2003 Hummer H2 in North Charleston, SC - $18,335

As the second vehicle in the HUMMER portfolio, the body-on-frame H2 takes the rugged characteristics of the H1 and refines them, adding more creature comforts. Its extreme exterior design makes sure the H2 is readily identifiable as a HUMMER. While the H2 is smaller than the military-spec derived H1, it boasts a wheelbase seven inches longer than a Chevrolet Tahoe.

Available in a four-door hardtop, the HUMMER H2 SUV is built for General Motors by AM General in its Mishawaka, Ind., manufacturing facility. The H2 is equipped with a GM-sourced 6.0L V8 engine joined to a heavy-duty Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic transmission. A sophisticated powertrain-integrated Borg-Warner two-speed electrically controlled full-time 4WD system delivers torque to all four wheels.

For 2006, H2 introduces a new special edition with a Pacific Blue exterior, body color fender molding, unique rocker molding with an integrated assist step, 17-inch polished forged aluminum wheels, carbon fiber interior accents and a lower-profile roof-mounted light bar. It also has a new rear-vision system with a rearview-mirror mounted camera that features a 2-by-2 inch screen that slides out when the vehicle is in reverse -- a GM first.

In addition, the special edition has a heated windshield wiper system with warm fluid that removes snow, ice and debris. Finally, the special edition offers a rear-seat DVD system with dual headrest-mounted viewing screens.

On the road, the H2 is strong, smooth and responsive at speed. The result is a very reassuring driver experience -- on or off-road. Extensive use of heavy duty components, thicker gauge steel for the body and other massively sized components make the H2 worthy of the HUMMER name.

Suspension hardware consists of an independent front with torsion bars, 46 mm monotube gas shocks, 35.9 mm front stabilizer bar and a five-link variable-rate coil spring rear with a solid axle, 46 mm monotube gas shocks and 30 mm stabilizer bar.

Special underbody protection is added, including large skid plates and a one-inch diameter tubular steel ladder-type shield that protects the transmission and exhaust systems. A third, high-tensile strength galvanized steel shield protects the transfer case. The fuel tank has its own heavy plastic shield designed to absorb abrasions and hits that would otherwise contact the tank.

With its standard tires and short front and rear overhangs, the H2 has a 39.8-degree approach and 35.9-degree departure angle. Large wheelhouses and lots of wheel travel permit the H2 to go places mere SUVs would fear to tread!

Inside the cabin, the "extreme" theme meets refinement and civility. Engineers placed a high priority on interior comfort and convenience for the H2 and the fruit of their work is evident. Although the theme of the interior is rugged, the ease of use, positioning and location of displays and controls are user-friendly and world class.

The cabin is airy and roomy for all occupants. Second row passengers enjoy a 60/40 split folding setup with high seat backs for maximum adult comfort. A third-row single passenger seat is optional.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 122.8; overall length: 190.0; width: 81.2; height: 78.5 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: Vortec 6000 6.0L V8 -- 325 hp at 5,200 rpm and 365 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed electronically-controlled automatic.

Cargo capacity: 86.6 cu. ft.

Payload capacity: 2,200 lbs.

Towing capacity: 6,700 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, locking rear differential, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and dynamic rear proportioning, PASSlock anti-theft system, automatic headlamp control, power automatic door locks, daytime running lights, front & rear tow hooks, HomeLink universal garage door opener, single-wheel traction control, remote keyless entry, skid plates - engine, fuel tank and transfer case, external tire carrier, full-size spare tire and OnStar communications system with Safe & Sound service plan.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 HUMMER H2 SUV starts from $52,980. Destination charges add $875.

As tested

2006 HUMMER H2 SUV

Exterior color: Pewter

Interior color: Ebony

Tire make/model: BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A

Tire size: LT315/70R17

Base price $52,980

Destination charges $ 875

1SC Luxury package $ 4,240

Total as tested $58,095

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