2003 Hummer H1: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

AM General started selling civilian versions of the U.S. Army's runabout vehicle in 1992, and the 2003 edition arrives with only minor changes. Three years ago, AM General was purchased by General Motors. While we classify the Hummer H1 as a full-size sport-utility vehicle, it is actually a Class 3 truck. This means that it has a gross vehicle rating of more than 10,000 pounds and does not have to meet all safety guidelines mandated for smaller vehicles (for instance, it has no airbags). Two body styles are offered: a 4-dr wagon and a 4-dr "open top" with a soft cover for the roof and cargo area. Both seat four people in two front bucket seats and two rear bucket seats. The lone powertrain is a GM-built 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 and a 4-speed automatic transmission. ABS is standard as is a 4WD system that can be used on dry pavement. Newly optional for '03 are an electrically operated locking rear differential and leather upholstery with heated front seats.

COMPETITION

Our Best Buys, Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, are improved for 2003 with optional four-wheel steering and revised dashboards. These vehicles were new for 2000 and have improved with age. The all-new Ford Expedition gets bumped up to Best Buy status with revised styling, power 3rd-row seating, and the addition of an FX4 off-road edition.

Recommended are GMC Yukon and Toyota Sequoia. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish sticker prices were a bit lower.