Surprisingly smooth and quiet

The Chevy HHR LT2 with the new 2.4 liter Ecotech variable valve timing engine is surprisingly smooth and quiet for a four cylinder small car. Essentially the wagon version of the Cobalt, the HHR benefits from a proven and popular platform, but adds fun styling and a more functional and flexible interior.

The 2.4 offers smooth power delivery without fuss or noise. The sophisticated engine is complimented by clever engineering such as the use of special laminated steel in the firewall to dramatically reduce noise transmission from the engine bay to the interior.

The ride was smoother than expected, with far less noise and harshness than in the similar but more dated mechanically Chrysler PT Cruiser. The HHR's ride and power are also superior to the Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix twins. The Vibe/Matrix is based on Corolla mechanicals and is another high roof hatchback that invites comparison.

Of special note is the HHR dashboard's center stack. The radio and heater controls are far nicer than any recent GM mass market product, reminding me more of Honda's Accord. Similarly, the new three-spoke steering wheel is a major improvement over the interior offerings on the Malibu.

The HHR's four doors open wide for easy access. The hood and hatch are both supported by hydraulic lifts when open. The space inside is excellent for four full-size adults because of the chair height seats. It won't hold plywood like a van, but it can carry 8' 2"x4"s with the rear seats and right front seat folded flat. Overall the interior features some clever flexibility to balance cargo and people -- flexibility that a sedan or coupe can't match.

What could be turn-offs? First the styling is not for everyone. The retro styling recalls the heritage of 1950s Chevy trucks, especially the original Suburban panel truck. It works for me. It does have some trade-offs. The visibility inside is restricted by thick window pillars and rather narrow windows. The cup holders are small and located low, on the floor between the seats, and compromised by the parking brake lever. A better design choice may have been a center console armrest option. I would have preferred four-wheel disc brakes even though the feel and performance of the front disc and rear drum set-up was good. Drums just doesn't look as good through the optional bright chrome 17" wheels. Similarly, stability control probably makes sense given the high roof profile, but is absent from the option list, even though anti-lock brakes and traction control are available. The automatic transmission should be a five-speed not a four-speed and should have an auto-stick option, like Chrysler's. In fairness, the HHR's price offers a great value even with these minor nit picks.

What's unique? Chevy's recent quality record is very good; witness the Malibu. The feel and sound of the optional 2.4 liter four-cylinder is as good as any four cylinder engine, foreign or domestic. It is sewing machine smooth. It delivers 30 mpg highway EPA ratings, even with only a four speed automatic transmission. GM's unique OnStar is a worthwhile safety option along with the HHR's available side curtain airbags. Reviews indicate average fuel economy (mixed highway and city) in real world driving in the high twenties. That's pretty great fuel economy for a car that can substitute for an SUV for anyone who doesn't need to go off road.

In the end it will be the HHR's styling that sells. The HHR invites customization. I've had a devil of a time finding a vehicle that my wife, teenage daughter and I could all agree upon. The PT Cruiser (which I like), looks like a hearse to them (the curve of the rear hatch). The HHR by contrast works. You won't die of boredom either like too many other mass market priced cars.