Retro and Unique - The 2009 Chevy HHR

The HHR for 2009 is Chevy?s unique and stylishly designed wagon-SUV. Inspired by its trucks and cars of the '40s, Chevrolet revealed the retro HHR in 2006, offering SUV styling with sedan-like economy. The HHR is a good option for drivers who care more about style and practicality than they do performance. 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, as long as expectations are right the HHR is a fun and practical companion around town. Daytime running lights, driver and front passenger air bags, air conditioning, MP3 capability and a tire pressure monitoring system are standard on all HHR models. The 2009 Chevy HHR comes in three distinctively different configurations: HHR, HHR Panel, and the new HHR SS. The 2009 HHR has a starting MSRP of $18,720 - $24,815.

Powering the HHR

The HHR offers two four-cylinder engines. LS and 1LT models come with an Ecotec 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, while 2LTs get a 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The higher performing SS trim gets a turbocharged 260-horsepower engine.  The higher-level engine takes premium gasoline, while the base engine takes regular. Each comes with a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic.

HHR Drive

Some find engine power too modest for the HHR's hefty size, while others didn't notice any problems. The high-level engine is also optional on 1LT models. Both engines come standard with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed electronically controlled automatic is optional.  The bottom line is the HHR?s engine does offer good fuel economy.  The base engine and manual transmission is expected to net 21 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway. With the 2.4-liter engine, it is expected to 20 in the city and 28 on the highway.  The HHR drives like a retro vehicle should; the shifter catches as it moves through the pattern. The steering is rubbery and very sensitive to road camber.

Inside the 2009 HHR

The Chevy HHR provides for the most part, comfortable and functional surroundings. The HHR SS features a special interior with SS-embroidered sport seats with inserts, a specific gauge cluster, an A-pillar-mounted turbo boost gauge and a new shifter arrangement. The HHR offers great utility. Its 55.6 cubic feet of cargo space doesn't lead the class, but the fact that the seats may be folded flat increases the utility. The cargo surfaces are easy-to-clean and the front passenger seat folds flat for more cargo space, a 60/40 split/fold-flat second-row seat, and a multi-position cargo package tray in the rear that provides cargo security. Finding a comfortable seating position may require some effort, the problem seems to be with the contour of the seatback.  There isn't much headroom in spite of the high roof. Cubby storage is limited. There's a handy flip-up compartment on top of the dash and a small glovebox. The rear provides one cupholder and small door pockets.

Chevy HHR Design

The four-door HHR comes in several trims -- LS, 1LT, 2LT and Special Edition.  A two-seat Panel version with rear cargo doors is targeted mostly at delivery companies. The HHR also has an SS trim for turbocharged power.  Front and rear bumpers are molded from composite material, integrated as part of their respective fascia. The Chevy HHR provides lots of room and functionality without being boxy. It may look like a large vehicle from afar, yet in truth it is a relatively small and low vehicle that you must sit down into to get into the seats. The HHR SS sits only 6 mm lower than its HHR siblings, but sports extended front and rear fascias that give it the appearance of riding much lower.  It has other special design features.  These include a new front fascia with integrated fog lights, and the chrome surround grille.  The new rear fascia provides a cutout for single bright exhaust tip. New rocker moldings resemble accentuated running boards. Body-color door handles, mirror caps and rear license plate surround, along with SS badging on the front doors and rear lift gate.

HHR Panel Model

The HHR Panel features steel inserts in place of side windows and cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors. This model is targeted toward commercial use such as delivery services. The cargo doors open wide enabling cargo access from both sides of the vehicle, as well as from the rear lift gate. Side visibility is obviously limited due to the solid sides without windows; one must rely primarily on mirrors for backing maneuvers. The smooth, windowless sides on the Panel give it a cleaner, retro, more hot rod look than the standard models.

Lineup for 2009

The LS ($16,515) comes with cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a substantial level of standard features and equipment. The Pioneer sound system is optional.

The LT ($17,175) adds an MP3 player with a jack for an iPod, eight ways to adjust the driver's seat, and satin chrome trim.

The 2LT package ($2,395) adds the 2.4-liter Ecotec engine, anti-lock brakes, traction control, fog lights, a 260-watt Pioneer sound system with seven speakers, 17-inch aluminum wheels, sport-tuned suspension and bright chrome trim.

 The HHR Panel 2LT ($20,850) comes with the Satin Chrome exterior package, sports suspension, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels.

Summary

The 2009 HHR is a nostalgic hauler for people who want something different, and who appreciate the classic looks of the 1949 Chevy Suburban. Safety features include optional front and rear side-curtain airbags ($395). ABS comes standard on the 2LT, and is optional for the LS and 1LT ($400).Stabilitrak electronic stability control is now standard across the entire HHR model range. With its lack of all wheel drive the HHR is not suitable for off road travel or extreme weather conditions. In the end, it's all about styling preferences. For more details on pricing and specs, click here.