2009 Hummer H2

NEW FOR 2009:

- 6.2-litre V8 adds E85 FlexFuel capability

- "Black Chrome" limited-edition model

- Standard Bluetooth hands-free connectivity

- Available second-row captains chairs, third-row seat storage, OnStar Destination Download, XM NavTraffic, power-tilting heated steering wheel, rear vision with "display on demand" inside mirror, 20-inch black chrome-clad wheels

- Exterior colours: Silver Ice Metallic and Sedona Metallic (limited editions)

Having undergone numerous changes for 2008, the Hummer H2 stays relatively steady for 2009, with FlexFuel capability, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and new available features, including second-row captain's chairs and a heated, power-tilt steering wheel that will be a late-availability addition.

The H2 is available as an SUV and as the SUT pickup version, both with a 6.2-litre V8 and six-speed automatic transmission. Both use full-time four-wheel drive with driver-selectable full locking electronic rear differential.

Features on the H2 include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, privacy glass, heated mirrors with driver's side auto-dimming, front and rear recovery hooks, roof rack side rails, full underbody and rocker skid plates, power sunroof, heavy-duty trailer package, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, cruise control, floor mats, driver information centre, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, remote starter, garage door opener, express-down windows, heated eight-way leather seats, heated 60/40 split-folding second-row seat, six-CD/MP3 stereo with XM satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, keyless entry, and OnStar with Turn by Turn Navigation.

The SUT adds Midgate with power drop glass and rubberized vinyl load floor.

Available options include a brush guard, rearview camera, 20-inch chrome wheels, third-row seat, off-road package, air suspension, navigation system and rear-seat DVD system.

Based on a shortened Suburban chassis, the Hummer has become a symbol of automotive excess; it's huge and heavy, and feels even larger with its tall sides and short window. It's as capable as claimed, able to handle a 40 per cent slope and ford through 610 mm of water, although most never go beyond the urban jungle. It's no secret that General Motors would like to sell the brand, so if you want one, now's the time, especially as prices drop considerably over the 2008 levels. It's too large to require fuel economy figures, but estimates run as high as 22 L/100 km (13 mpg Imp).