2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV: A Convert’s Unexpected Praise

As a long-time auto journalist, I’ve had my share of experiences with various vehicles, including every iteration of the Hummer since its consumer debut in 1998. To my surprise, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV has become the first Hummer I genuinely enjoyed and even missed after it left my driveway. This electric SUV challenges preconceived notions about the Hummer brand and carves out its own space in the competitive luxury EV market.

Historically, Hummers, while undeniably capable and visually striking, never quite resonated with my personal preferences. They fulfilled their promise of robust engineering and bold design, appealing to a specific clientele seeking off-road prowess and a commanding presence. However, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV marks a significant departure, offering a blend of Hummer’s iconic characteristics with the refined experience expected in a modern electric vehicle. Unlike its predecessors, this Hummer EV SUV is a vehicle I could envision integrating into daily life.

The aesthetic appeal of the test vehicle was immediately apparent, boasting a striking deep blue paint job and imposing 35-inch off-road tires. Stepping inside revealed a comfortable and spacious interior, complemented by a premium Bose audio system. Notably, the SUV variant is 20 inches shorter than the GMC Hummer EV pickup, making it more manageable in urban environments. While the Hummer EV pickup, launched in 2021, served primarily as a bold statement and a buzz-generating machine for GMC’s electric ambitions, the SUV feels like a more grounded and broadly appealing offering. It retains the Hummer’s distinctive, attention-grabbing styling, yet its dimensions, with a length of 196.8 inches, position it as a direct competitor to luxury SUVs like the BMW X7 and Rivian R1S. In this segment, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV holds its own, offering a unique proposition.

Despite its considerable width of 86.7 inches, the electric Hummer SUV exhibits surprising maneuverability thanks to its four-wheel steering system. Navigating parking lots and suburban streets becomes remarkably easy for a vehicle of this size. The much-touted “CrabWalk” feature, allowing diagonal movement, is more of a novelty, perhaps entertaining for onlookers, but the enhanced steering functionality is a tangible benefit in everyday driving scenarios. While previous Hummers often felt cumbersome on public roads, the electric SUV provides a surprisingly relaxed and comfortable driving experience.

The powertrain, featuring three electric motors generating 830 horsepower, contributes to the SUV feeling unexpectedly agile. The responsive steering further enhances this sensation, making the vehicle feel smaller and more nimble than its dimensions might suggest. However, the Hummer’s assertive styling and sheer size can still provoke reactions from other drivers. One incident involved an aggressive driver reacting negatively to the Hummer’s presence, a reminder that the brand still carries a certain polarizing image.

Despite minor drawbacks, such as an interior that feels somewhat plasticky for its price point and toggle switches that could benefit from improved illumination, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV offers numerous redeeming qualities. The choreographed LED exterior lighting sequence, greeting the driver upon approach, adds a touch of futuristic charm. A notable issue encountered was a malfunctioning power tailgate, a problem reportedly common and needing attention from GMC. Nevertheless, these minor flaws are overshadowed by the overall positive driving experience and the vehicle’s unique appeal. The prospect of driving the Hummer EV 3X trim again is genuinely appealing.

The 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV is available in several trim levels, including the 2X, starting at $98,550, and the 3X, priced at $104,650, excluding a destination charge. Looking ahead, it would be intriguing to see GMC explore more accessible segments within the electric off-road market. Drawing inspiration from the original spirit of off-roading, a smaller, lighter, and more affordable electric vehicle with open-air design, perhaps reminiscent of a dune buggy, could be a compelling addition to the Hummer EV family. Such a vehicle could even serve as a recreational companion for owners of the larger Hummer EV pickup or SUV.

Ultimately, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV represents a significant step forward for the Hummer brand, successfully transitioning into the electric era while retaining its core identity. It’s time to evaluate Hummer based on its current offerings rather than past perceptions.

2024 GMC Hummer EV Luxury Electric SUV: Quick Specs