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2006 Chevrolet HHR ::
A new entry for 2006, the Chevrolet HHR is a direct competitor to compact wagons like the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Toyota Matrix and GM's own Pontiac Vibe. HHR stands for Heritage High Roof, and GM says the compact wagon's styling is a tribute to the '49 Suburban. There's no question that the HHR looks an awful lot like the PT, though its boxier lines give it a stronger delivery truck resemblance.
Under the hood of the front-drive HHR you'll find one of two four-cylinder engines. A 143-hp 2.2-liter is standard on base LS and midlevel 1LT models. Optional on the 1LT and standard on the top-line 2LT is a 2.4-liter engine that puts out 172 hp. Even with the 2.4, the HHR doesn't have much spunk down low. Acceleration is more spirited once the engine revs up, though plenty of noise accompanies these efforts. On the plus side, the ride is quiet and comfortable as the front strut/rear torsion beam suspension competently filters out bumps and ruts. Unfortunately, engineers weren't able to work the same magic with the wagon's handling. Body roll is excessive during cornering, and the electric steering is slow and numb. Braking is another problem area, as the HHR exhibits poor straight-line stability during maximum braking efforts.
Inside, driver and passengers sit tall and visibility is excellent in all directions. The HHR is longer than the PT Cruiser or Vibe, and this opens up more space behind its rear seats. For larger jobs, the plastic-backed rear seats fold completely flat as in the Matrix/Vibe. With 63 cubic feet, the HHR has as much total cargo capacity as the PT and, unlike in the Chrysler, you don't have to completely remove the rear seats.
Overall, the HHR does provide practical family transportation in a retro wrapper, but so does the PT Cruiser. And for a couple hundred dollars more, you can get a turbo PT with quicker acceleration, tighter handling and better brakes. If you want a stylish family wagon, the Chrysler is the better way to go. |
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