Vigo Motor Show: Chevrolet HHR

Over the years this trend seems to have changed. Cadillac, Chrysler, Hummer, Dodge… several American brands have made a strong debut in Spain in recent years, and Chevrolet is now in a position to start making a 180º turn in its designs and approach.

The HHR may be part of that, or rather, it may be the beginning of it. Its design, inspired by the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban, is impossible not to remind one of a competitor’s model: the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Totally retro, bold, large and spacious, it is an MPV for people who are different and who want a different design.

But unlike that predecessor on the domestic market, the HHR enters the market with price as its selling point. For now there is only one engine option, a 2.4-litre petrol ECOTEC engine with variable valve timing and sequential injection that delivers 170 CV, managed by a manual gearbox or an optional automatic one.

The equipment range is not much more extensive for now; in fact, it comes in just one. The safety features are not an extensive list. It does gain considerably in comfort and includes quite a few interior elements worth noting: heated leather front seats, armrests, power outlets… which give it, at least in appearance, the credentials of a capable MPV.

It also includes features such as electric windows or a radio with MP3, but the usual thing happens; a poorly suited car is of no use, however well equipped. Its striking design does not necessarily translate into effectiveness in terms of safety and driving, and even less so in interior visibility. Interior space is not as good as in other equivalent MPVs (Scénic, Zafira…), and the finishes leave quite a lot to be desired as usual. The plastics give off a rather unpleasant smell and look low quality; on top of that, the interior design and colours make it rather unattractive.

Starting from 28,100 euros (for the peninsula, we assume) my verdict is that it is at least a good buy for those devoted to Yankee design, with good equipment at a good price too. But if we assess the remaining aspects, it no longer looks as worthwhile as it first seemed.

Not to mention, its consumption is not very good, and everyday spare parts such as tyres seem to suffer from the same problem as other American-style models: they are uncommon sizes and therefore expensive. Let’s just say it is one of those purchases where you have to separate head and heart very carefully.

Photos | Eduardo Mariz
Thanks to the dealership Motorgal Vigo