Hummer H3T

Hummer expanded its lineup for 2009 by adding its first midsize pickup truck, the H3T. Borrowing heavily from the Hummer H3, the new H3T rides on the same chassis and suspension, but adds a Crew Cab and a five-foot-long cargo bed. It also retains the same rugged exterior elements that distinguish every Hummer, including a wide stance, low roofline, high beltline, seven-slot grille, and round headlights in square housings.

The H3T's best feature, however, won't be immediately noticeable to drivers, but will no doubt be the truck's most talked-about attribute - its versatility. The H3T can be customized, using more than 125 dealer-installed accessories, to meet just about any need or demand of just about any driver.

For instance, bikers and kayakers can customize the H3T with a roof rack, while snowboarders can add a slant-back hard shell that covers the H3T's cargo bed, providing a place to stow and protect their gear. Skiers can add a slant-back rack system designed to transport skis, while hikers can add a tonneau cover over the rear bed to create a place to stow climbing gear. An optional bed-mounded tent system will appeal to campers, while dirt bikers can add a bike chock (a cage-like structure that sits in the bed).

The H3T's off-road capabilities are just as impressive. Full-time four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires, and full underbody protection, including oil pan, transfer case, and fuel tank shields, all come standard. So does Hill Hold Assist, which provides improved hill ascension. An optional Off-Road Suspension Package adds driver-selectable front and rear locking differentials and 33-inch All-Terrain tires.

The H3T is available in four trim levels. A 242-horsepower, 3.7-liter Vortec inline five-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams comes standard, although some reviewers find the engine uninspiring. It links to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed electronically controlled automatic. A 300-horsepower, 5.3-liter small-block V8 engine, designed by GM, is available as an option.

The H3T also includes a broad range of safety systems, including a StabiliTrak stability control system, four-wheel antilock brakes, head curtain side-impact airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and one year of OnStar.