← Hummer H2 · 2003-2009 · GMT820

Hummer H2 Sole Generation

Suburban frame, Hummer body. 6.0L V8 then 393-hp 6.2L. Cultural icon of mid-2000s excess.

Verdict
C
BHP
316-393 bhp
0–60
8.5 s
Top speed
100 mph
MPG
10.0 mpg
Used
$18,000-$48,000

Modified GMT820 platform — Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL frame with shorter wheelbase and unique bodywork. Engine progression: Vortec LQ4 6.0L V8 (316 hp / 360 lb-ft, 2003-2007) with 4L65-E four-speed automatic; Vortec L92 6.2L V8 (393 hp / 415 lb-ft, 2008-2009) with 6L80 six-speed automatic. Full-time AWD with BorgWarner 4493 two-speed transfer case (2.64:1 low range). Locking rear differential standard, locking front differential optional. Air suspension at the rear (load-leveling), conventional coils front. SUT pickup version added 2005 with mid-gate divider between cabin and bed. Standard equipment from 2008+ included Bose audio, leather, navigation, and (rarer) DVD entertainment system. Hummer H2 fuel consumption was its most notorious attribute — EPA didn't rate the H2 because at over 8,500 lb GVWR it was exempt; real-world mileage typically 10-12 mpg combined. Production at AM General Mishawaka. Total H2 production approximately 152,000 cars (peaking 2003 at ~35k, declining to ~5k for 2009). Killed mid-2009 with the brand. Original list prices $50,000-$70,000 across the run.

Strengths

  • 393-hp 6.2L L92 V8 (2008-2009)
  • Genuine off-road capability with locking diffs
  • Cultural icon status of the mid-2000s
  • Distinctive styling (no other SUV looks like it)
  • Cheap depreciation-bombed pricing

Weaknesses

  • 10 mpg combined fuel economy (notorious)
  • Heavy curb weight (~6,400 lb)
  • GVWR over 8,500 lb means no EPA rating (lots of state-by-state implications)
  • Brand dead since 2009 — service infrastructure thin
  • Insurance costs significant
  • Polarising public perception

Notable tech

  • Vortec L92 6.2L V8 (393 hp, 2008-2009)
  • Six-speed 6L80 automatic (2008+)
  • BorgWarner 4493 two-speed transfer case
  • Locking rear differential standard
  • Locking front differential optional
  • Rear air suspension (load-leveling)

Common issues

  • Air suspension air-spring leaks (rear)
  • Locking differential actuator failures
  • Active fuel management lifter failures (LQ4/L92 V8)
  • Cooling system thermostat housing failures
  • Climate control HVAC blend door failures

Used-market budget

$28,000

2003-2007 LQ4 6.0L cars $18-30k. 2008-2009 L92 6.2L cars $30-42k. SUT pickup variants slight premium. Clean low-mile 2009 examples $42-48k+.