Winner!
Hummer H3T Alpha
Despite the stiff competition in this year's test, it was the Hummer H3T Alpha, based largely on its test-leading showing in the Trail Performance category, and solid finishes in the rest of our scoring, that kept it in front of the pack throughout the test.
The H3T Alpha is Hummer's first crack at a real pickup truck and they have hit the mark for the four-wheeling enthusiast. Unlike the other vehicles in this test that were equipped with off-road packages, the H3T was built with the enthusiast in mind from the ground up. The only vehicle in this test to offer a 4:1 transfer case and locking front and rear differentials, the H3T Alpha led the test in tire size, approach angle, departure angle, ground clearance, and crawl ratio. The H3T Alpha was also the only vehicle with full-time four-wheel drive and real shackle recovery points. The H3T was the second least expensive in this test, offering good value for the money.
Distinctive in design and offering comfortable accommodations, the H3T is bigger than the midsize Suzuki Equator, yet smaller than the fullsize Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram, ensuring it fills a size niche that should be attractive to most consumers.
At the heart of any pickup is the bed, and here the H3T doesn't disappoint. With a deep, functional bed that has bedrails and a host of accessories that can be purchased from the aftermarket, as well as the dealer, the H3T is configurable to the needs of the buyer.
Most of all the Hummer H3T Alpha was the most fun vehicle to drive on the trail, yet still civilized around town, earning the points and the respect of our staff to become our 2009 Four Wheeler Pickup Truck of the Year.
What's Hot: Real recovery points, V-8 power, superior trail ability
What's Not: No six-speed (manual or auto), mediocre stereo, overall length
Our Take: 2009 Four Wheeler Pickup Truck of the Year
From the Logbook:
* "Needs more storage."
* "Where is GM's six-speed automatic?"
* "Long wheelbase really helps vehicle ride and stability."
* "Other than oddly long proportions, H3 looks good with a bed on it."
* "Nothing comes close to the way the Hummer handles the dirt."