HUMMER H1 Alpha

HUMMER H1 Alpha

Powered by GM's Duramax 6600 turbodiesel engine, the 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha generates an impressive 300 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and an incredible 520 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,500 rpm. A new Allison 1000 five-speed automatic transmission supplies the H1 with a tow/haul mode, a 2,000-pound bump in Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) to 17,300 pounds, improved drivetrain braking, and a 22-percent better crawl ratio of 45:1 for the really tough stuff. To make room for the new motor, the 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha's body sits two inches higher than before. All H1 Alphas get bigger brake rotors; upgraded axle half-shafts; tougher steering gear; and redesigned wheel hubs with a helical-cut gearset that improves gear engagement while reducing driveline noise and rocking motions when slowing down or stopping. To identify the 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha, look for this model's brighter finish wheels and special "Duramax" and "Alpha" badges on the body. Like last year's H1, the Alpha rides on 37-inch Goodyear GSA light-truck run-flat tires that can go 20 miles without air.

Advantages of the 2006 HUMMER H1 Alpha:

• Awesome off-road capabilities
• Undeniable street presence
• Stump-pulling torque

Objections to the 2006 HUMMER H1 Alpha:

• Cramped cabin
• Deafening interior noise
• Cheap interior bits and pieces
• Unsuitable for most urban parking areas and drive-thrus
• Vehicle width a liability on narrow or wooded off-road trails
• Open Top model's removable roof requires a Ph.D in rocket science to operate
• Miniscule cargo space given vehicle size
• Stratospheric price tag

AutoSite's Advice:

Logically, to own a 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha you must not only require but also understand the following concepts:
* Sixteen inches of vertical ground clearance
* Approach and departure angles of 72 and 37.5 degrees respectively
* Ability to ford a 30-inch deep body of water
* Capability to traverse a 60 percent grade or cross a 22-degree side slope
* Eaton ELocker locking differential
* 12,000-pound winch kit
* Two-piece aluminum wheels with dual beadlocks
* 520 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,500 rpm
* 12,300-pound GVWR
* New Venture Gear Model 242 transfer case