2009 Hummer H3T

Yell the word "HUMMER" in a crowded room, and you're likely to get strong reactions. However, as if learning from its H2 SUT (a supposed pickup truck) experience, Hummer has birthed the new H3T and it offers a real truck bed (in fact, it's an entirely new bed design with four integrated storage bins molded into the bed walls and will also offer a bed rail system, just like the GMT 900 pickups). To make this happen, Hummer created a completely new platform, lengthening the wheelbase 22.3 inches over that of its H3 sibling. That length allowed exterior designers to reduce the rear-door intrusion so rear-passenger ingress and egress are vastly improved; but from the B-pillar forward, it's all H3.

The midsize pickup will offer the same 3.7-liter I-5 and all-aluminum 5.3-liter V-8 engine options as its sibling does with close pricing.

We had the chance to go on a shakedown run with the H3T on some of the more serious 4x4 trails in Moab, Utah, as well as wring it out on local highways. As you might expect, Hummer didn't cut corners on true slow-go trail capability, now offering front and rear locking differentials (a first in the class), an ultra-low-range transfer case, 32-inch tires, amazing approach and departure angles, and a long list of optional accessories. Our test unit featured 33-inch BFG Mud Terrain tires (making it a bit loud at speed), a front brush guard, roof lights, and a black diamond-plate cover (able to hold 800 pounds), so it wasn't exactly stock. Still, it crawled up rock steps, ran through sand washes, and navigated steep ledges with confidence and capability to spare. With the push-button front and rear lockers on, it acted like a tractor on the trail.

On the road, the extra wheelbase and corresponding weight helped settle the chassis nicely (especially compared with the shorter H3). The shocks and spring rates have been changed slightly, along with the steering ratio. The former is well done, but the latter is still a bit off. The turning circle is uncomfortably wide, and at highway cruising it would've been nice to have a faster, firmer feel. Of course, this isn't a sports car, but this chassis seems good enough to balance a quicker ratio. Now if Hummer would just hurry up with the two-mode hybrid or diesel models, it might have something to crow about.