2004 Hummer H1 in Verona, NJ - $141,000

Based on its legitimate military heritage, this big, brash American do-anything truck was engineered to navigate hazardous terrain, pass the impassable and survive grueling combat conditions for at least 12 years. This is not a plush SUV with a rugged look. The purpose-built HUMMER H1 is every bit the military vehicle from which it was derived. Even the civilian version is equipped to run in up to 30 inches of water like the one used by the Armed Forces and it delivers everything else as promised.

For 2006, the original HUMMER's legendary performance reaches a new level with the debut of the H1 Alpha. Delivering more power, more torque with enhanced on- and off-road capability and significantly improved fuel economy, the new HUMMER SUV represents performance taken to its ultimate extension.

Offered in both Open Top and Wagon models, the H1 Alpha is powered by the sophisticated Duramax 6600 V8 turbo-diesel. With a 46-percent increase in horsepower over the previous 6.5L Optimizer Turbo-Diesel engine, the H1 Alpha communicates its tremendous torque to the ground through a five-speed Allison M74 1000 automatic transmission.

Stout and durable, the Allison automatic is also used in medium and heavy-duty truck applications. It features a tow/haul model that adjusts shift patterns for optimal performance when the vehicle is towing or carrying heavy loads. The Allison unit aids the H1 Alpha in severe maneuvers with features such as improved drivetrain braking and a crawl ratio of 45:1, an increase of 22 percent. The full-time all-wheel drive transfer case for the H1 Alpha is a New Venture Gear Model 242.

Other upgrades and enhancements include larger-diameter brake rotors, bolstered steering gear, redesigned geared wheel hubs featuring a helical-cut gear set, a new Alpha shield logo which appears on a badge just above the rear bumper, a Duramax badge adorns the front driver's side corner of the body, surrounded by a redesigned brush guard. The wheels were freshened, featuring a new, brighter finish.

On or off road, the H1 Alpha is always in complete control. Strong and powerful, yet very driver-friendly (even when the terrain is not), the big HUMMER is surprisingly easy to drive and maneuver.

The H1 Alpha frame is a steel box section with five cross members. The H1 Alpha also features a 72-inch track width for extreme stability. A 72-degree approach and 37.5-degree departure angles add to its ability to travel over uneven, hostile terrain.

The long wheelbase and wide stance of the H1 is complemented by 18 inches of ground clearance at the highest point -- two inches more than the previous H1 -- in order to provide additional clearance for the body panels from the wheels and from potential obstacles on trails.

Inside the cabin, four occupants enjoy plenty of headroom, although legroom is a bit snug. Displays and controls are straightforward and in-your-face for quick viewing during all types of maneuvers. Creature comforts such as air conditioning, Delco sound system, power door locks, windows, steering and brakes are standard.



Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 130.0; overall length: 184.5; width: 86.5; height: 77.0 wagon, 79.0 open top -- measurements in inches.

Engine: Duramax 6600 6.6L V8 turbo-diesel -- 300 hp at 3,000 rpm and 520 lbs-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic with tow/haul mode.

Cargo capacity: 53.8 cu. ft.

Payload capacity: 2,453 lbs.

Towing capacity: 9,303 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, remote keyless entry, central locking system, traction control, tire beadlock system and central tire inflation system. Optional safety features include electric locking front and rear axles and a 12,000 lb., Warn winch.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Free scheduled maintenance: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Powertrain: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 HUMMER H1 Alpha starts at $128,374 for the open top and $139,771 for the wagon. Destination charges add $1,025.



As tested

2006 HUMMER H1 Alpha Open Top SUV

Exterior color: Flame Red Pearl

Interior color: Black

Tire make/model: Goodyear Dueler MT/R

Tire size: 37x12.50R17 LT

Base price $128,374

Destination charges $ 1,025

Off road adventure package $ 5,726

Tires â€" MT-R 17-inch $ 100

Total as tested $135,225

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