My Alpha Test Drive Results

[BuzzH3]

Originally Posted by lotus4s

The problem is not the 5000 lb curb weight, it's GM and Hummer (as well as the rest of the big 3). Look at what Toyota has done with the new Tundra. With a curb weight of slightly more than the H3 and a 5.7L V8 they are getting 0-60 times in the 6 second range, 380 hp and 400 lb.ft of torque, a 6 speed auto tranny and EPA mpg numbers better than the Alpha. I test drove a couple of them recently and was extremely impressed.

I was 90% sure I was getting a new Alpha until I test drove it and came away very disappointed. Not worth the extra money IMHO...

I would have to agree with you. I was very disappointed with GM. They could have done so much more with the Alpha. Don't get me wrong. I think it's a great vehicle, but there is absolutely no compelling reason for current owners to upgrade. I realize that is not their target audience, but even for potential new owners, the decision is hard. I felt that there was little difference between my 3.5 and the V8, so the difference between the 3.7 and the V8 has to be even closer. If I was a new customer and test drove the Alpha and the 3.7, then looked at the sticker price and the MPG, I think I would go for the 3.7. IMHO, I think the Alpha, which designates a top level version of the model, should have at least 350HP or probably more.