Carz Arena

2009 Chevrolet HHR SS Turbo
IN FLEET: Oct. 8-15
AS-TESTED PRICE: $26,970
DRIVETRAIN: 2.0-liter turbocharged I4; FWD, five-speed manual
OUTPUT: 260 hp @5,300 rpm, 260 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 3,280 LB
FUEL ECONOMY: (EPA/AW) 24/22.7 mpg

SENIOR EDITOR (NEWS) BOB GRITZINGER: Call this the Chevy conundrum. The HHR SS looks old and retro, like a shrunken Suburban from 60 years ago, but at the same time, the body mods, the powertrain and the interior make it feel like a current-day sports car. There’s plenty of turbo power on tap, ample braking and the handling you’d

expect from a highly strung small car. It’s quick and crazy, with insane torque steer on roads with any kind of crown. Because of that, I wouldn’t want this car if my regular drives involved gravel back roads or highly crowned two-lane blacktop. Like other turbo fours in the General Motors portfolio, this one can be mechanical and tractorish in the sounds emanating from under the hood. The power is there, but the noises aren’t so pleasant.

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT JONATHAN WONG: The overall design is good and easy to navigate, but I do wish for a larger tach on the gauge cluster. The seats are very flat, with little bolster; my back got achy after just 150 miles. Pull from the forced-induction engine is strong, and, as Bob mentioned, torque steer is the order when you lay into it. It takes corners well for a tall wagon, probably helped nicely by the limited-slip included in the optional performance package. Body roll is minimal and will make running around expressway on- and off-ramps entertaining. However, the stiffer shocks and springs specific to the SS are still comfortable to ride around on for normal jogs. Steering feels good, with quick response and nice feedback, and brake performance from the four-pot Brembos in front is much appreciated.