HUMMER will add a 5.3-liter V-8 to its H3 sport-ute 2008

HUMMER will add a 5.3-liter V-8 to its H3 sport-ute 2008

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HUMMER will add a 5.3-liter V-8 to its H3 sport-ute for the 2008 model year. The engine will be stuffed into a new model dubbed the H3 Alpha. The new model will be shown publicly at the 2007 New York auto show.



The Alpha version-the latest in a series of Alpha models spun off the H2 and H1 utes-will spin out 295 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, through a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. The drivetrain will boost the H3's towing capacity to 6000 pounds.



When it bowed, the H3 was not designed for a large V-8. but after years of criticism heaped on its in-line five-cylinder engine, GM retooled the H3's front end to accept its 5.3-liter V-8. The new front end also required a new steering rack, which HUMMER claims also delivers better steering feel and off-road reliability.



Other modifications made to the H3 in its transition to Alpha dog: a cast-iron front differential is installed; new engine mounts are used; and the suspension is retuned to accommodate the extra weight of the V-8 engine.



Safety equipment is upgraded to include side curtain airbags, stability control and tire pressure monitors. A rearview camera and a navigation system are optional.