Chevrolet HHR

Inspired by its trucks and cars of the '40s, Chevrolet revealed the retro HHR in 2006, offering SUV styling with sedan-like economy. The nostalgic design is not only pleasing but practical, as the boxy 4-door shape lends itself to increased interior space. The Chevrolet HHR receives upgraded safety features for 2009, with stability and traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes and overhead curtain airbags becoming standard equipment on all trim levels.

The HHR is available in three trim levels: LS, LT and SS. A 149-hp 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission are standard on LS and LT trims; a 172-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is also available for the LT. The performance-oriented SS trim gets a 260-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission is optional on all trims. Daytime running lights, driver and front passenger air bags, air conditioning, MP3 capability and a tire pressure monitoring system are standard on all HHR models; LT trims add alloy wheels and a power driver's seat. An optional 2LT package further equips the LT with features that include a sport-tuned suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheel/shift knob and fog lights; these features are standard on SS trims. A more aggressive exterior styling, polished 18-inch forged alloy wheels, rear spoiler and unique upholstery are exclusive to the HHR SS. New for 2009, satellite radio is now standard on all trim levels, and SS trims get Bluetooth wireless connectivity.