Not many brands have fallen from grace as rapidly as the Hummer by GM.  Just a few years ago the Hummer was General Motors’ own version of the U.S. Mint- it was basically a money machine.  Now, in 2008, there has been a drastic change.  The Hummer sales for this year will probably be less than half of the sales in 2006, when 71,524 vehicles were sold.  GM is even considering discontinuing the Hummer altogether.

The 2008 Hummer H2 faces an all-new environment.  It has a new drivetrain, which has more power, and is more efficient.  Also, the cabin of the SUV has gotten a new overhaul, including more standard safety features.  Although these changes are good, it doesn’t change the fact that the H2 is a large SUV that is very thirsty.  And, this is in a time when people are trying to drive cars that are more efficient and less excessive.

Unfortunately, Hummer’s image isn’t in line with the current national way of thinking, and this is bound to make many consumers who can afford a luxury SUV of this type reconsider purchasing a vehicle that they may not have thought twice about when gas prices were lower.  However, now people are protecting themselves by purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles, and buying an auto warranty in case of unforeseen repair costs.