* Click HERE to see a video on the Chevrolet HHR *
Small yet big
When Chrysler introduced their PT Cruiser a few years ago, it was an immediate success. Today, sales have cooled down, so GM thought it might be time to strike.
Could it be too late? Maybe Chevrolet should have thought of it before? Chrysler certainly attracted lots of buyers that were convinced by the retro look of the PT. Now, can the HHR achieve the same in 2006?
Styling
First off, the look of the HHR is inspired, according the GM, by classic models like the 1949 Suburban. We can see the resemblance in the chrome grille and curvaceous front and rear fenders. Does the HHR look too much like a PT Cruiser? Who cares?
When I saw the HHR in person for the first time, I found it small; it looked bigger in photos. The more I look at it, the more I appreciate its shape. However, I'm not crazy about my test car's atomic pumpkin paint job. There are more sober colours available, happily, as well as a nice purple. I must say that my rolling pumpkin gets a lot of attention. People on the street stop, walk around the car and check it out. I get interrogated by other parents at the day-care center, in the morning. In general, you like or dislike the HHR, but I think GM succeeded on its styling.
Mechanical
Two engines are available in the HHR. In the base LS, just like my pumpkin, we find the 2.2-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine. This DOHC, 16-valve unit produces 143 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, acceleration is average, but passing power is good. Maybe it's me, but it seems as though this engine runs out of breath over 5,500 rpm, and becomes noisy. However, once you hit the 3rd and 4th gears, when the rev climbs less rapidly, it starts demonstrating its real power. This engine is sufficient for everyday driving, but for those who want a little more horsepower will have to opt for the more expensive LT, which receives a 2.4-liter and 29 additional ponies.
I maintain a fuel consumption average of 10.0L/100 km, with a mix of city and highway driving. When I drive more aggressively, the average only
climbs to about 11.5 litres, which is good. Slow highway cruising nets me nearly 8.0L/100 km.
I am pleasantly surprised by the handling of the HHR. It takes good care of itself when pushed around, and there is minimal body roll while cornering. The steering is both precise and light. It doesn't have a true sporty character, but the car is nimble and quite fun to drive. The shift lever is precise though a little rubbery, and the clutch is light.
Small yet big
 |
| 2006 Chevrolet HHR LS (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com) |
Could it be too late? Maybe Chevrolet should have thought of it before? Chrysler certainly attracted lots of buyers that were convinced by the retro look of the PT. Now, can the HHR achieve the same in 2006?
Styling
First off, the look of the HHR is inspired, according the GM, by classic models like the 1949 Suburban. We can see the resemblance in the chrome grille and curvaceous front and rear fenders. Does the HHR look too much like a PT Cruiser? Who cares?
 |
| 2006 Chevrolet HHR LS (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com) |
Mechanical
Two engines are available in the HHR. In the base LS, just like my pumpkin, we find the 2.2-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine. This DOHC, 16-valve unit produces 143 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, acceleration is average, but passing power is good. Maybe it's me, but it seems as though this engine runs out of breath over 5,500 rpm, and becomes noisy. However, once you hit the 3rd and 4th gears, when the rev climbs less rapidly, it starts demonstrating its real power. This engine is sufficient for everyday driving, but for those who want a little more horsepower will have to opt for the more expensive LT, which receives a 2.4-liter and 29 additional ponies.
I maintain a fuel consumption average of 10.0L/100 km, with a mix of city and highway driving. When I drive more aggressively, the average only
 |
| 2006 Chevrolet HHR LS (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com) |
I am pleasantly surprised by the handling of the HHR. It takes good care of itself when pushed around, and there is minimal body roll while cornering. The steering is both precise and light. It doesn't have a true sporty character, but the car is nimble and quite fun to drive. The shift lever is precise though a little rubbery, and the clutch is light.