Vehicle Tests > 2007 4WD of the Year

Sand
Luckily the sand's not too soft at Stockton beach for the Hummer feels like it could struggle if that was the case. As it is, it copes well enough but it's certainly no fun machine, as it requires lots of throttle and high engine speeds to keep the momentum up. Low range is far too low to be useful, so high-range first and second is the way to go. High-range third is possible but watch that the engine doesn't bog down, as the change from third back to second isn't lightning fast.

Inside
Comfortable, leather-clad seats with electric adjust are positives, not so the lack of a driver's footrest and the closed-in feeling of the cabin. The rear seat isn't the most comfortable either, as it's too close to the floor, too tight for three adults, and there's no headrest for the centre passenger. Small cargo area as well.

Incidentals
For reasons that escape us, the Hummer's maximum tow capacity is a miniscule 1360kg and the payload is only a shag over an equally poor 400kg. We also don't like the fact that the rear door opens the wrong way for Australia, or the key operated fuel cap. And, we aren't so sure about those monster recovery points. They look tough but the fact the bolts that hold them are in tension, not shear, isn't too reassuring.

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Summary
In many ways, the Hummer doesn't deserve to finish in seventh place in this contest. Right out of the showroom it's trail capable, it's also surprisingly refined, feels well built and rides well on crook roads. However it's (badly) let down by the poor onroad performance of the engine while its ordinary payload and towing capacity make it more of a pretender then a real contender.

SPECS
Base price: $57,990
Price as tested: $57,990 + on-road costs
Engine: 3.7-litre inline five-cylinder petrol
Gearbox: Five-speed manual
4WD System: Full-time
Low Range: Yes
Claimed max power: 180kW @ 5600rpm
Claimed max torque: 328Nm @ 4600rpm
Weight: 2245kg
Average fuel consumption on test*: 19.4 litres/100km
Fuel tank capacity: 87 litres
Touring range**: 398km

*Test included a high percentage of low-range driving plus beach work and is higher than you would expect for onroad use only.
** Based on test average fuel consumption, fuel tank capacity and a 50km safety margin.

BEST POINTS: Offroad ability, surprising refinement, ride quality

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