Chevy HHR and PT Cruiser: Separated At Birth?

Motor, Feb 2005 by Nash, Tom

If you need any evidence that Bryan Nesbitt, the young designer who penned the PT Cruiser for DaimlerChrysler is now with General Motors, then take a look at the 2006 Chevrolet HHR.

Meant to evoke memories of a 1949 Suburban, the HHR (Heritage High Roof) will be GM's entry for the "retro chic" market already populated by the VW New Beetle and the PT Cruiser.

Two HHR wagons will be arriving this spring for the 2006 model yearthe LS and LT. Both are powered by a 2.2L Ecotec that turns out 140 hp and 150 ft.-lbs. of torque. The LT is available in another package, as well-a 170-hp 2.4L Ecotec with matching torque. Both the LS and LT models are 4-cylinder DOHC. Transmissions include a standard five-speed Getrag manual or an optional four-speed Hydra-Matic.