Chevrolet HHR

Those of you monitoring internet websites like AutomotiveForums.com and similar locations know that General Motors has long-been working on an answer to Chrysler’s popular retro-wagon, the PT Cruiser. Spy photos and official artist renderings have been floating across the web for months. So the debut of the new Chevrolet HHR at the Los Angeles Auto Show isn’t exactly a surprise to many, yet some are still a bit set aback at how similar this new Chevy looks to the venerable PT.

Yet GM makes the claim that it was not cribbing the competition’s playbook, but looking to its past for the inspiration behind the HHR. The name itself stands for Heritage High Roof and the look is based on classic Chevy Suburbans of yore, specifically the 1949 model. At least, that’s what GM’s public relations department wants you to think. And they’ve got a valid point, as it does look a great deal like “the original utility vehicle,” especially from the side. Unfortunately for them, Chrysler just came up with the same idea a few years ahead. The HHR almost looks as if it could have been the first generation PT Cruiser’s successor, as it takes similar lines and adds a bit of starch to them – making for a bit more aggressive appearance.

Mechanically, the HHR is based on the same platform underpinning Chevrolet’s anticipated Cobalt compact coupes and sedans. The overall length 174.5 inches makes it slightly larger than the PT Cruiser, and the cargo capacity of 63.1 cubic feet again puts the HHR ahead of the Chrysler. Two trim levels are available, LS and LT. Base models come with an Ecotec 2.2L four cylinder rated at 140 hp and 150 ft-lbs of torque. Optional is the 2.4L Ecotec four cylinder with 170hp and 170 ft-lbs of torque. A five speed manual transmission is standard while a four speed automatic is available. Both are DOHC designs with four valves per cylinder and electronic throttle control.

Chevrolet HHR

Underpinning the HHR is a MacPherson strut front suspension and a semi independent torsion beam rear setup. FE1 and FE3 suspension setups will be offered. FE1 is geared towards a softer, more comfortable ride. Standard on LT models, FE3 is designed for a sportier ride with 17-inch wheels and monotube shocks. All models come with rack-and-pinion electric power steering designed to match the two different suspension offerings. Making sure the HHR doesn’t become a PT Pancake on the back of a semi will be large front disc brakes and rear drums with available ABS and traction control.

Safety features include standard front airbags for driver and passenger, available side curtain airbags for front and rear outboard passengers, rear center lap-shoulder belts with LATCH child seat retention system, and available OnStar with Advanced Automatic Crash Notification.

“The HHR is what you want it to be, whether you’re hauling band equipment around the country or hauling your friends across town,” said Lori Queen, GM vehicle line executive for small cars. “With its unmistakable styling and innovative features, the HHR is further proof that there is a new spirit at Chevrolet.”

Chevrolet HHR

This being a utility vehicle of sorts, patterned after one of the original Suburbans, the HHR was designed to fit all your interior needs. First off, the aesthetic design is one of GM’s better efforts of late – yet another example that the General may finally be leaving its toy-car-grade plastics and designs behind. Stereo systems include such options as MP3 capability, Pioneer-designed sound with subwoofer, and XM Satellite Radio. Other useful features include:

• The front passenger seat folds fully flat, extending the total load length from the liftgate to the instrument panel.
• The center armrest of the front seats is integrated into the seat back frame, so it is out of the way when pivoted into a stowed position; a characteristic of trucks and SUVs.
• The rear seats have a 60/40-split, which fold to form a flat load surface in conjunction with the folded front passenger seat. The 60-percent side was thoughtfully positioned on the passenger side, enabling wider objects to be placed in the vehicle securely.

Chevrolet paid special attention to the cargo area’s flexibility:

• It provides a continuous flat load floor when the rear seats are folded down.
• The floor conceals a 5-inch-deep recess bin; the spare tire is located beneath the bin.
• The primary load floor can become a shelf when raised and mounted approximately 2 feet higher – the shelf can be mounted level or at a 45-degree angle to provide quick access to the cargo beneath it when the liftgate is opened.
• Two large storage bins are found forward of the load floor, nested behind the rear seat, and plastic bag holders are conveniently located on the rear compartment bin.