Retro
is in. As manufacturers add new models to their collection,
they find that overall the retro look is becoming more
and more popular. We all know the successes of the New
Beetle, the Mini and the PT
Cruiser. Chevrolet’s answer to the PT is the
HHR, introduced at the Los
Angeles Auto Show in 2005. It’s a lovable
and practical automobile, and yes, it comes in funky
colors. Our tester’s iridescent purple—majestic
amethyst metallic to be exact—played chameleon
with us as we photographed it from different angles.
Although
the HHR behaves like a car, GM parks it in their truck
division. Call it a crossover if you’d like. If
you fold down the rear seats, you get a thoughtfully
designed cargo vehicle, yet it’s small and easy
to drive. It’s nothing like a truck, despite the
fact that the HHR, whose name has something to do with
heritage, is based on the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban and
has family resemblance to the new SSR.
“The
HHR is what you want it to be, whether you’re
hauling band equipment around the country or hauling
your friends across town,” said Lori Queen, GM
vehicle line executive for small cars. “With its
unmistakable styling and innovative features, the HHR
is further proof that there is a new spirit at Chevrolet.”
We
found it gave us a comfortable ride with limited sway,
and we enjoyed the touring suspension. Even at 80 mph
on the freeway, the car was stable, quiet and comfortable
but still had plenty of power to put highway patrol
on alert. There are also plenty of other goodies, like
an auxiliary glove box, a folding front passenger seat,
tachometer and drive info center, and an electronic
rear-door switch. Base price is around $16,000, but
our tester came with anti-lock brakes (rear drum), side
head curtain airbags and other assorted options.
We
truly loved the car for what it is, especially if you
figure in price and the relatively decent fuel economy. 
Warranty/Service: 3-Year/36,000 Mile Limited Warranty.
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