2009 Hummer H3

NEW FOR 2009:

- New H3T midsize truck model

- Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, rearview camera system, and hill start assist

- Front locking differential added to Off-Road Adventure Package

For 2009, the Hummer H3 line-up now includes the H3T pickup truck, with Crew Cab body and five-foot (1.5-metre) bed, and with an overall size that slots it between a full-size and midsize truck. Other changes include available Bluetooth, a rearview camera system, hill start assist, and a front locking differential on the Off-Road package.

The H3 and H3T come with a choice of two engines: a 3.7-litre inline five-cylinder, and 5.3-litre V8 in the "Alpha" series. The 3.7-litre bases with a five-speed manual that can be optioned to the four-speed automatic that's the sole choice on the V8. All models are four-wheel drive.

Features on the H3 include 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, recovery hooks, front bucket seats, 60/40 divided rear seat, CD stereo, roof rack side rails, rubberized cargo floor area, cruise control, keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power mirrors, deep-tinted glass, three auxiliary 12-volt power outlets, and OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation.

The H3T adds removable tailgate and under-bed spare tire.

Available options include a Z85 Heavy-Duty Handling and Trailering Package; Off-Road Adventure, with 4.03:1 low-range gearing, 33-inch tires, locking front and rear differentials, and specifically-tuned shocks; and the H3X Package, with chrome fuel filler door, 18-inch chrome wheels, body-colour grille and bright roof crossbows. The H3T can be optioned with items such as removable and lockable bed-mounted storage boxes, bicycle chock, and bed extender.

The Hummer name has become synonymous with big, bulky vehicles, but the H3, which is based on the Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck platform, is relatively nimble, and can out-manoeuvre its larger H2 sibling and still hold its own on the roughest trails. The new H3T combines that off-road ability with the convenience of a truck box, for those who prefer a pickup.