As gas prices rise, the market inevitably shifts, even for stalwart automotive brands like Hummer. Amid news that General Motors has decided to wind down Hummer production in the next few years, and even rumors that the Hummer brand might be sold to a manufacturer in India, Hummer takes a politically correct step for 2009 by introducing an optional FlexFuel engine that runs on E85, a blend of 85 percent Ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. The FlexFuel engine will be available in all H2 trims.

Following a design refresh in 2008, the Hummer H2 changes little for 2009. As in previous years, it will be available in three trims. The Base H2 comes with leather-appointed seats, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an aluminum shifter, dual-zone climate control, and a six-disc in-dash CD changer.

Full-time four-wheel drive helps the big SUV hold tight to slippery roads. Traction control, a StabiliTrak stability enhancement system, and variable-ratio steering also improve stability, traction, and handling.

The H2 Adventure trim adds an air suspension package and a brush grille guard, as well as an optional touch-screen DVD navigation system (not available on the Base trim).

At the high end, the H2 Luxury trim adds a full third-row seat for two passengers, a Bose Cabin Surround Sound audio system, a rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system, carpeted floor mats, a power sunroof, and 17-inch polished aluminum wheels.

A 393-horsepower, 6.2-liter Vortec V8 engine powers all three H2 trims. The engine links to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.