Chevrolet aims to blend the styling of the original 1949 Suburban with their sporty SSR roadster pickup in this PT Cruiser knock-off. The problem? Chrysler released the PT ages ago, and the craze has since died out. So GM is just a bit late with this one.
The HHR, based on the Cobalt sedan, rounds out Chevrolet's attack on the small car market, which began last year with the Aveo and continued recently with the Cobalt. This small wagon is packed with clever storage features and uses a choice of Ecotec 4-cylinder engines. The standard choice is a 2.2-liter making 140 hp, while a sportier model uses a 2.4-liter pushing out 170 hp.
Obviously trying to steal a bit of Scion thunder, the Chevy will offer youthful options such as a Pioneer sound system, XM satellite radio, 17-inch wheels, and remote start. Also, the wagon's massive 16.2 gallon fuel tank is said to give the HHR a range of over 400 miles per tank. Chevrolet plans to have the HHR reach dealerships in the second half of 2005.