2010 Chevrolet HHR Review

Overview

The 2010 Chevrolet HHR is a quiet and compact four-door; five-passenger wagon endowed with more power and new safety technologies. The HHR lineup includes HHR LS, HHR 1LT, HHR 2LT, HHR Panel LS, HHR Panel 1LT, HHR 2LT, and HHR SS models. The 2010 Chevrolet HHR, mainly a carryover model from 2009, is a smooth, front-wheel drive wagon named for its "Heritage High Roof" styling inspired by the Chevrolet Suburban. Built on the same platform as the Cobalt, the HHR?s major competitors in the segment include Honda Element and Jeep Compass. The HHR?s key competitors include Ford Escape, Jeep Liberty, Scion xB, Honda Element, and Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Power and performance

The LS model comes with a fuel-efficient 2.2L engine rated at 149 horsepower. The LT model is equipped with a 2.4L engine rated at 175 horsepower. With either engine, the HHR is rated at 30 mph in highway. Both these engines are capable of functioning on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. The SS trim comes with a 260-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Optional on all other trims is a four-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2.2-liter engine stand at 22 mpg in the city and 32 on the highways with the manual transmission; a similarly equipped 2.4-liter model has a 22/32 rating. The HHR SS models are surprisingly fuel efficient given the extra performance, having a 21/29 city/highway mpg rating with the manual.

Body and styling

The Chevrolet HHR offers the ride of a car, a highly configurable interior, and a bold design that stands out from the crowd. All 2010 Chevrolet HHR trims come standard with daytime running lights, air conditioning, MP3 capability, driver and front passenger air bags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The LT trims get alloy wheels and a power driver's seat. The HHR Panel gets windowless side panels and rear cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors. A flat load floor gives more than 57 cubic feet of cargo space, along with approximately 5 cubic feet of additional covered, under-floor storage. Inside, the HHR Panel has seating for two and a large, flat cargo floor. Tie-down points are located strategically on the floor. Power front seats, a family of radios with MP3 capability and OnStar are available on LS and LT models. LT models also offer XM Satellite Radio, 17-inch wheels and leather-appointed seating. A sport-tuned suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheel/shift knob and fog lights, standard on the SS trims, are a part of the optional 2LT Package available for LT trims. The top of the line SS trim gets an impressive and aggressive exterior styling, polished 18-inch forged alloy wheels, rear spoiler, and unique leather upholstery. Satellite Radio is now standard on all Chevrolet HHR trim levels and SS trims come with Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

Safety Features

The Express Passenger Van comes with comprehensive safety and security features to protect passengers before, during and after a collision. All Passenger Vans are equipped with head curtain-side air bags to provide a higher level of protection in the event of a side impact or a vehicle rollover. The Chevy Express Passenger Van breaks new ground in the segment by offering head-curtain side-impact air bags as a standard feature. Shoulder belts for center seats, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and StabiliTrak are also standard. Enhanced Technology Glass (ETG) is standard on 2500 and 3500 Express Passenger Van models.