2010 Chevy HHR Review

The 2010 HHR represents a unique compact wagon from Chevrolet. A newcomer to the growing compact wagon scene is the Chevrolet HHR. HHR, which stands for "Heritage High Roof," is inspired by the '49 Suburban and offers a tall retro-wagon styling, which Chevrolet claims. For shoppers searching for a versatile compact wagon that's also stylish, the HHR certainly merits consideration. For 2010 four trim levels are offered: LS, 1LT, 2LT and SS. A passenger version is available as well as a panel van version. The 2010 HHR has an MSRP of $18,720 - $26,255 and an estimated MPG of 22 City / 32 Hwy. Inspired by its trucks and cars of the '40s, Chevrolet first revealed the retro HHR in 2006, offering SUV styling with sedan-like economy. The nostalgic design has remained a pleasing and practical vehicle for families and commuters alike, really for anyone looking for a unique design with a roomy cabin. The Chevrolet HHR carries over with minimal changes for 2010. A power sunroof is now standard on the SS trim.

HHR Power and Handling

Both the LS and 1LT are powered by a 155-horsepower, 2.2-liter inline-4, while the 1LT offers the option of a 172-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 2LT includes the bigger engine as well as 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension and a premium stereo. The athletic SS comes with a turbocharged 260-hp 2.0-liter engine, a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and special exterior and interior accents. All HHRs have antilock brakes, stability control and side curtain airbags as standard. The Chevrolet HHR is a compact four-door wagon that shares its front-wheel-drive architecture -- and thus many of its driving characteristics -- with the Chevrolet Cobalt.

All the trims offer roughly the same EPA fuel economy ratings regardless of engine or transmission choice, the latter limited to five-speed manual or four-speed automatic units. The Chevy HHR is available only with front-wheel drive, while several competitors offer all-wheel drive for enhanced foul-weather capability. The HHR offers smooth and quiet ride, ample cargo space, attractive interior, excellent visibility and versatile sound system. Noted downsides included weak brakes, bland handling dynamics and a lack of low-end pull and refinement from the 2.4-liter engine. The SS version offers spirited performance, stronger braking and buttoned-down handling.

2010 Chevy HHR Design

The HHR may be based on a retro design, yet everything else about the vehicle, however, is decidedly modern. A more aggressive exterior styling, rear spoiler, polished 18-inch forged alloy wheels and unique upholstery are exclusive to the SS. Front and rear bumpers are molded from composite material, integrated as part of their respective fascia. The Chevy HHR offers a more traditional look than other vehicles in its competitive set. It provides lots of room and functionality without being boxy. The HHR SS sits lower than its stable mates, but sports extended front and rear fascias that give it the appearance of riding much lower. The front fascia features an air-dam design with integrated fog lights, and the grille comes with mesh-style upper and lower grille inserts. The new rear fascia provides a cutout for a single bright exhaust tip. Rocker moldings somewhat resemble accentuated running boards. Out back, a rear spoiler is mounted above the rear glass. Body-color door handles, mirror caps and the rear license plate surround, along with SS badging on the front doors and liftgate, further differentiate the SS from the others.

Inside the 2010 HHR

 Though compact in size, the Chevy HHR features clever interior packaging solutions, including a split-folding rear seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat and a cargo area floor that allows it to accommodate bulky and/or long cargo items. The cabin, unlike those of most other small GM vehicles, boasts nicely detailed gauges, pleasing radio graphics, tight construction and substantial-feeling controls. The HHR's tall ceiling provides headroom aplenty, but the narrow body limits comfort for adults riding in the backseat. 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. The front-passenger seatback offers a tight storage net. Side windows are controlled on the console by buttons located just ahead of the gear-shift lever, making them inconvenient to operate with ease; positioning them on the door would have been much better.

The HHR Panel provides seating for two and a large, flat cargo floor with tie-down points to help hold things in place. The HHR Panel cargo area features a standard auxiliary power outlet, as well as a 40-amp auxiliary power connector to provide service for a variety of specialty equipment needs. Two large storage compartments, with a lockable option, are located forward under the cargo floor (in place of the rear seats of the passenger models).The compartments offer security for things such as computer equipment, flashlights, service manuals and other valuables.

HHR Trim Levels

The 2010 Chevrolet HHR LS comes with air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, power locks, cruise control, and a substantial level of standard features and equipment.

The HHR LT adds remote start as standard, an eight-way power driver's seat, driver's lumbar support, and the availability of many more optional extras, including a Bright Chrome Appearance Package, which includes 16-inch chrome alloy wheels, and the Sun and Fun Edition, which includes sunroof and the 16-inch wheels.

The HHR 2LT adds the LT Equipment Group which includes the 2.4-liter engine, 17-inch chrome alloy wheels, fog lamps, running boards, FE3 sport suspension, Bluetooth connectivity, leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, and a Pioneer audio system with seven speakers and 260 watts.

The HHR SS adds the turbocharged engine, performance handling suspension, 18-inch polished alloy wheels, SS embroidered seats, a rear spoiler, and other items.

Conclusions

Safety features on every HHR include stability and traction control systems, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, front airbags, overhead curtain airbags for front and rear passengers and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Chevy HHR is a practical cruiser that lends itself to personalizing and customization. It's available with three different Ecotec engines, depending upon the model. In the end, it's all about styling preferences. View Chevy's official 2010 HHR site for the latest updates on this model.