2009 Hummer H3T

2009 Hummer H3T

2009 Hummer H3T

Hummer expands its model range with the addition of an H3T crew-cab pickup aimed at the "active-lifestyle" market. Based on the midsize H3 SUV, the T echoes the company's H2 SUT, which is an open-bed version of the full-size H2 SUV.

Compared to the H3, H3T rides a 22-inch-longer wheelbase and stretches nearly two feet longer overall (134.2 inches and 210.3 inches, respectively), allowing room for a five-foot cargo bed that is separate from the five-passenger crew cab. As such, the H3T is nearly identical in size and concept to the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. By contrast, the H2 SUT is seven inches shorter overall, with a three-foot bed integrated with the body that can be expanded to six feet by folding down a "midgate" separating the cargo area from the passenger compartment.

Powertrains for the H3T carry over from the H3. The standard 242-horsepower 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder engine is offered with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission; the optional 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 comes only with the automatic. Full-time 4WD (which can be used on dry pavement) is standard, and Hummer claims the H3T is the only midsize pickup to offer locking front and rear differentials. Available safety features include curtain side airbags, ABS, StabiliTrak antiskid system, and OnStar assistance system.

Hummer says the H3T's cargo bed, which is 44 inches wide at the wheelhouses and 50 inches wide above them, comes with a bed-rail cargo management system and is designed to accommodate a four-wheel ATV and other "popular outdoor necessities." Optional bed accessories include removable and lockable storage boxes, chocks for bicycles and motorcycles, and a bed extender. Aftermarket companies have been tapped to produce additional add-ons, such as bed dividers, flat and slanted hard bed covers, and a winch.

The H3T is scheduled to go on sale in early September 2008 as a 2009 model. Prices have not yet been announced, but the company indicated they would be close to current H3 SUV prices, which start at about $31,000.