2009 Chrysler HHR Review

Specifications

The HHR is Chevrolet’s answer to the popularity of the Chrysler PT Cruiser. It has similar retro lines with flared wheel fenders and a curved solid stamped steel hood. The flared fenders gently tuck in at the bottom to molded rocker panels, lending the HHR a solid, uniform and well-finished stance. Thick window pillars and low windows give a gangster look to the vehicle and the round rear taillights have an old Corvette feel to them. However, the retro design is as far as the ‘old’ part of HHR goes, the rest of this unique SUV is pure technology-based modern innovation.

The HHR is available in two body styles - the four-door passenger version with a rear lift gate for cargo and the two door HHR Panel with its innovative three cargo doors for easy access to any load. Both the HHR and the HHR Panel come in the base LS model, LT1, LT2 and SS super sport version.

The LS model comes stock with the Ecotec 2.2L 4-cyclinder while the LT2 is upgraded to the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. The LT1 has a choice of engine. The 2.2L Ecotec engine offers variable valve timing for greater efficiency and performance as well as a slight increase of horsepower, allowing for a remarkable 500 miles between stopping for a fill-up!

New in 2009, both the 2.2L and the 2.4L are FlexFuel capable - they can run on regular gasoline or ethanol E85. The LS, LT1 and LT2 models come standard with the F23 5-sp manual transmission with the option of the 4T45 4-sp automatic.

The performance-oriented SS model comes standard with the Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine and the F35 5 sp transmission. The engine is the most powerful of the Chevrolet engines with a direct-injection technology that produces more power while maintaining a lower fuel consumption of a similarly sized port-injected engine. New to the Chevrolet line, the F35 features ‘no-lift shift’ - for faster acceleration, the driver does not need to lift his foot from the throttle as the engine compensates automatically to help make changing gears quicker. Other improvements include a 30% shorter ‘throw’ between gears so shifting is faster and almost effortless and the shifter is located in a higher, more intuitive position.

Don’t believe the HHR SS can be all that performance minded? It set a new lap record for its class at Nürburgring racing circuit in Germany where all GM Performance Division-developed vehicles are tested. It reaches 60 mph from a stand still in 6.3 seconds and all of that while maintaining 29 mpg on the highway. Add the ability to switch the driving mode to performance or competitive which adjusts chassis controls, increases the handling of the vehicle and turns off traction control for tight, controlled manoeuvring and you have a race car built for the freeways!

The HHR Panel offers greater access to cargo through the back seat doors. There are no windows in either these doors or rear quarter panels, the HHR Panel offers a wide variety of options that are ideal for businesses or anyone wanting a big blank canvas to decorate their vehicles. For added convenience, the Panel also offers a 120-volt power supply in the cargo area as well as a 40-watt plug in for specialty equipment.

The interior of the HHR is as innovative as its exterior and drive train but the quality of the materials used is a let down. There is an incredible amount of standard equipment and features including XM radio, Bluetooth connection of audio devices and hands-free calling, OnStar, AM/FM stereo with CD, USB port and AUX input jack, a/c, power windows, power locks, power outside mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, forward folding passenger seat that folds flat and standard Driver Information Center. Rear seats fold flat and include the LATCH system for holding two approved children’s baby seats.

The SS model has its own interior features such as contrasting interior colors, SS logos embroidered on the enhanced support sport seats, Driver Information Center that allows driver to change driving modes and a unique, racing style instrument cluster.

The HHR continues to score five stars in crash ratings in both front on and side impact tests. Standard equipment includes dual-stage front air bags for both driver and passenger with the passenger side system able to differentiate between adults, small children and child seats and adjusts air bag deployment accordingly. Roof rail airbags are standard on all models for 2009 and help protects occupants in side impact accidents.

New wheel sizes, better stereo systems, power sunroof, heated leather seats, cargo area space savers, load organizers while continuously upgrading the drive train and handling abilities of this compact SUV will continue to push the HHR to new levels of comfort and innovation.

Perfect for on the road, fabulous on the racetrack, keep your eye on the HHR and HHR Panel as these vehicles are breaking new ground each year and will continue to lead the pack for their class.