General Motors Corp.'s HUMMER division extends their product lineup of exclusive Alpha models with the addition of the popular H3 mid size SUV on the product range. The HUMMER H3 Alpha is set to roll out in markets all around the world beginning this summer. But before that, HUMMER will first display the H3 Alpha at the upcoming 2007 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) early this April. The H3 Alpha offers customers a powerful power plant, unique interior and exterior features, and bunch of exclusive packages in and out.
According to a HUMMER official press release, "The H3 Alpha is the second member of HUMMER’s exclusive Alpha series, representing the pinnacle of performance, both off the road and on it. It comes with a new, 5.3L V-8 engine that delivers 295 horsepower (224 kW)* and 317 lb.-ft. of torque (438 Nm)*. It is partnered with a four-speed automatic transmission and enables a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) – an increase of more than 33 percent over other H3 models."
"H3 Alpha is, simply, the ultimate HUMMER H3. It delivers all of H3's renowned off-road capability, but with enhanced performance that is suited to a variety of lifestyles." said Martin Walsh, HUMMER General Manager.
The H3 Alpha retains the bold, boxy, and rugged body styling of H3 models, highlighted by the pronounced seven-slot grille, large wheels, front bumper, aggressive fender flares, and wide side view mirrors similar to Jeep Mirror that is installed on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, one of the H3's competitor in the SUV segment. A Chrome Appearance package is available for H3 Alpha, which include 16-inch chrome wheels, 4.10 rear axle ratio, prominent Alpha tailgate badge, horn pad badge, and embroidered front headrests with the “Alpha” badge.
On the inside, the H3 Alpha offers and elegant interior along with a host of new standard safety features including child safety locks for the rear doors and head curtain side air bags. The H3 Alpha retains the other safety features of the H3 base model including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system; Four-wheel antilock brakes with traction control; Dual front air bags with Passenger Sensing System; Tire pressure monitoring system; Vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility; LATCH ((Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) rear child seat anchors; and the Rear Vision system that uses a camera to allow the driver to have a view on the objects behind the vehicle.
At the heart of the HUMMER H3 Alpha is a powerful 5.3-liter V8 engine that pumps out a maximum of 295 horsepower (224 kW) and produces 317 lb.-ft. (438 Nm) amount of peak torque. The engine belongs to GM's legendary small-block V8, noted for its powerful performance while providing fuel efficiency and lower exhaust emissions.
A Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission completes the powertrain package for the H3 Alpha. About the performance, the H3 Alpha H3 Alpha to can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8 seconds, and offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
About the Author
Lisa Ziegler is a 29-year old native of Waldport, Oregon and is currently working as a senior research analyst in a top Automotive Research Consultancy firm.
