First Drive of the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV: Elegance Meets Beast Mode
MOAB, Utah — Describing the first drive of the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV as "It’s big, but this elephant can dance," is hardly an overstatement. After maneuvering through the congested streets of San Francisco and the broad backroads of Napa Valley, this massive SUV lived up to its praise. However, no SUV can claim the title of a true supertruck without proving its prowess off-road. To put it to the test, GMC invited automotive enthusiasts to Moab, Utah, for a real off-road experience.
Trimming Down Without Missing a Beat
Decreasing the overall length by 20 inches and the wheelbase by nine inches from the original pickup does wonders for the Hummer EV SUV. Its off-road agility is nothing short of impressive, making it fit for Moab’s rugged landscape. We already had a hint of this capability when test driving the Hummer SUT two years back over similar red terrains. Both models share numerous features, but thanks to the development phase in Moab, the SUV version distinctly showcases improved trail navigation.
Enhanced Clearance and Angles
The SUV boasts better clearance angles compared to its SUT counterpart. The SUV enjoys a marginally better approach angle at 49.6 degrees, along with a significant improvement in departure angle at 49 degrees, and a breakover angle that is 2.2 degrees higher. Coupled with a short wheelbase and four-wheel steering, this SUV’s turning radius tightens to an impressive 35.4 feet. To put this in perspective, it’s just a tad larger than a BMW i3 and significantly smaller than a short-boxed GMC Sierra Crew Cab.
Tech and Power
This sophisticated SUV includes 15 cameras, one less than the SUT owing to the difference in bed design. The 3X trim gets its monster power from three motors generating a combined 830 horsepower and a staggering 1,200 pound-feet of torque. The $9,995 Extreme Off-Road package enriches the Hummer with rock sliders, underbody skid plates, additional cameras, and mechanical and virtual differentials, among other features, paired with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Mud-Terrain tires.
Add this package to the base price of $104,650 plus extras like the Infinity roof, Void Black paint, and a delivery charge brings the total to $119,080 before taxes and fees.
Performance Meets Comfort
During our time in Moab, we tested Terrain mode through Cameo Cliff/Hook and OHV Ladder Trail System, with the Hummer adapting impressively. The air suspension and Sachs ZF dampers managed the SUV’s four-ton load, though it felt overly stiff on certain trails. Optimal driving comfort might require lowering the tire pressure below the indicated 45 psi for better cushioning. Despite some room for improvement, especially in ride firmness over technical terrain, the Hummer navigated challenges like rock descents with admirable ease.
Steering to Innovation
The Hummer’s four-wheel steering stands out, effortlessly shrinking its turning radius. Navigating tight turns or repositioning on a challenging trail requires minimal effort. However, in some low-speed off-road scenarios, the rear steering’s efficiency can be almost too good, pulling the SUV too sharply versus a gradual follow-along from the front wheels.
Technological Feedback
Knowing how hard the electric motors are working off-road can be tricky, so GMC engineers programmed a throttle sound booster in Off-Road mode to provide drivers with auditory cues. This subtle feature could still use a bit more amplification to guide better throttle control during challenging climbs.
Comfort on Normal Roads
While extremely capable off-road, the Hummer transitions astonishingly smoothly back to urban settings. Its massive 86.5-inch width requires some getting used to, and although the camera angles assist in navigation, their perspectives may distort depth. Driving a Hummer involves acclimating to its significant dimensions, much like its predecessor Hummer H2.
Conclusion
The 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV not only fulfills its supertruck designation but surpasses expectations on both paved roads and rugged trails. It’s an intricate blend of sheer power, cutting-edge tech, and luxury. If you’re venturing into the world of high-end, off-road SUVs, the Hummer EV SUV is worth every cent, promising adventures that are as legendary as its dragon-like presence.
Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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