Given that SUVs are inherently less stable and more prone to rollover than passenger cars, due to their higher centre of gravity, it
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| The H3 gets 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic traction control, and GM's StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system all as standard equipment. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
makes good sense to supply customers with plenty of safety gear and crash protection equipment. With that in mind, the H3 receives 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic traction control, and GM's StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system all as standard equipment (StabiliTrak is only available with automatic transmission). Despite electronic oversight, should a crash occur, driver and front passenger airbags will soften cranial blows while optional side curtain airbags will absorb side-impact and rollover strikes to the head for those seated at all outboard positions. OnStar communications is also standard equipment, including a free one-year subscription.
Convenience-wise, the H3's cinderblock shape maximizes its payload area, which is accessed through a single rear door hinged on the driver's side so
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| The H3's cinderblock shape maximizes its payload area, which is accessed through a single rear door hinged on the driver's side. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
that when opened, loading from curbside is easier and safer than with many British- or Japanese 'utes that are designed to deal with a right-hand drive world. With the rear seats folded down, the wide-opening door reveals a squared-off stowage area with a stepped floor. What doesn't fit in the belly of the beast can be fastened to its standard equipment roof rails. Additional standard equipment includes fog lights, tire pressure monitoring, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power mirrors, power windows, power locks with remote entry, compass, outside temperature, rear wiper/washer, privacy glass and front and rear tow hooks. Optional largesse includes leather upholstery, heated 8-way power front seats, Monsoon audio with 6-disc in-dash CD, chrome trim bits and pieces and a Trailering Convenience package. When it comes to towing, the H3 is max-rated at 2,041 kg (4,500 lbs).
