Vehicle Overview The HHR small wagon is also available as a performance-oriented SS trim level and as Panel wagon. The HHR flaunts a tall stance, like Chrysler’s PT Cruiser, and it’s built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cobalt sedan. In addition to the PT Cruiser, competitors include hatchbacks like the Dodge Caliber and Scion xB.
New for 2010 For 2010 the HHR Panel SS trim is dropped.
Exterior GM might not appreciate comparisons between the Chevrolet HHR and the retro-styled PT Cruiser, but the HHR is unabashedly designed to resemble a vehicle from the past, just as the Cruiser is. In Chevrolet’s case, that vehicle is the 1949 Suburban, which ranks as one of the first utility vehicles.
High roof design
Flared fenders that tuck in at the rocker panels
Standard 16-inch wheels on base trims (17- or 18-inch wheels standard on higher trims)
Two new paint colors
Interior Up to five occupants fit inside the HHR. The front passenger seat folds completely flat, and the rear seats are split 60/40 and fold to extend the cargo area. Interior features include:
Standard air conditioning
Standard CD stereo and keyless entry
Optional moonroof
Optional heated leather front seats
Under the Hood Three engines are offered in the HHR. The base 2.2-liter four-cylinder produces 155 horsepower and 150 pounds-feet of torque. The midlevel 2.4-liter four-cylinder generates 172 hp and 167 pounds-feet of torque. SS trim levels get a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 260 hp with the manual transmission and 260 pounds-feet of torque (250 hp and 222 pounds-feet with the automatic).
Front-wheel drive
Five-speed manual transmission standard for all engines
Four-speed automatic transmission optional for all engines
New SS Performance Package includes Brembo front brake calipers and a limited-slip differential (only available with five-speed manual transmission)
1,000-pound towing capacity (excludes SS)
Safety A number of important safety features are standard for 2010.
Rearview camera coming late in the model year
Antilock brakes
Side curtain airbags
Electronic stability system
HHR Panel The HHR panel version is aimed for commercial use. The rear seats are deleted for maximum storage capability, and the rear side windows are covered with body-colored steel inserts. There’s 57.7 cubic feet of space, with 5.4 cubic feet of under-floor storage. The Panel has two front seats, and rear cargo doors replace the conventional rear side doors. The rear cargo doors have no exterior handles and open by a dashboard release button or the key fob. The HHR Panel can have the same engine and transmission choices as the regular HHR. (Back to top)
