2007 Hummer H3x Review

Specifications

HUMMER Offers Some OEM Personalization for Popular New H3

It hasnt even been a year since the new “budget” HUMMER H3 went on sale, but nevertheless unveiled a new variation dubbed the H3x at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show last month, and is getting ready to introduce it to Chicago auto fans shortly.

Of course, this news may cause some dismay to those who expected more from the brand at the first two auto shows of the year. After all, a pickup truck version based on the stunning H3T Concept has long been rumored, and now all the talk revolves around an H4; smaller and set to do battle with Jeeps all-new Wrangler (TJ). But barring a surprise at the Chicago show, anything this exciting will have to wait until New York in April, or next November when the L.A. show moves to a new time slot. Or, its possible one of the European shows could get one of these all-new HUMMERs, being that our friends across the Atlantic are warming up to the go-anywhere nameplate. For now, however, all HUMMER fans have to look forward to are two special edition H2s (see automotive news section of this website for January 1, 2006 - Opinion: Two Rare Hummers on the Way), and this H3x styling treatment.

Based off of the H3 Street Concept that was unveiled at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas last November, the H3x will be a 2007 model targeting HUMMER buyers looking to spice up their ride with an even bolder customized appearance package.

“The H3x enables buyers to enjoy the appearance of a personalized, accessorized truck available directly from the factory,” commented Susan Docherty, HUMMER general manager. “Its intended for those who want to make a personal style statement and differentiate themselves from other H3 owners.”

What upgrades differentiate the H3x from the regular H3? The H3x starts out Luxury package equipped, and adds chrome tube steps, chrome appearance package and chrome fuel door. A body-color grille replaces the chrome unit, making the new chrome brush guard stand out more prominently.

The H3x also gets a body-color spare tire cover with a unique chrome embellishment featuring a HUMMER appliqué, plus an exclusive wheel, centre cap and tire package.

On the inside, added to the luxury package components, embroidered headrests add a touch of exclusivity.

A choice of eight exterior colors and three leather interiors can be had, just like the regular H3, plus an assortment of dealer add-ons are also available.

Is the H3x enought to keep people talking about HUMMER, and especially its new H3? It seems that, despite the dark doom and gloom cloud that is being raining on GM these days, the automakers off-road brand is doing fairly well with its newest model. If HUMMER manages to squeeze out the aforementioned pickup truck, and maybe the Wrangler-sized H4, plus a much-needed hybrid electric model, based on the two-mode system that recently was introduced in the all-new Chevy Tahoe, a vehicle that shares its general architecture with the HUMMER H2, then it might just offer enough variety to make for a complete brand.

This is important for HUMMER, as its very survival revolves around beating Jeep at its own game, more or less, and Jeep plays heavily in the entry-level side of the business, with only two of its vehicles, the Grand Cherokee and new Commander, competing directly with HUMMERs new H3 and H2 respectively. Jeep showed a concept a couple of years ago, the Rescue, that would target HUMMERs H1 Alpha if produced, while its Gladiator, expected to be introduced in production trim at some point, would be the H3 pickup trucks likely opponent. Am I the only one seeing a major HUMMER/Jeep rivalry starting up here? Its not just simple competitiveness either, but a deep-rooted grudge that began when HUMMER won the right to use the seven-slat grille after a long court battle - AM General, HUMMERs owner (GM merely owns marketing rights), was once owned by American Motors Corporation (AMC) which also owned Jeep, before being sold to Chrysler Group.

Anyway, HUMMER needs to increase its model lineup by more than just three (two in Canada as the H1 Alpha is no longer available here), and by more than merely offering special editions and styling packages. No doubt, however, the H3x will be popular among H3 buyers when it goes on sale in dealerships across the country in mid-2006. Prices and Canadian specific features will be made available closer to the launch date.