HUMMER H2

The iconic HUMMER H2 entered this year with a raft of changes, delivering a more refined interior that combines luxury with HUMMER's legendary ruggedness, enhanced safety features and a more powerful engine coupled with a new, six-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain combination improves efficiency when compared with previous models. The H2 SUVs and H2 SUT continue as the distinct body styles of the lineup.

The new powertrain combination consists of a 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine, rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW)-an increase of about 20 percent over the previous engine-and a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-optimizing engine technologies, such as variable valve timing, and the six-speed's wide gear ratios, including a "tall" overdrive gear, enable the improved performance and efficiency over previous models.

One thing drivers will appreciate more than the improved performance on the road is experiencing it in the all-new interior. It features a completely redesigned instrument panel, new seats-including a full third-row seat for two passengers-new door trim panels, new controls, new rear-seat heating/air conditioning system, new rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system and a new family of premium radios. Also, a rear HVAC system is now standard.

A new center stack houses the climate controls and a new family of GM radios-including a standard premium Bose audio system and an available surround-sound system. The instrument panel also features new vents that enhance heating or cooling comfort throughout the vehicle-particularly for the second- and third-row seats. Other available comfort and convenience features include a navigation system, a rear-view camera system and heated windshield washer fluid. OnStar and XM Satellite Radio are standard.

The heart of the H2 is a new, 6.2L V-8 engine that uses variable valve timing technology to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. It is rated at 393hp and 415 pounds per foot of torque. The engine also features lightweight materials, including an aluminum cylinder block, which helps reduce the vehicle's overall mass.

Off-road acumen also was enhanced with the new powertrain system. The 6L80 transmission's tap up/tap down feature provides more control on grades. It also improves the off-road crawl ratio to approximately 39:1-an improvement of about 20 percent. Driving performance off the road or on is enhanced by a revised steering gear that has a quicker ratio and improved on-center returnability. The driving experience also is quieter and more refined, thanks to new, tuned air intake and exhaust systems.

Also new is a panic brake assist feature-the first application for a full-size GM truck or SUV-which detects emergency braking situations and maintains maximum brake pressure to help stop the vehicle more quickly and with more control. It is a standard feature on all H2 models. Also, the standard OnStar system now offers the optional Turn-By-Turn navigation system. Additional optional features that contribute to a safer driving experience include HUMMER's Rear Vision System-a rearview camera system-and a navigation system.