Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Chevrolet HHR

Chevrolet HHR - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Chevrolet HHR ranks 5 out of 7 Affordable Compact Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 57 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet HHR, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

With cargo versatility and cool retro style the 2010 Chevy HHR is miles away from the old wood-sided wagon you used to get hauled to Grandma's in. But according to our analysis, the HHR's performance could give you mom's old Country Squire a run for its money.

The HHR is a good option for drivers who care more about style and practicality than they do performance. With seating for five in a reasonable comfortable cabin, plus excellent cargo-hauling capabilities, the HHR is a decent choice for a basic around-town runner -- which is a common assessment of affordable compact wagons.

However, if you're looking for sporty performance, you should either confine yourself to the HHR's performance oriented SS trim or shop for another car entirely. Car and Driver says the HHR drives just as retro as it looks. "The shifter catches as it moves through the pattern. The steering is rubbery and very sensitive to road camber; it wants to fall off the road crown." The HHR's retro looks make it a standout in the parking lot, but its retro performance may make drivers want to leave it there. Still, most reviewers agree that as long as you're not looking for a performance car, the HHR is a fun and practical companion around town.

The HHR's interior is one of its strong points. Reviewers are fans of the large cargo area, and the comfortable seats. A few even say that the interior has stylish and upscale touches -- a decided contrast to the Chrysler PT Cruiser, which is often credited with launching the retro wagon segment. Another nice point in the HHR's interior is that even the base model comes well-equipped, and it's easy to upgrade to high-tech features like Bluetooth and remote start. Finally, the HHR can be orderd as a passenger wagon or as a panel wagon, which gives up a rear seat for more cargo. The panel wagon can be customized with interior shelving to organize cargo and deliveries.

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Test Vehicle:Chevrolet HHR LT
Price of Test Vehicle: $21,355 (including a $565 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 2.4-liter four-cylinder
Engine Horsepower: 172 at 6,200 rpm
Engine Torque: 162 at 5,000 rpm
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Curb weight, lbs.: 3,208
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 23/30 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 21.8 mpg
Length: 176.2 inches
Width: 69.1 inches
Wheelbase: 103.5 inches
Height: 63.1 inches
Leg room (front/rear): 40.6/39.5 inches
Head room (front/rear): 39.6/39.0 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Max. Cargo Volume: 63.1 cubic feet
Competitors: Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus Wagon, Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mitsubishi Outlander, Pontiac Vibe, Saturn Vue, Scion xB, Subaru Impreza Wagon, Suzuki Aerio SX, Suzuki Forenza Wagon, Toyota Matrix