If you were cynical about it, you'd dismiss the Hummer H3 as "Hummer Lite."

But as it turns out, the H3 is very much its own SUV, even though it looks a great deal like the Hummer H2.

What's different about it? Because it's no bigger than the typical midsize family sedan, the H3 is much more suitable for urban living than the H2. Secondly, it feels livelier and more nimble on the road and around corners. And perhaps most importantly, gas mileage is at least decent -- close to 20 miles per gallon overall.

	Hummer.com The Hummer H3 has a base price of $28,935, but with options can surpass the $40,000 barrier. Click photo for larger image.

Our test model had a base price of $28,935. But this H3 was decked out with every option in the book, including a beautiful two-tone interior with piping around the seats. After options and accessories, the H3 easily cracked through the $40,000 barrier.

The nice thing about the H3 is that the controls are easy to use and accessible, thanks to its common heritage with General Motors' midsize pickups such as the Chevy Colorado.

Having said that, there are certain challenges that go along with this SUV. First, the Hummer H3 still feels daunting at first when you get behind the wheel, if only because of its square, upright posture. Most cars and trucks are more rounded and tapered in profile, so that's what most of us are used to. And that's why it will take you a few minutes to get accustomed to the H3's square-jawed demeanor before you'll feel comfortable.

Next, visibility is fine for taller, bigger people, but abysmal out of the side windows and to the rear for those of us who are short. I found myself raising up off the seat whenever I would glance back to park or to make a tricky turn, simply because I didn't feel I could see enough to make my movements safe.

I also found that the highway performance of the 3.5-liter, 220-horsepower five-cylinder engine was sluggish, and the hills near my home really proved to be a challenge for the H3. This problem already has been remedied for 2007, however, because the H3 is getting a bigger 3.7-liter, 242-horsepower five-cylinder engine to speed things up a bit.

Standard equipment is extensive on the H3, as it should be. You get full power accessories, dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, all-terrain tires, skid plates and 32-inch tires. You also have your choice of a five-speed manual or the four-speed automatic. Fuel economy ratings for the H3 currently are 16 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway.

By the way, don't expect anything but the best road manners from the H3. Despite its upright posture and imposing profile, I always felt stable and secure driving it.