2006 Hummer H2: Road Test

Archived Review

2006 Hummer H2 

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  • MSRP: $52,980 -$53,035
  • Invoice: $48,477 -$48,527

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Our road test for the 2006 Hummer H2 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Hummer H2 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Hummer H2, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Hummer H2 help you decide if a 2006 Hummer H2 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
4 4 5.1

Among the slowest big SUVs, doing 0-60 mph in about 10 sec by Hummer's claim. Acceleration fairly brisk at town speeds, but highway merging or passing takes patience. Transmission shifts smoothly, is usually prompt to kick down for more power. Towing capacity is 7000 lb.

FUEL ECONOMY

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
2 2 2.1

Over 8600-lb gross vehicle weight exempts H2s from EPA mileage-reporting program, but test wagon averaged just 10.7 mpg, test SUTs 10.4-10.7. H2 uses regular-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
5 5 5.8

A bit jittery over small bumps, can hobby-horse over big ones despite meaty tires and 3-ton heft. Little difference in ride between coil- and air-spring suspensions, though the latter's self-leveling feature helps with heavy hauling or towing.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
2 2 3.4

Massive weight, tall build mean marked cornering lean, though no worse than most large SUVs. Steering feels light at low speeds, yet maneuverability hampered by jumbo 43.5-ft turning circle (vs. Ford Expedition's 38.7-ft, for example). Not overly sensitive to crosswinds, despite blocky shape, but straightline stability still compromised by huge tires that tend to follow road grooves. Brake-pedal feel good in routine use, mushy in simulated emergency stops. Standard front tow hitch useful in guiding a trailer.

QUIETNESS

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
4 4 6.1

Some tire roar, even at moderate speeds. Marked wind noise above 65 mph. Engine noise well-muffled.

CONTROLS

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
5 5 5.8

Main gauge cluster comes from Chevrolet Tahoe, is unobstructed. Radio and climate controls sit near middle of wide dashboard, have cryptic markings. Available navigation/audio unit is a sensible touch screen design and not hard to learn. Cabin decor disappoints with abundant hard plastic moldings and "bug-eye" air vents that seem cut-rate at H2's price level.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
7 7 8.1

High step-up, but running boards available. Good head, leg, shoulder room, but steering wheel angles to right and may be too close for larger drivers. Visibility hindered by thick roof pillars, rear headrests, and spare tire that blocks much of rear window.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
6 6 7.2

Head room fine, but leg room tight if front seats are set more than halfway back. Seat itself comfortable, but too narrow for three adults despite H2's girth. Wagon's optional 3rd-row seat difficult to get to, suits one child. SUT's power midgate window useful for cabin ventilation.

CARGO ROOM

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
6 5 8

Wagon claims 86.6 cu ft, but load floor is high, and full-size spare tire weighing some 100 lb eats up a lot of space. Optional 3rd-row seat uses most of what's left. It tips or removes, and 2nd-row 60/40 seatbacks fold flat after seat bottoms are tipped forward. Still, H2 wagon can't match even compact SUVs for utility. SUT's midgate adds versatility, but sits several inches above cargo-bed level when folded, hampering slide-in loading of long objects. SUT spare tire mounts to massive swing-away rear carriage; tailgate very heavy, very high off ground. With split rear seat folded and midgate up, SUT has 30 cu ft of interior cargo room. Small-item storage subpar in both models.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
2 2 4.9

H2s are highly capable off-road and fairly civilized on-road. But the same money buys any number of less-exaggerated large SUVs with more interior room, comfort, practicality, refinement, and superior workmanship--and, often, better fuel economy.

Total Score

H2 wagon H2 SUT Class Average
43 42 56.5

Total Score: 43

Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
41
Average Score
56
High Score
66

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