(From Edmunds.com)
A newcomer to the growing compact wagon scene is the Chevrolet HHR.
The HHR name stands for "Heritage High Roof," referring to its tall
retro-wagon styling, which Chevrolet claims is inspired by the '49 Suburban.
Everything else about the vehicle, however, is decidedly modern.
Though compact in size, the Chevy HHR features clever interior packaging
solutions, including a split-folding rear seat, a fold-flat front-passenger
seat and a cargo area floor (with built-in grocery bag hooks) that allows it
to accommodate bulky and/or long cargo items. For shoppers searching for a
versatile compact wagon that's also stylish, the HHR certainly merits
consideration.
The Chevrolet HHR is a compact four-door wagon. It shares its
front-wheel-drive architecture and thus many of its driving characteristics
with the Chevrolet Cobalt. For the 2006 model year, three trim levels are
offered: LS, 1LT and 2LT. Interior quality is among the best we've seen from
General Motors, although it remains short of the caliber found in competing
import vehicles. The HHR's tall ceiling provides headroom aplenty but the
narrow body limits comfort for adults riding in the backseat area.
The LS model is the price leader, yet it comes comfortably equipped with
a lengthy list of standard features including power accessories, cruise
control, air conditioning, keyless entry and a stereo with an input jack for
an external music device. The 1LT adds a power driver seat, an upgraded
stereo and a longer options list, which includes a rear spoiler, a sunroof,
OnStar, leather upholstery and a 172-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder
engine, which we consider a worthwhile upgrade from the 143-hp, 2.2-liter
unit that powers all LS models. The 2LT version adds some sportiness in the
form of 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, a Pioneer stereo, extra chrome
exterior trim and the 2.4-liter engine.
An interesting fact about the Chevrolet HHR is that it offers roughly the
same EPA fuel-economy ratings regardless of engine or transmission choice,
the latter limited to five-speed manual or four-speed automatic units.
Significantly, the HHR is available only with front-wheel drive while
several competitors offer all-wheel drive for enhanced foul-weather
capability. Furthermore, the HHR's list of safety features is merely
average, lacking such items as seat-mounted side airbags and stability
control that can be found on several competitors.
Something no other competitor offers, however, is a remote engine starter
-- standard with all Chevy HHRs with automatic transmissions -- which can
help heat or cool the interior of the vehicle before the driver gets inside.
Once inside, however, the driver will notice nicely detailed gauges,
pleasing radio graphics, tight fits between dashboard and door panels and
substantial-feeling knobs and switches.
In our road test of the Chevrolet HHR, our editors commented favorably
about the vehicle's smooth and quiet ride, ample cargo space, attractive
interior, excellent visibility and versatile sound system. Noted downsides
included weak brakes, bland handling dynamics, tight shoulder room and a
lack of low-end pull and refinement from the 2.4-liter engine.