2005 Chevrolet HHR Review

Specifications

Utility, Fun and Frugality Define Retro Wagon

Pictures can be deceiving, especially when it comes to an objects size. Case in point: the new Chevy HHR. When I first espied photos of Chevys pre-production, concept HHR, I speculated that its size would be similar to their Trailblazer, a slightly larger than mid-size SUV. Then I reviewed the specifications and realized the HHR was indeed a compact wagon, not a big SUV.

Seeing the compact model in the metal surprised me even further; the HHR is not even mid-size. In fact at 176.2 inches in overall length its 4 inches shorter than Chevys 4-door Cobalt on which it is based. Yet the HHR is bigger in every exterior dimension than Chryslers PT Cruiser, although curiously it has a smaller maximum cargo-volume rating of 63.1 cu-ft than the PTs 64.2 cu-ft of carrying space - go figure. Although it may be a few cubic feet shy of a full PT, the HHR can completely ingest an 8-foot ladder when its front passenger seat back is folded down.

Conceptually, the size of the HHR is probably pretty clear at this point, so lets focus on the vehicles unique styling. The letters “HHR” represent the vehicles main design element of a high heritage roof, in reference to its resemblance to the late 1940s to early 1950s Chevy Suburbans. Its this binary, love it or hate it styling that makes the HHR so uniquely appealing or unappealing, depending on your binary code. Personally I think the good ole boys at Chevy have done a remarkable job of seamlessly blending post-war design elements into a modern edition of an extremely functional compact wagon. Yet the true beauty of the HHR isnt its throwback sheet metal, its practicality, or even its superior build quality. No, its its price. I cant think of any other vehicle that offers a hotter combination of utility, fun and frugality for a Canadian base price of $15,990.

The frugality in this equation isnt restricted just to the HHRs low cost of ownership thanks to a choice between two fuel stingy, GM Ecotec DOHC four-bangers. First up is a 2.2-liter (134 cu in) base unit spooling out 143-horsepower and 150 foot-pounds of torque. For a few dollars extra, a more potent 2.4-liter (145 cu in), 172-horsepower mill is available, which features Variable Valve Timing (VVT); such was the bad boy powering this weeks tester. Apart from auditory accompaniment, this unit ran smooth and revved freely. Its a well-balanced powerplant capable of scooting the 3,208 lb HHR about town with surprising haste, but like most 4-cylinder powered vehicles, the HHR isnt as brag-worthy when it comes to highway passing. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed the engines scrappiness at lower speeds, and its engaging exhaust note. Look for combined city and highway fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg for both engines when buckled to the automatic transmission.

The beefier engine in my tester is confirmation that it was the upscale LT version of the HHR rather than the entry-level LS - although the engine option can be deleted if all you want is the show without the go. Along with the bravado of the bigger engine, LT trim includes a firmer “touring” suspension, leading to improved athleticism over the stock LS springs. But with the handling edge comes a stiffer ride quality that is fairly typical of small wagons. Both trim levels utilize a strut-type setup and stabilizer bar at the front with a semi-independent torsion beam arrangement and stabilizer bar at the rear. My test unit also gained the traction boost imparted by the LTs optional 17-inch aluminum wheels. The compilation of stout springs and bigger tires produced a very good handling, easy to control wagon that held no untoward surprises when suddenly engaged in directional changes, which is good given that a vehicle stability program is not available with the HHR. However, when an automatic transmission and antilock brakes (ABS) both appear on the spec sheet, GMs Enhanced Traction System (ETS), traction assist program is also included.

The optional HHR autobox is a 4-speed overdrive unit sans a manual mode. If swapping gears manually is preferred, a 5-speed Getrag gearbox arrives as standard equipment. My tester was of the automatic ilk. It dropped gears quickly when the throttle was thrust open and performed admirably overall, as did the HHRs antilock brakes. They felt powerful and fade resistant throughout my testing, which was impressive given the front disc, rear drum arrangement found with all HHR trim levels. A disappointing aspect of the “braking news” is that ABS isnt included in the list of standard LS equipment. It slays me that manufacturers continue to offer “good” and “better” brakes; why not just make them all the best they can be, and throw in a stability control program while theyre at it. Really, how much more per unit would that cost?

Standard safety gear at all trim levels includes dual front airbags, child-security rear door locks, keyless entry, height adjustable front seat belts and a theft deterrent system. Optional safety emplacements include front and rear, side head curtain airbags and an OnStar in-car communications system. The list of standard HHR comfort and convenience fare is very generous, exclusive of the safety items I mentioned, and includes 6-speaker radio/CD audio, air conditioning and pollen filtration, cruise control, driver info center, tilt steering, power windows, power locks and power mirrors. Going full uptown in LT mode will net a 6-way power adjustable drivers seat, heated front seats, leather upholstery, premium audio, leather wrapped steering wheel, remote starting and elctro-chromatic rearview mirror.

The raised roofline of the HHR opens its cabin up quite notable, providing what is essentially a small vehicle with plenty of headroom and cargo space; plus the HHR isnt shy of legroom either. The optional leather covered furniture in my test unit was very supportive, enabling plenty of driver comfort during long stages behind the wheel. Fold-down armrests added to occupant comfort in the front. In addition to a conventional glove box, an auxiliary storage bin is inset mid-point in the dashboard. It, along with the various storage pockets located throughout the vehicle keeps clutter to a minimum when travelling. However if a Grande java is a mandatory on-road partner, be careful. The dual cupholders found between the front seats are very awkward to access; trust me, I know. They are simply positioned too low and out of view to use without distraction.

Also oddly positioned are the power window switches. They reside very low on the center stack, and again require too much driver attention to easily operate. Apart from these location peculiarities the HHRs cabin is well thought-out, if a little on the hard-plastic side. But hey keep it in perspective. This is not an expensive vehicle to slide into, which is why I also wont decry the bargain basement door pulls. Rather I shall laud the HHR, saying that it is a pleasure to drive. No, more than that. It is fun to drive, although its smallish retro windows can sometimes restrict the drivers visual field.

I really believe that Chevy has exercised commendable boldness in moving forward with a retro design for their latest compact wagon. The highly practical HHR is reportedly selling very well, which by style alone is easy to understand. When the full package is contemplated, I dont think there is any other vehicle that offers a hotter combination of utility, fun and frugality. Well, other than a heavily discounted (and they always are) PT Cruiser.