I have to admit I got all tingly and excited when I read the initial teaser press release about the 2008 Hummer H2. The cryptically-worded teaser release said it would be "more powerful and more fuel efficient." Maybe I really am an oilhead, because as soon as I heard those two terms together, I automatically thought "Oh my gosh. They're actually going to finally do it. They're going to offer the Duramax in the H2! It's about freakin' time!"

However, upon digging a little deeper, I was disappointed to find out the powertrain combo they were actually talking about was the 6.2L Vortec and 6L80 six-speed automatic. Now, nothing against that powertrain. It's a worthwhile upgrade from the asthmatic 6.0L and 4-speed combo (especially when saddled to the H2's porky 6,400 pounds.) But imagine how much more energetic the Hummer would be with 650 lb.-ft. of torque scooting it down the road.

As far as I'm concerned, whatever argument GM gives as to why the Hummer still doesn't have the diesel is bunk, except for one. Maybe they've maxed out the production capacity for the engine. More  than 60 percent of the HD Sierras and Silverados come with the Duramax, and maybe the factory is cranking out every one they can produce. But in terms of packaging, drivetrain, price, demand, etc., there's no contest. I mean, if you're starting with a $70,000 vehicle to begin with, what's another eight grand? And I guarantee you that if the Duramax were offered as an option, the take rate would be well over 50 percent.

I'm still holding out hope for the '09 or '10 model year. Granted, it'll still be out of my budget at that point (unless I win the Lotto jackpot), but I would still get satisfaction out of knowing the H2 would finally receive the powertrain it's deserved from the start.