2008 Hummer H2 SUT Review

The H2 is a large SUV that debuted in 2004. A SUV variant, the SUT (Sport Utility Truck), was released in 2005. The H2 is a scaled-down descendent of the original, military-inspired Hummer H1. It was nominated for "North American Truck of the Year" in 2003.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

When we first laid eyes on the Hummer H2 SUT, one thought popped into our heads: What exactly were they thinking? It trades interior space for a terribly small cargo bed. It drains more gas than an oil tanker, and has all the on-road grace of a M1 Abrams. Style-wise, the short bed makes the already contentious look of the H2 even stranger. Also, it costs nearly $60,000, making it more expensive than even the Escalade EXT. It certainly makes a statement, but we're not convinced that it's a positive one.

What's New For 2008:

The interior has been upgraded, as well as the engine. It now features a 393-hp V8. The inside features new seats, a third row, and a new dashboard. More standard safety features were added.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Hummer H2 SUT price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$61,585

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
NA/NA

Engine:
6.2L V8

Horsepower:
393@5700RPM

Torque:
415@4300RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/4WD-FT

Fuel Capacity:
32

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the H2 3 stars for mechanical quality and 3.5 stars for design. Problems with the H2 include failing AC, failing OnStar, inaccurate fuel gauges, closed fuel nozzles, water leaks, transaxle leaks and faulty keyless entry. It's been recalled eight times for issues including failing wiper motors, fracturing O-rings and cracking brake components. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. The H2's safety has been considerably upgraded for 2008. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Significantly improved interior
+ Powerful engine
+ Fun off-road experience

Cons
- Near useless truck bed
- Overpriced
- So huge the EPA doesn't rate fuel consumption

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Cadillac Escalade EXT costs a couple thousand less and adds a DVD player, but has much less towing capacity. A fully-loaded Chevrolet Avalanche costs far, far less, but has 80 less hp and lacks a moonroof. A decked-out Ford Explorer Sport Trac costs about half as much, but has 100 less hp and lacks a moonroof.

What Others Are Saying:

"The new pickup-truck variation on the gas-hungry behemoth is great for off-road driving. But for other uses, it's hard to justify the price" - BusinessWeek

"I was not sad when they took this car away, and I won't be sad if I don't drive another. The build was very good on the car, and I appreciated the little things like a power rear window, but I just can not think of a single reason I would ever want to drive this car again. Unless it was to go to a GreenPeace rally and I was in the mood for a fight. Maybe not even then." - Jason On Cars

"With its rugged good looks and incredible off-road capabilities, the HUMMER H2 SUT has brought a whole new level of capability and flexibility to the marketplace." - Top Speed

Read more about the 2008 Hummer H2 SUT at the Hummer manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, March 5, 2008 - Email to a friend

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