2006 Chevrolet HHR Test Drive

Retro Utility

It may look like an old car on the outside but not only is the 2006 Chevrolet HHR thoroughly modern on the inside, it's a blast to drive. Modeled after the fabled workhorse of the late '40s and '50s, the Suburban panel van the new HHR is actually based on a small car, Chevy's excellent Cobalt. Fuel economy: 23 city/30 highway. MSRP: $15,990 (base model Warranty: 3/36,000._z_cars_z_);

First Glance

Chevrolet was inspired by the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban and I can't say the HHR is really any better looking (that's good or bad depending on your point of view). In any event, the HHR is Chevrolet's take on Chrysler's retro car, the PT Cruiser.

However, there are some interesting design touches reinforcing the retro theme: the '40s style windshield with its thick pillars, the sturdy built-in running boards, the rounded newsboy cap hood, the massive step-on style rear bumper (I'm not sure if you're actually meant to step on it, however).

This retro-look comes at a major expense, however: visibility. Visibility is poor out the front in large part because the windshield or A-pillar is too thick at the base. Visibility is also lousy out the rear view mirror because the C-pillar is too thick. What visibility the C-pillar doesn't block, the big, non-folding rear seat headrests succeed in obscuring. If this isn't a safety issue, it's certainly a major inconvenience.

But retro is mostly about fun, isn’t it? On that count the HHR succeeds in spades. It’s a fun car both to drive and to be seen in.

In the Driver's Seat

I have to confess I'm a small car kind of guy. Well, let me qualify that: I like cars that are small on the outside but roomy on the inside. Unfortunately, the HHR is not one of these.

From the outside it looks as if it should be far bigger inside than it actually is. The passenger compartment is quite narrow and, in fact, one slightly oversize friend said he found it claustrophobic. This impression was due in some part, no doubt, to the hooded windows - a styling trait carried over from the vintage Suburban.

As a 42-regular, on the other hand, I found the cabin of the HHR a very pleasant place to spend time. I started looking for excuses to get into it and just put on some miles, which, frankly, doesn't happen to me all that often these days.

The "wagon" body style (top-hinged hatch) is very handy and the rear seats can be folded flat to make a long bed. If extra-long objects have to be carried the front passenger seat also folds flat. Take note young families: you'll find schleping around baby stuff is as easy in HHR as any SUV you might be considering.

On the Road

The HHR is a vehicle most buyers will choose because of its retro, attention-getting styling rather than for its practicality, its performance or its fuel economy. Yet, once you've lived with it for a few days, you'll be amazed at just how practical you'll find it and just how quick and relatively economical it is to drive.

The base engine is GM's excellent, very reliable 2.2L Duratec, which was originally developed in Australia for GM’s Holden line of automobiles. The 2.2L puts out 143hp (with 150 lb-ft of torque). It moves the HHR smartly off the line and really doesn’t start to huff until the needle goes past 55mph.

While the front disc with rear drum brakes work well, I have to say it makes Chevy look cheap. ABS is optional, which is inexcusable from a safety point of view given North American driving conditions. It should be standard on every new car. Electronic stability control is optional but only available with the ABS package. Hyundai puts 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS and stability control on its brilliant new Accent, which sells for thousands less. The missing equipment makes Chevy look like all they are doing is trying to jack up the price (which of course they are doing but it leaves a sour taste in one's mouth).

Journey's End

The HHR was created to bring a little bit of low cost excitement to Chevy showrooms. GM's marketing department is no doubt hoping that mom and the kids will drag the old man in to take a look at the neat retro car. Then once he's in the showroom, the sales guy can steer him over to a big ol' hog of a SUV.

Is that what made Chevrolet introduce the HHR when it seems the whole retro is winding down (that can be debated, of course, but the PT Cruiser is certainly showing signs of slowing down)? Perhaps Chevy knows something Chrysler doesn't or maybe Chevy thinks it wasn't retro itself that peaked, just the PT Cruiser.

I can't really say the HHR is a better automobile than the PT Cruiser, which I’ve always liked (except for its abysmal fuel economy). Although quality can be subjective, the HHR appears to be at least on a par with the domestic competition. However, there's an overall impression of cheap when compared with similar priced small wagons like the Vibe or the Mazda3. It's a shame Chevy did that to the HHR because it's really a very handy, very right-sized vehicle. It's also a hoot to drive.