But like all things, simple stats can't quantify true talent. When the road gets rough the H2 is truly in a class of few. It can scale a 60% grade without breaking a sweat and then negotiate a 40% side slope. While I didn't get the chance to take it up a 31 degree vertical, the limited 4x4 testing I did manage to fit in proved positive. Off the pavement the H2 felt confidence inspiring, ready to tackle anything that dared cross our path.
On pavement driving was another story. If you're looking for Acura MDX or BMW X5 handling keep driving. The Hummer, with its hydroformed modular 3-section fully-welded ladder-type frame, is optimal for off-road expeditions but just isn't capable of on-road gymnastics like these car-based machines. That said driven at sensible speeds it proved quite comfortable and adequate through the corners. Its 17-inch alloy rims are wrapped in BFGoodrich LT315/70R17 tires, a good on and off-road compromise. Its independent front suspension and 5-link variable-rate coil setup in the rear complimented the long wheelbase for a smooth and relatively comfortable ride. My test vehicle came equipped with the optional self-leveling rear air suspension package, even better. All in all the H2 was easy to drive through congested city traffic and a simple procedure to parallel park - up over the curb (12-inch maximum) and down the other side if all else fails.
Just like giant highway trucks the H2 incorporates engine braking to minimize break fade and wear while descending steep slopes. As expected it incorporates 4-wheel disc brakes plus standard 4-channel ABS, further assisted by dual piston calipers with Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP).
The sophistication continues inside the much larger cabin. Larger than the original Hummer? If you've ever been in one you'd know that this isn't hard. While gargantuan on the outside the H1 is close to claustrophobic from any of its four seats. The H2 on the other hand seats five in base form, while an optional third row seat can increase capacity to six (2/3/1). Why just one more person? The cargo area is partially consumed by the massive spare tire, reducing its capacity almost in half. Still I was able to pick up my 32-inch TV from the repair shop without any difficulty. Fold all the seats forward and total cargo volume achieves 2,451 L (86.6 cu ft), a phenomenal 800 L (28.3 cu ft) larger than the original Hummer's 1,651 L (58.3 cu ft) hauling capacity.
On pavement driving was another story. If you're looking for Acura MDX or BMW X5 handling keep driving. The Hummer, with its hydroformed modular 3-section fully-welded ladder-type frame, is optimal for off-road expeditions but just isn't capable of on-road gymnastics like these car-based machines. That said driven at sensible speeds it proved quite comfortable and adequate through the corners. Its 17-inch alloy rims are wrapped in BFGoodrich LT315/70R17 tires, a good on and off-road compromise. Its independent front suspension and 5-link variable-rate coil setup in the rear complimented the long wheelbase for a smooth and relatively comfortable ride. My test vehicle came equipped with the optional self-leveling rear air suspension package, even better. All in all the H2 was easy to drive through congested city traffic and a simple procedure to parallel park - up over the curb (12-inch maximum) and down the other side if all else fails.
Just like giant highway trucks the H2 incorporates engine braking to minimize break fade and wear while descending steep slopes. As expected it incorporates 4-wheel disc brakes plus standard 4-channel ABS, further assisted by dual piston calipers with Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP).
The sophistication continues inside the much larger cabin. Larger than the original Hummer? If you've ever been in one you'd know that this isn't hard. While gargantuan on the outside the H1 is close to claustrophobic from any of its four seats. The H2 on the other hand seats five in base form, while an optional third row seat can increase capacity to six (2/3/1). Why just one more person? The cargo area is partially consumed by the massive spare tire, reducing its capacity almost in half. Still I was able to pick up my 32-inch TV from the repair shop without any difficulty. Fold all the seats forward and total cargo volume achieves 2,451 L (86.6 cu ft), a phenomenal 800 L (28.3 cu ft) larger than the original Hummer's 1,651 L (58.3 cu ft) hauling capacity.