Jason on Cars

Regardless of whether you like it or hate it, you have an opinion on Hummer. From a worldly standpoint, I think they are ridiculous. However, with that being said, from a purely visual standpoint, I think they are fascinating. After Top Gun, I thought fighter jets were cool, I do think Humvees are cool, yet, it doesn’t mean I want to drive one around town.

So, when I got the chance to drive this one, I was actually really excited. I’d never been in one before, and I was curious to see what it was like. I was also curious to see what looks I would get and wondered how I would be respected on the road.

I have to say, it was less than expected.

When you get in, you’re immediately reminded of two things. This is a very large vehicle, and it is a GM-made car. Without a doubt, GM-made cars are the least attractive interior-designed cars on the planet. My wife’s 1995 Chevy Cavalier looks about the same inside as this car. Horrible antiquated nobs, gaudy buttons and dials. I was really surprised that with as much outward design and character as the Hummer had, the inside would look so disappointing. It basically looked like the dash out of a 1997 Trailblazer filled with more cup-holders and a larger center console.

But I digress. You put it in reverse and look down to see if you’re going to run over any kids, dogs, mid-size cars. It’s big. This thing was terrible to back out of the driveway and I truly was afraid I was going to end up on top of my co-workers Lotus. It was impossible to see from my perch.

Once I pointed it towards the freeway, things improved. It was quiet, and big. While I drove it, I found myself rarely changing lanes unless I had to. Parking spots were four-point turns, tight alleys were avoided, and I had to keep reminding myself that this was significantly smaller than the Hummer H1.

I was not sad when they took this car away, and I won’t be sad if I don’t drive another. The build was very good on the car, and I appreciated the little things like a power rear window, but I just can not think of a single reason I would ever want to drive this car again. Unless it was to go to a GreenPeace rally and I was in the mood for a fight. Maybe not even then.

2 Stars.