Chevrolet's HHR debuted in 2006 to much enthusiasm among entry-level car buyers, selling over 100,000 units in its first year. The attention-grabbing style continues in 2010, featuring a big chrome grille and a long, smoothly curved hood reminiscent of Chevy's 1949 Suburban. The rear tailgate is framed by two small, round taillights, making the HHR one of the most unique looking vehicle in Chevrolet's lineup.
The HHR's front wheel drive platform is borrowed from the Chevy Cobalt, yet is aimed at those looking for more style and greater cargo room than the Cobalt provides. HHRs come in either 4-door models or 2-door "Panel" models.
As in 2009, the 2010 HHR comes in three trims: the LS (base), the LT and the sporty SS. The Panel versions of the HHR come in either the LS or the LT trim. The LT base trim is also known as 1LT, while a 2LT accessory package is available, which features a premium sound system, fog lamps, steering wheel controls, chrome wheels and other accents.
The base LS and the 1LT come with a 2.2L inline 4-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 150 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. The 2LT comes with a 2.4L inline-4 engine, which puts out 172 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 167 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. The top-of-the-line sporty SS trim has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, 260 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 260 pounds-feet of torque at 2000 rpm. All models are front wheel drive and come with four doors, except for the Panel trims, which come with just two doors. The standard 5-speed manual transmission can be upgraded to a 4-speed automatic on all trims.
The base LS comes with standard 16-inch wheels and many common standard features, such as cruise control, air conditioning, power doors and windows. Floor mats, luggage rack, MP3 player and remote engine start are some of the options available on the base LS.
The 1LT trim adds a power driver's seat and cargo net as standard. Available options for the 1LT include steering wheel controls, a leather wrapped steering wheel, leather seats, heated front seats and power lumbar support.
The 2LT package, which adds about $1,700 to the price, adds a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, premium sound system, fog lamps, steering wheel controls, wireless cell phone hookup and chrome 17-inch wheels.
The sporty SS comes standard with all the 2LT features plus a rear spoiler, 18-inch forged alloy wheels and unique upholstery. The performance-oriented SS gets its power from the same 260 horsepower 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that propels the Solstice GXP and Sky Redline. In addition, the HHR SS comes with 4-wheel disc brakes, a stiffer suspension and fog lights. Inside, high-bolster seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel keep up with the performance theme.
Standard safety features on all HHRs include StabiliTrak stability control, 4-wheel ABS, a full array of airbags front and back and a tire pressure monitoring system.
For those looking to haul more goods than people, the HHR can be ordered in a Panel configuration, which deletes the rear doors, rear windows, and rear seat, allowing users to stuff 57.7 cubic feet of cargo into the vehicle.
Upgraded wheels, audio systems and a variety of comfort and luxury features are available across the model range, allowing buyers to choose their level of customization. Running boards are standard on the 2LT, optional on 1LT and LS. A sliding sunroof/moonroof is standard on the SS and optional on on LTs.
Retro And Practical Styling
Flexible Interior Configuration
Fuel-efficient Cargo Mover, FlexFuel-capable On Most Trims
The 2010 Chevrolet HHR is little changed from 2009. The only major change is that an SS trim of the HHR Panel is no longer available.
HHR stands for "Heritage High Roof," and it is the high roof that provides ample interior headroom and generous cargo volume. Combined with a highly configurable interior, including removable rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat, the HHR is a versatile passenger and cargo hauler. Captain-style seating allows good visibility and SUV appeal.
