After complaints of an underpowered engine became deafening, the 2008 Hummer H3 added a new 5.3-liter V8 to its lineup. The new H3 Alpha gets 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, and its dimensions have been slightly revised to accommodate the larger engine from the Silverado. It also purportedly is cleaner than many pickup engines. The regular 5-cylinder, 3.5-liter engine remains, now putting out 242 hp. Both engines come with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed Hydramatic, and the Alpha has taller gears.

The 2008 H3 features 4WD with low-range gearing, 9 inches of ground clearance, and skid plates, and is designed specifically for off-roading. Traction control and rack-and-pinion steering have been revised this year, and all models come with ABS brakes, stability control, a tire monitor, and dual front airbags. Side curtain airbags have also been added in the Alpha for 2008. Base models feature a full power setup, cruise control, and CD player, and as you move up through Luxury and H3x, you add heated leather seats, power front seats, and a 6-CD changer. The H3x adds styling notes, such as a chrome fuel door and body-colored grille.

Rear seats split-fold 60/40 and fold down to open up the small cargo area to 56 cubic feet. Tie-downs are included, but a cargo cover is extra. You can also add a trailer hitch to tow up to 4,500 pounds in the regular H3 and 6,000 pounds in the Alpha V8. The rear-mounted spare tire, which hampered visibility, has been moved under the bed. Options include a sunroof and rearview camera. The extra V8 power has increased the 2008 H3's rugged off-roading performance, and the smaller overall size of the H3 somewhat improves city maneuverability, but highway driving still lacks power, and the rear seats are still cramped.