I'm just about planning on commiting to the H3. I'm a huge supporter of GM, follow their products and try to keep in the "know"..and I'm in the market for a mid size SUV. I've been the less than proud owner of a Mustang since I bought it new in 2003..a lot has changed, I've taken enough of the inpractical lack of space, winter driving experience, and got a pup whos getting a bit too big. Like most, I am also not at ease with the rising fuel prices..but I need the space in a vehicle, confidence in wintery backroad driving, and I can live without a Suburban..such has led me to the H3.

I've gone back and fourth between the H3 and Wrangler Unlimited Sahara/Rubi for awhile, but once getting aquianted with both..the H3 is feeling a little more "me." (The ability to lose the top and doors will be missed though)

So I'm looking at taking order of an '08 Hummer H3 within the following months (will likely be in Aug.) Not entirely sure if I will opt for the Adventure or Luxury Packages..hell, I'm still debating if i want the manual or auto trans. It'll be a daily driver for myself, a 22 year old. Not planning on posting it up on 24" wheels..probably not even looking into any lift right away. I just want something capable with potential to have some off-road fun out of the box..think im going to go with the base in black finish, black grill, tan leather interior, sunroof, lower fog lights, over cab running lights, and some black tube steps from wheel to wheel...we'll see how it goes.

Any recommendations? suggestions? You guys are the ones to ask, I'd imagine.

 

Adventure package. Alpha hasmore power and torque, I-5 seems to get a little better mileage. The guys with the 5 speeds all seem to really like it. Auto probably better for resale. For the daily driver, depending on the type of driving you do the auto tranny might be easier.

 

If you want to go offroad get the Adventure package and add-on the Luxury if you want (or the other way around). Either way, lose the tube steps. Those nerf bars will bend the first time you go offroad. Okay, maybe the second as the first time you'll be extra careful.

Ditto to what 3hummers said on the transmission.

 

ALPHA......

 

I second everything Alrock said. Get the Adv. Pkg. and Lux. Pkg. you'll find that you will need the rear locker once you go off roading a lot. The sunroof is very large so you may not miss that open top feeling. The interior of the H3 is so much better and more refined than that of a Jeep so your not giving up anything in fact you'll be happy with your purchase. Best bet for side steps is to buy the rock rails and than you can have easy removable steps that attach directly to them.

 

H3 adv./lux. package would be the only way to go . these things really stick to the road. good peice of mind.

 

I think you have a good overall plan. I agree that the tube steps/nerf bars are not a good idea, but if you like em, it's your truck.
Look at some good rockrails instead, but you decide.

Welcome and good luck. You may also consider a slightly used 2007 or 08, as I am sure many of the noid masses will be bailing from their SUVs based upon all the BS press hype about gas and gas prices? Might swing a great deal with full warranty????

 

I agree on the ADV Package and just add the LUX items that you want. See if the dealer will swap out the Nerf Bars for the Rock Rails, doubt it but it doesn't hurt to ask. Nice color choice too btw

 

Driven both and ended up with the Alpha, well worth it.