Hummer introduced its smallest model, the H3, with a five-cylinder engine in 2006, and the timing couldn’t have been better. Gas prices were rising and among the most volatile on record. Still, everyone knew the truck needed more power. Even though the 2007 model received a small boost from 220 to 242 horsepower, the first real power infusion comes in the 2008 H3 Alpha, a special edition propelled by a 295-hp, 5.3-liter V-8.
The H3 Alpha is the second “ultimate” expression of a Hummer model. The first was the H1 Alpha, which was the model’s swan song in 2006. The military-derived H1 came only as the Alpha and is no longer sold.
Exterior
The underlying H3 is equipped with the otherwise optional Luxury option package and the Chrome Appearance package, which includes chrome 16-inch wheels. The Alpha marking is minimal, to say the least: It’s limited to a badge on the swing gate. Hummer says the Alpha is also eligible for the H3X model’s more significant accoutrements, including a chrome fuel-filler door, bright roof-rack cross-members, a body-colored grille and exclusive wheels, tires, spare-tire cover and brush guard.
Interior
The comparatively new H3 never came under the same fire as the H2 for its interior design and materials. Between its higher quality and the model’s lower overall price, the interior seemed more appropriate. The interior is mostly unchanged, but this version gets Alpha badges on the horn pad and front head restraints.
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