The Hummer is for those who want more performance or bragging rights than the Suburban or Toyota Land Cruiser can offer. Not only are they being found on ranches in the real wilds, but they are a frequent sight on LA freeways.

Features that make the Hummer unique include a central tire inflation system that will change tire pressure from the driver's seat. The fully independent suspension not only has a long travel, but the 16" ground clearance is almost twice that of any competitor.

Power is provided by a GM diesel V8. The military only uses diesel powered vehicles to simplify fuel logistics. There has been enough demand for a gasoline version, but real Hummer owners contend that is for wimps.

Over 4000 civilian Hummers have been sold, seemingly almost all to movie companies. American General feels the greatest market is with mining, oil exploration, fire fighting and forestry operations. All civilian Hummers are specially outfitted with road and safety equipment, and while some military vehicles have found their way into private ownership, they don't meet the licensing and testing agreements.

The frame and drive train are part of the passenger compartment. The designers must have considered people to be highly inconvenient in the layout process. Some interior improvements were added this year, but Lexus is not worried.