2009 Hummer H3 (X, Alpha)

Hummer's H3 is the automaker's mid-size SUV first introduced for the 2006 model year. The H3 is built on a modified version of the GMT355 platform, which underpins the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon.

Starting at $30,000, the H3 is considerably less expensive than any previous Hummer model. In the first two months of availability, the H3 accounted for 74 percent of all Hummer sales.

The H3 comes in three trim levels: H3, H3x, and H3 Alpha. The H3x offers a number of chrome accessories standard, and is essentially a special edition model with extra standard features and a distinctive look. The H3 Alpha, meanwhile, has a much more powerful V8 engine and a higher price tag.

The entry-level H3 and the accessorized H3x model are powered by a 3.7-liter Atlas Vortec 3500 inline-five-cylinder engine. The powerplant delivers 242 horsepower at 5600 rpm, and 242 pound-feet of torque at 4600 rpm. Customers can chose from a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

The range-topping H3 Alpha is powered by a 5.3-liter V8 engine delivering 300 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 320 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. A four-speed automatic is the only gearbox offered. The H3x package can be combined with the H3 Alpha. The powerful V8 engine allows the Alpha to hit 60 mpg in under eight seconds.

Optional equipment on the H3 includes: off-road suspension, a fully-locking rear differential, a sunroof, an engine block heater, and a body color grille. Other accessories include a various grille guards, roof marker lamps, an off-road light bar, and a chrome hood louver, and various chrome wheel designs. A seven-speaker premium audio package and six-CD changer is standard on the Alpha and optional on the base model.

GM says the H3 will get 16 mpg in the city and 19-20 mpg on the highway.