2006 Hummer H3 First Drive

Driving Impressions The 2006 Hummer H3 includes quick steering, a throttle and brake pedal that are well modulated to increase power or decrease speed, and little to no body roll in its everyday ride. Despite the fact that it takes more than ten seconds to accelerate to 60 mph, it feels capable around town.

The 2006 Hummer H3 set a poor first impression when I stepped up to get behind the wheel. Its rock rails are protection for side damage only and do not provide a flat surface to accommodate foot placement for assistance with the long step up. Nor is there a grab handle of any type (either overhead or at the A-pillar) for the driver, and the steering wheel does not provide an adequate anchor. Front seat passengers get a single overhead handle, and rear outboard passengers have two options – a grab handle overhead and an assist handle positioned appropriately on the B-pillar.

Once inside, the interior is modern and attractive, based on the Chevrolet Colorado but with materials that are pleasantly upscale. Of note are the large control knobs, with visually and tactilely appealing textured rims on the surface of the knobs. Front seats are comfortable, but without the Luxury Package that brings power seat controls, taller passengers are at a disadvantage for driving due to the low roofline. Rearward vision is compromised by the small rear glass and by the tailgate-mounted spare tire that cuts visibility. Additionally, while short passengers benefit from the tall seating position, the steering wheel lacks a telescoping feature and there aren’t any power adjustable foot pedals, which means the steering wheel and driver’s airbags are closer than some would prefer. However, the passenger cabin is spacious overall, with headroom and rear-seat legroom that matches most of its competitors. But the Hummer H3 provides below-average cargo room for the stowage of gear and goods.

The H3 handles like it’s smaller than it is with quick steering, a throttle and brake pedal that are well modulated to increase power or decrease speed, and little to no body roll in its everyday ride. Despite the fact that this 4,700-lb. SUV takes more than ten seconds to accelerate to 60 mph, it feels capable around town. At speed on the highway, you will need to plan your passes in advance for safe distance.

Although the H3’s short wheelbase and underbody dynamics made it skip along dry washboard like a pebble skimming a pond, it shines when the going gets tough. Its gearing; locking differential; angles of approach, departure, and breakover; tall tires; underbody shields; and skid plate protection all contribute to make this a great four-wheeler, with capabilities that will take it into the wilds far beyond many of its class competitors. Its width, however, can be a liability in tight spots, such as the 4WD trails of wooded New England.