2009 Chevrolet HHR

2009 Chevrolet HHR

The Chevrolet HHR was launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show back in 2005 for the 2006 model year and from that point on it has been criticized as a Chrysler PT Cruiser copycat. Well, maybe it is, but since the PT Cruiser had been on the market since 1999 (see my recent update), it does seem reasonable that GM would want to get in on the retro wagon market after Chrysler had been in the market without competition for 6 years. What did GM have to bring to the table? Let’s take a look.

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR is styled after the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban and is meant to compete directly with other economy haulers like the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Scion xB, Jeep Compass and Dodge Caliber. There are two positive things about the Chevrolet HHR that standout when comparing it to all of its competition: The SS model and cargo capacity.

2009 Chevrolet HHR

2009 Chevrolet HHR

The HHR SS is a must for those that appreciate performance and handling; it also addresses the common gripes from the automotive press about the standard model’s road manners and sense of control. The HHR SS is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder that produces 260 hp. As an aside, this is the same engine that is in (or was in) the Pontiac Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline (the irony is that both of those models will be terminating here shortly). Other features that get added to the HHR SS package are: leather seating, heated front seats, power driver's seat, stiffer suspension, power moonroof, 260-watt sound system with subwoofer, in-dash six-disc changer, MP3 compatibility and XM Satellite Radio.

 

2009 Chevrolet HHR

2009 Chevrolet HHR

The cargo capacity is something else that has to be highlighted when talking about the Chevrolet HHR. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 63 cubic feet, which puts the HHR in the class leader position. This also makes the HHR Panel SS model, a panel van version, a nice option for business and people who want to haul in style for a reasonable price. However, even in the standard version, most reviews note that the HHR has easy to fold 60/40 split rear seats that create a flat load floor.

 

Overall, TheCarConnection.com rates the 2009 Chevrolet HHR as a 7.2 out of 10. To put this in perspective, they rate the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 6.6 out of 10 on the same scale. The category that really drags the HHR down is Comfort and Quality because it is the general opinion that the HHR lacks refinement and comfort in base and mid-level trim.

 

Bottom line—The 2009 Chevrolet HHR can be a great vehicle if you are looking for a good price point, amble cargo room and some retro style for good measure. If you can over look GM’s normal quality issues, then the HHR will serve you well for years to come.

 

 

Be sure to check out the full review on the 2009 Chevrolet HHR and the other blogs and reviews right here at AllSmallCars.com. Also, see the articles relating to the termination of Pontiac and the Saturn Redline series. 

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