Michael Satterfield
The 2025 GMC Hummer EV 3X Pickup reimagines the iconic Hummer for a new era, blending the brand’s rugged legacy with an eco-conscious electric powertrain. Starting at $130,400 (including destination fees), the test model featured several premium upgrades: the optional Infinity Roof, a premium audio system, Deep Aurora Metallic paint (reminiscent of a UPS truck), and a dual-level charge cord. Despite its impressive specs and undeniable presence, my opinion of the Hummer EV hasn’t shifted much since my initial test drive in 2022. Its sheer size, long charging times, weight, and limited towing range make it more of a luxury novelty than a practical EV solution.
The GMC Hummer EV 3X Pickup: A Bold Statement with Real Limitations
At the heart of the Hummer EV 3X is its tri-motor powertrain, delivering an awe-inspiring 1,000 horsepower and rocketing from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds. This jaw-dropping performance is courtesy of its “Watts to Freedom” (WTF) mode, a feature designed to unleash the vehicle’s full potential for an exhilarating ride. However, as the speedometer climbs, the battery range drains noticeably, especially in this high-performance mode.
Despite its raw power, the Hummer EV 3X also excels in comfort. The adaptive air suspension smooths out rough roads, while the four-wheel steering system—complete with the quirky “CrabWalk” feature—improves low-speed maneuverability, making parking this behemoth slightly less daunting in tight spots.
The Hummer EV blends aggressive design elements with modern refinement. The Deep Aurora Metallic paint, paired with black accents, enhances its commanding presence, while the optional Infinity Roof adds a touch of adventure. The removable Sky Panels allow for an open-air experience, offering a connection to the outdoors.
Inside, the vehicle combines ruggedness with luxury. It comfortably seats five passengers, but entry and exit can be tricky due to its high step-in height and the low roofline when the panels are in place. The cabin features premium materials, a sleek layout, and an impressive Kicker audio system that delivers top-notch sound quality.
With dimensions measuring 216.8 inches in length, 86.7 inches in width, and 79.1 inches in height, the Hummer EV 3X dominates the road—but navigating narrow streets or finding parking is no small feat. Compact EV charging spaces, in particular, are a poor match for this oversized truck.
The Hummer EV 3X can tow up to 8,500 pounds, but this capability comes with a catch. Towing significantly reduces its estimated 314-mile range, requiring more frequent stops to recharge. Long-distance towing is further complicated by the lack of pull-through charging stations, adding to the inconvenience.
Charging is another area where planning is essential. A 240-volt Level 2 home charger takes about 10.5 hours for a full charge, while DC fast-charging offers quicker top-ups—though availability varies by region. Cold weather also impacts the battery, as seen during a Texas snowstorm when the parked vehicle lost 5% of its range overnight.
Safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additionally, GMC’s Super Cruise technology enables hands-free driving on compatible highways, making long journeys more comfortable.
The Hummer EV 3X Pickup is undeniably impressive in its engineering and performance, but its practicality falls short. It doesn’t align with the typical expectations for an EV, its weight and size hinder off-road performance, and its range limitations make towing less viable. While its straight-line speed is exhilarating, it lacks the finesse in handling, which can be unnerving for inexperienced drivers. For those who value bold performance and a high-end cabin over day-to-day usability, the Hummer EV serves as a head-turning statement piece—but for everyone else, it’s hard to justify its six-figure price tag.
