2006 Chevrolet HHR

Interior

Maybe because they like Chevys better than Chryslers, or because their Chevy dealer is better or more convenient. Maybe for its styling, since the HHR is more truck-like (inspired by Chevy's SSR and '49 Suburban) and the PT more car-like in appearance.


Or for utility. While the PT's cabin is surprisingly roomy, the HHR's added length, height and squared-off rear roof provide more cargo room behind the rear seat. A dash-top storage box with a flip-up cover and three covered bins behind the rear seat offer handy small-item storage, the rear load floor is a two-way shelf with grocery bag hooks, and the right-front seat folds flat to accommodate cargo as long as an 8-ft. ladder.


Or for features. HHR boasts standard A/C, a driver information center, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, 16-inch wheels and tires, privacy glass, cruise control, a touchpad-activated rear liftgate and (with automatic trans) GM's wonderful remote engine start feature. The standard AM/FM/CD sound system has an auxiliary channel and a front-mounted jack for an iPod or other audio source. LT models get standard MP3, while OnStar, XM Satellite Radio and a 260-watt Pioneer enhanced performance system with subwoofer are available.


Or for its newer and somewhat better platform and powertrain. The HHR and PT suspensions are similar in design, but HHR's Delta architecture is structurally stiffer and quieter compared to the PT's Neon-based platform. Both engines are DOHC, 16-valve, electronically fuel-injected fours with twin balance shafts, but GM's aluminum-block, electronic throttle control Ecotec is smoother and quieter. In standard 143-hp 2.2L trim, it's somewhat less powerful, yet (Chevy says) slightly quicker 0-60 than the standard PT. And you'll have to opt for Chrysler's 180-hp turbocharged 2.4L to beat the HHR's available 172-hp 2.4L four. HHR also wins in fuel economy and has a 16.2-gallon fuel tank vs. the PT's 15-gallon tank.

Cargo

HHR debuted in three flavors: base LS and two levels of LT. Pretty much everything you don't see (except the 5-lug hubs to accommodate 5-lug, vs. Cobalt's 4-lug, wheels) is Cobalt. Everything you do see, including the attractive and surprisingly quiet interior, is unique to HHR.