Chevrolet HHR Panel SUV Review


SUV Reviewer

The Chevrolet HHR Panel is one of the models of the HHR four-door wagon, but is designed for those who plan to frequently transport large and bulky items. The Chevrolet HHR Panel has only two front seats and no rear seats and the rear cargo pane; doors and rear quarter panels have no windows and are opened by remote release. The model adds storage compartments on the cargo floor and a rear 40-amp power point for electronic equipment. It sports a retro-wagon look that distinguishes it from other models.

The Chevrolet HHR Panel is available in two trim levels: the LS and the LT. The LS model has 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control and tilt-adjustable steering wheel with controls mounted for the cruise control, cloth seats, air conditioning, power window and door locks, power steering which is electric, an audio system with AM/FM stereo and six speakers and CD player with a three-month subscription to XM Satellite Radio, driver seat with adjustable height, bucket front seats and a passenger seat that folds flat. There are also several power outlets in the front, the rear and one in the cargo area and storage bins that are lockable.

The LT model of the Chevrolet HHR Panel has additional standard features such as a driver seat with power for six seating adjustments including height and power adjustable lumbar support, running boards, sunroof, seats that are heated, shift knob and steering wheel with leather trim, a Pioneer audio system with seven speakers, AM/FM stereo, CD and MP3 player, adjustable speed sensitive volume control, OnStar telecommunications system, and electric speed-proportional power steering. A subscription is also available for voice directions.

Specs:

The engine in the Chevrolet HHR Panel depends on the trim level with the LS has 2.2 liter dual overhead cam 16-valve inline-four cylinder engine that can produce 155 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a five-speed manual transmission. The LT is available with an optional 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine that can produce 172 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque as well as a four-speed automatic transmission. Both models are front-wheel drive.

Fuel economy for the Chevrolet HHR Panel is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The combination of chassis and power train serve to provide a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds.

The interior of the Chevrolet HHR Panel is different from that of other vehicles with only two front seats and back section that is wide open, with the rear seats having been removed to provide a cargo capacity of 62.7 feet. A body-colored steel insert covers the rear side window to make the cargo area feel more secure.

Safety features on the Chevrolet HHR Panel start with a sturdy chassis and front and head airbags. The NHTSA has rated the vehicle five stars in front and side impact. Additional safety features include four-wheel antilock brakes and traction and stability control systems.

The Chevrolet HHR Panel is designed not so much as a passenger vehicle but for businesses that have a constant need for transporting materials and need the cargo space to handle it.