Photo gallery: 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS
Chevrolet has just announced the next major salvo in the Great Comeback of the SS: The 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS, complete with 260 horsepower turbocharged engine, performance-tuned suspension and boy-racer styling.
The back story: Responsibility for SS models recently fell into the hands of GM's Performance Division. In recent years, the SS badge has become little more than a sporty trim level. An important part of GMPD's mission is to restore the SS moniker's prestige and credibility. At a recent track event, GMPD staffers told us they would do this by ensuring that future SS models "go, stop and turn" significantly better than their non-SS counterparts.
Analysis: Having driven the first two GMPD-devised SS models, the Trail Blazer SS and Cobalt SS Supercharged, on the track, and having experienced the 2.0 turbo motor in the 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP, I really think GMPD can achieve its goal of restoring the SS moniker's luster. The HHR seems a bit of an odd candidate, but if GMPD can make a TrailBlazer work on the track, I know they can do it for the HHR. I'm a die-hard Honda fan, but I'd love nothing more than to see some good ol' American sport-compact iron that can take the imports to task. I can't wait to drive this thing. And if the Dodge Caliber SRT-4 (now rumored to be at 280 hp) ever actually shows up, the HHR SS will have some solid domestic competition, too.
For more info and photos, check out my 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS photo gallery. Thoughts on the HHR SS or the comeback of the SS nameplate? Can Chevy really pull this off? Click the "comments" link below and share your thoughts. -- Aaron Gold
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Photo © General Motors
A HHR panel truck with the 260 HP motor, 18 inch 5 spoke wheels, w i d e tires, a little toy wing over the back and a big honkin flame job……….SWEET!
This is too cool! I was thinking of an HHR for my next vehicle, and this would probably have been the one for me….but then Camaro happened. So I’ll wait for the Camaro SS or Z-28. But keep up the good work Chevy. You’re on the right track (pun intended)!
I have an hhr lt and it handles well considering it has the shape of a ups truck going backward. I bet the ss will be very fast indeed…but no rear wheel/4wheel drive? With that much power in the front, how much will actually make it to the road?