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The obvious comparison between Chevrolet’s new HHR wagon and the popular Chrysler PT Cruiser seems to be a big deal for a lot of people. HHR is called a blatant copycat, an attempt by Chevrolet to steal a piece of Chrysler’s retro-truckette action.

I say, so what? With many people looking for expressive vehicles that are practical and affordable, there’s plenty of room for another compact wagon built on a car chassis and done up to look like a vintage vehicle.

In the Chevy’s case, the inspiration is the 1949 Suburban, an early sport utility vehicle that has been an enduring collector’s item and a desirable palette for hot-rod builders. The designer of HHR is the same guy who created PT Cruiser, so again, the comparison is fairly obvious.

But if potential buyers judge HHR on its own merits, they’ll discover a small but roomy vehicle that drives nicely and draws appreciative attention everywhere it goes.

The look is pretty cool, though it doesn’t really jump out as a rendition of the ’49 Suburban. The cheeky fenders are there, as well as the rounded front, but the grille with its gold Chevy bowtie looks too modern.

This type of tall wagon has gained some traction among buyers, who see such “crossover” vehicles, with the drivability of a small car and versatility of an SUV, as reasonable alternatives to minivans or bigger, truck-based SUVs.

HHR, by the way, stand for “heritage high roof,” according to Chevy folks, which doesn’t sound too interesting. Of course, the PT in PT Cruiser stands for “personal transport,” which has even less appeal.

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The lowdown

PERFORMANCE: The test HHR was equipped with the upgraded 172-horse engine and a five-speed manual transmission rather than the puny 143-horse four-banger and automatic.

As it was, the little truck had enough power for most chores but could use some more juice for freeway maneuvers. The lesser engine must be a dreary plodder.

Watch for a supercharged version in the future.

DRIVABILITY: Based on the chassis of the enjoyable Cobalt compact car, HHR is responsive and maneuverable, considering its high profile and extra weight.

I do have an issue with the brakes: Why design a new vehicle and saddle it with archaic drum brakes in the rear? Four-wheel discs work so much better. HHR’s braking response is mild at best.

Also, anti-lock is an optional extra.

STYLING: The old-school look is clean and appealing, with a pleasingly chunky profile and rounded fenders front and rear. But that grille could use some attention.

The stylists say part of HHR’s look is derived from Chevy’s retro hot-rod pickup, the SSR, which has a more vintage-looking grille. That would have looked great on HHR, adding the deco script lettering “Chevrolet” along the top of the grille, like the SSR and like the old Suburban. Too bad.

HHR is about 8 inches longer than PT Cruiser, though the wheelbase is nearly identical.

INTERIOR: The dashboard is simple and attractive, as befitting an old-truck style, with an especially nice-looking gauge cluster.

The seats are roomy all around, the truck’s interior feeling larger than the outside. Luggage space is good, with seats that fold flat and an adjustable cargo shelf in the rear.

BOTTOM LINE: Like the PT Cruiser, the styling of HHR is what sets it apart and adds to the appeal of an eminently practical and moderately priced wagon.

Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door wagon, front-wheel drive.

Engine: 2.4-liter inline 4, 172 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, 162 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed manual.

Wheelbase: 103.5 inches.

Overall length: 176.2 inches.

Curb weight: 3,208 pounds.

EPA rating: 22 city, 30 highway.

Highs: Fun styling, versatility, good drivability.

Lows: Could use more power, rear drum brakes, PT copycat? Pricing

Base price: $16,425.

Price as tested: $22,375.

OPTIONS

* Preferred equipment group, including 2.4-liter high-output engine, sport suspension, chrome features, anti-lock brakes, audio-speaker upgrade, leather trim, $1,800.

* Leather seats, $750.

* Moonroof, $725.

* Running boards, $445.

* Side curtain air bags, $395.

* Alloy wheels, $395.

* XM satellite radio, $325.

* CD changer and MP3, $295.

* Roof rack, $150.

* Floor mats, $105.

* Shipping, $550.

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For more on the Chevrolet HHR, go to autos.azcentral.com.