, torsion-bar front suspension and leaf-spring/solid-axle suspension out back. You'll also get the upgraded Canyon/Colorado 3.7-liter five-cylinder engine that's rated at 242 horsepower (up 10 per cent from 2006's 3.5-liter engine) coupled to a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. GM reports that acceleration is on par with the V8-powered H2. Built to rigorous off-road specifications — yes, this is a real off-roader and not a pavement princess — the H3 comes with standard full-time four-wheel drive as well as a two-speed (with low-range) transfer case, nine inches of ground clearance, underbody shielding, stability control and your choice of 32- or 33-inch-tall tires. Inside you'll get most power amenities, cloth seats (leather is optional) and a large sunroof. Side-curtain airbags and a rollover sensor are optional features. For 2007, stability control that keeps the H3 pointing in the direction the driver intends becomes standard. Although there are many ways to deck out your H2 using aftermarket accessories, Hummer offers up its H3X, a model that adds about $8,000 to the base price and includes, among other things, leather seats, premium sound system, chrome appearance package with chrome tube side steps and fuel door, unique wheels and tires and a front brush guard. Base price: $29,400 Type: Four-door sport-utility vehicle Base engine (hp): 3.7-liter DOHC I5 (242) Optional engine: None Layout: Front engine, four-wheel drive Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic Mileage (city/hwy): 15/20 Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); traction control; stability control; tire-pressure monitoring Weight (lb.): 4,700 Basic warranty: 3/36,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: hummer.com