2003 Hummer H2

Pros: Comfort
Easy to drive
Off road capability

Cons: High Price
Thirsty for fuel
Hard to get in/out for some

Overview: The H2 is based on the Chevy Tahoe and it’s much more user friendly the big H1 I drove last year. That vehicle is so large and uncomfortable it’s almost impractical for day to day driving. The H2, on the other hand, may be one of the most comfortable vehicles I’ve had the pleasure to drive. More on that later. In terms of size, the H2 is actually taller than the H1 at 77.8 inches. It’s longer too at 189.8 inches. Compared to the Tahoe, it’s 3 inches taller and just over 2 inches wider. This is very deceptive because the shape of the vehicle gives the impression of being short, wide and tall. The H2 measures 9 inches shorter than the Tahoe. In spite of these measurements the H2 looks big and will scare some people off especially if they plan on using a parking garage at work, for instance. AM General had a hand in the Hummer H2 but it clearly has a strong GM influence. This is most evident when you’re behind the wheel and your faced with the standard issue GM dash and switchgear. As nice as it is to drive, the H2 is well suited for off roading with 10.5 inches of ground clearance with an approach angle of 41.7 degrees, and a departure angle of 38.1 degrees with the optional air suspension.

The driving experience:
The H2 is surprisingly easy to drive as long as you keep in mind that you’re taking up your full lane. In terms of steering and braking it feels just like a Tahoe which is not a bad thing. The H2 has a one-piece ladder type frame with independent suspension and coil springs in the rear. Large 17” wheel and a 122.8-inch wheelbase contribute to the smooth ride. Steering feels good and the brakes are smooth and sure. It’s easy to forget your driving such a large vehicle. It’s relatively short length makes the H2 fairly easy to park. Just keep in mind how tall the vehicle is.

Interior:
I mentioned the GM influence in terms of dash and switches. While a step up from a few years ago some of the interior pieces seem out of place in this class of vehicle. That’s a nice way of saying they look cheap. Hummer has hit a homerun though when it comes to seats. They’re wide and extremely comfortable. Both driver and passenger seats are fully power and heated. In the back there is a comfortable bench. 4 large adults will be very happy and 5 can ride in good comfort. A removable 3rd row seat is optional. Our H2 had leather seating surfaces with bun warmers. Love those heated seats. The Bose premium stereo features 9 speakers and sounds great. Speaking of sounds you’ll be surprised how quiet the H2 is. Our test vehicle was quieter than some cars I’ve driven. The seating position is high with an excellent view out. The downside is that the H2 is too high for some people. You really have to climb up to get it. Grandma will need a hand getting in. Dual zone climate controls will keep everyone comfy on a cold morning although it’s takes awhile to heat up the cabin. I guess that’s what the heated seats are for. There are several (4, I think) power outlets for laptops or whatever. The driver information center warns of icy conditions and you’ll find a compass with outside temp on the rearview mirror. The power outside mirrors are large. Open up the large rear door and you’ve got plenty of room for storing luggage, groceries or plants from Home Depot. The interior color was listed as ‘Wheat’ and looked nice.

Exterior:
Macho, that’s the word that comes to mind. The basic look is a lot like the H1. There is no mistaking that this is a Hummer. The military styling still turns heads. Our H2 had the optional chrome appearance package with chrome on the door handles and the outside mirror along with a brushed aluminum roof rack. The leather seats are also a part of this package and floor mats are also included to protect the carpeted floor. The appearance package also includes tubular steps and a dealer installed CD changer. The all-terrain tires on cast aluminum wheels complete the look. Our H2 was ‘Sunset Orange Metallic’It was kind of a Bronze color which I thought looked good. In fact, I only heard one negative comment on the H2’s looks. Everyone else liked it.

Under the hood:
Power comes from a Vortec 6.0 liter V8 with cast iron block and cast aluminum heads with sequential fuel injection. Output is listed at 316 HP with 360 pound feet of torque. This responsive engine moves the 6400 pound H2 to 60 MPH in an impressive 10.5 seconds. There is never a shortage of power. Although the rear axle ratio is 4.10 the engine loafs along at low RPM out on the highway. Would you believe 1800 RPM at 60? In spite of this, fuel economy is only around 10-12 MPG in town. The big hood tilts forward but the engine is buried down low and close to the firewall. I wouldn’t want to work on the H2’s engine. Given the state of the technology involved most owners will take it to a shop for repairs anyway. The 4 speed automatic transmission shifts silky smooth. The Electronic transfer case features full time 4WD with an electronic locking rear diff. Traction control is standard as is 4 wheel ABS with disc brakes all around.

Safety:
Dual front airbags, daytime running lights, Theft deterrent system, Battery rundown protection and rear door child lockout are all standard. You also get the Onstar communications system with 24 hour roadside assistance. Factory warranty is 3 years or 36,000 miles bumper to bumper

Price:
The base price for the H2 is $48,455. Price as tested: $51,990. Compared to the $116,000 H1 I guess you could say it’s cheap. Even so, Hummer states that the average buyer averages $150,000 in income. Most people will never own this vehicle. That’s a shame because it’s one of the world’s great vehicles.