Hummer

The Upside of Hummer: Where the Brand Shines (and Shined)

Both the original Hummers and the new EV models share some common strengths. Off-road capability is paramount, with even the H2 and H3 offering more off-road prowess than most SUVs. The imposing size and design of Hummers have always made a statement, providing a commanding presence on the road. The new Hummer EVs add blistering performance to the mix, thanks to their powerful electric motors. They also boast cutting-edge technology, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, Super Cruise hands-free driving, and innovative features like CrabWalk.

The Downside of Hummer: Where it Falls Short (and Fell Short)

The original Hummers, particularly the H2, were notorious for their poor fuel economy, huge size (making them difficult to maneuver and park), and questionable practicality for everyday use. They were often seen as symbols of excess and environmental insensitivity. The new Hummer EVs, while electric, still face criticism for their enormous weight and size, which impact their overall efficiency. The price of both old and new Hummers is also a significant barrier for most buyers. Furthermore, the original Hummers suffered from spotty reliability, and the long-term reliability of the new EVs remains to be seen.

Hummer's Model Lineup: From Military Roots to Electric Future

• Hummer H1 (1992-2006): The civilian version of the military Humvee, the H1 is the most rugged and capable of the original Hummers. It's a true off-road beast, but its on-road manners are crude, and its fuel economy is abysmal.

• Hummer H2 (2003-2009): Based on a modified Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon platform, the H2 retained the Hummer's imposing style but offered a more comfortable interior and improved on-road performance. However, it was still very large, inefficient, and faced criticism for its "militaristic" image.

• Hummer H3 (2006-2010): The smallest of the original Hummers, the H3 was based on the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon platform. It offered a more manageable size and better fuel economy, but its off-road capabilities weren't as impressive as its larger siblings.

• Hummer EV Pickup (2022-Present): A large, four-door pickup truck with a powerful electric drivetrain, impressive off-road capabilities, and a host of innovative features.

• Hummer EV SUV (2024-Present): An SUV version of the Hummer EV, offering similar capabilities and technology in a more enclosed package.

The Original Hummers: A Legacy of Excess

The Hummer H1, H2, and H3 are often viewed as symbols of a bygone era, representing a time of cheap gas and a fascination with oversized SUVs. While they have their fans, they also faced criticism for their environmental impact and impracticality. Today, they are considered by many to be outdated dinosaurs, but they retain a certain nostalgic appeal for some. They can be had for relatively cheap on the used market, but be prepared for high running costs for fuel and repairs.

Buying a Used Hummer (H1, H2, or H3): Proceed with Caution

The used market is the only place to find the original Hummers. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely essential. Service records are crucial to ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained. Research the specific model and year for any known reliability issues. Be prepared for high running costs, including fuel, insurance, and repairs. The H1 in particular should be carefully inspected, as they are often sought after for off-road use.

Buying a Used Hummer EV: Too Early to Tell

The used market for Hummer EVs is still very young. Given the high initial purchase price and limited production, used examples are likely to be expensive and relatively rare. As with any new and complex technology, long-term reliability is still an unknown. A thorough inspection and close examination of service records (if any) are essential.

The Hummer Dealership Experience:

Original Hummer dealerships no longer exist. Hummer EVs are sold through select GMC dealerships. The sales experience may vary depending on the dealership, but you can likely expect a more premium experience compared to buying a typical GMC model. Be prepared for limited inventory and potentially high demand.

Clutsh's Take on Hummer

The Hummer brand has always been about extremes, from the rugged capability of the original H1 to the technological tour-de-force of the new EV models. The original Hummers are a product of their time, and while they may hold a certain nostalgic appeal, their practicality and efficiency are questionable. The new Hummer EVs are impressive in their performance and technology, but their size, weight, and price make them a niche product. Whether you're considering an original Hummer or a new EV, it's crucial to understand the brand's history, its strengths and weaknesses, and the potential costs and challenges of ownership. The Hummer EV is a bold statement, but it remains to be seen if it will be a sustainable success or a footnote in automotive history.

Hummer's Closest Competitors:

The original Hummers competed with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. The Hummer EV Pickup faces competition from the Rivian R1T, the Ford F-150 Lightning, and the Tesla Cybertruck. The Hummer EV SUV competes with the Rivian R1S, as well as high-performance electric SUVs from brands like Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.