[devilsfan]

I like the fact that Hummer came out with a vehicle that more people can afford. There are a large contingency of on- and off-road enthusiasts who love Hummers but simply can't afford the H1 or H2. I'd more than welcome them into our group - they share the love of the truck, they shouldn't be penalized because they can't spare an extra $50,000 for a vehicle.

I agree with Seth about the extra protection being optional, however - to a point. Both Hummer and Jeep started out as being known for their off-road prowess. But look how Jeep has changed in the past 10-15 years - they realize that there will always be a market for off-roaders, but there's an even larger market for those who like the styling or the Jeep name and will never take their vehicle off pavement. Hummer came to this realization with the H2 - only 5% take the beast off-road, even tho every single H2 owner pays for the heavy duty suspension and undercarriage protection. I know I bought mine for the styling, and only after I bought the truck did I get into off-roading. People who intend to take the H3 off road will buy the extra equipment. Those who buy it for the Hummer name or for the styling will be able to afford a nice truck that will basically be in the same class as the Grand Cherokee. Neither camp is wrong, they just have different lifestyles. This is the first time Hummer has begun to market towards that. I don't think it tarnishes the image, it just adds another option.

Stacy