General Motors Corp.'s (GM) HUMMER division got something to offer for British auto enthusiasts this coming week. The Detroit-based automaker will bring the popular HUMMER H3 in dealer showrooms across the UK. To adapt in the driving standards of the country, GM will offer a right hand drive (RHD) version of the HUMMER H3 mid size SUV that will roll out in the country starting this summer.
In an opening ceremony held at the Bauer Millett HUMMER facility in Manchester, England, Bob Lutz, GM Vice chairman and Global Product Development launched a prototype HUMMER H3 model with right hand drive configuration. In addition, he also commented: “HUMMER’s iconic design and unparalleled off-road capabilities appeal to a wide audience globally. We are determined to build upon the brand’s unique recognition in Europe and especially here in the UK”.
Based on General Motor's GMT345 vehicle platform, the HUMMER H3 features more compact overall dimension compared to the HUMMER H2 model. The body length measures 186.7 inches, and 85.5 inch width. The H3's wheelbase measures 111.9-inch long. Outside, the HUMMER H3 is equipped with HUMMER's signature 7-slot louvered grille along with other exterior parts including round headlamps, and vertical lines in the rear and side of the vehicle, embossed skid plate, GM tail pipe, 16- or 18-inch large alloy wheels, and rectangular windows. These features of the HUMMER H3 shows off the traditional HUMMER design cues for on- and off-road vehicles. Can’t get enough? The HUMMER H3 also offers numerous optional equipments for the UK peeps. These include trailering package, trailer hitch receiver cover, chrome brush grille guard, chrome tubular assist step, rocker panel protector, splash guards, and hitch mounted bike carrier, side window deflectors, just to name the few.
Moving on the inside, the H3 is equipped with luxurious and comfortable bucket seats for a maximum of five persons. All seats found on the HUMMER H3 have leather appointments along with double-stitched "French" seams and bunch of interior inserts and piping options to choose from. In addition, a density foam and soft bolsters are also included for additional traveling comfort as well as 60/40 split rear seats that can be folded down to add up to the vehicle's cargo space. Other standard or optional features include sliding glass sunroof, all-season floor mats and cargo mats, fabric cargo area liner, and side protector cover.
The HUMMER H3 with right hand drive (RHD) configuration will arrive in UK dealerships equipped with General Motors’ monstrous Vortec 3.7-litre (3464 cc) engine with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing. The engine is capable of delivering 242 hp (164 kW) at 5600 rpm and 242 lb-ft (305 Nm) amount of peak torque at 2800 rpm.
Compared to other HUMMER models, the H3 is available with either manual or automatic gearboxes, the first model to have one. Customers can choose between the five-speed manual transmission or the Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission powering the four wheels. GM's StabiliTrak stability control system (ESC) is available for the H3 as a standard component.
Watch out for new GM press releases for the manufacture's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the HUMMER H3 right hand drive model.
By: Noah Scott