Some things, however, mirror the current model. The rear of the H2 continues the Hummer's characteristic four-window theme but its pull-down lift gate and pull-up rear window make loading easier. The design team put some serious thought into making the rear compartment more convenient by adding a three-tier loading area. The floor lifts to reveal a secure lighted sub-floor cargo stash for packages and equipment. The main floor can also be used for storage, as can the sides, which feature hammock-like netting that can hold yet more items and equipment, making packing for any excursion as organized as possible.
Another feature specific to the H2 is its full-across power-operated canvas sunroof allowing sunbathers to bask in both rows of the five-passenger compartment. "You get an open-air diving experience while still feeling the safe, protective security of riding in a reinforced steel cage," said Dean.
Similar to the Hummer, skid plates protect the entire underbody of the vehicle. Rock-slider skid plates are on the front and rear sides, along with approach and departure skid plates. "The skid plates all around the vehicle are for function not fashion," said Dean. "They are going to protect all the pieces down below form being ripped apart and allow the driver to experience why a Hummer truly starts where the road ends."
One of the current Hummers most appreciated assets is its formidable suspension. GM decided to enhance the H2's off-road experience by developing an all-new rear suspension. The new four-wheel all-independent suspension keeps each wheel from affecting the other on off-road applications. On the highway it provides for a smoother ride and better handling than a straight-axle design. They tell us that it also improves the stability, capability, and ride harshness over uneven terrain. The capability part I'll have to decide for myself if the opportunity ever arises. Both front and rear suspensions are independent double wishbones with unequal-length A-arms, torsion bars, stabilizer bars, and long-travel, dual-rate coil over shocks with remote reservoirs.