Spy Shot
Exclusive Video and Spy Photos: 2008 Chevrolet HHR Super Sport
2008 Chevrolet HHR gets the SS treatment
Caught during some shake down laps at the Nürburgring test track, the 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS looks headed for showrooms soon. With more power from a turbocharged engine and various suspension tweaks, the HHR Super Sport should offer solid performance to go along with its retro looks.
Although Chevrolet has yet to confirm the existence of the HHR SS, a recent article in Automotive News quoted a Chevrolet spokesperson who said the company is looking to give HHR buyers more options. We suspect that option will come in the form of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with roughly 260 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Essentially the same motor used in the current Pontiac Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Red Line, the direct-injection 2.0-liter is stuffed full of advanced technology like dual-cam phasing and a twin-scroll turbocharger.
Judging by the way it was circling the Nürburgring test track, the HHR SS has also received substantial suspension tuning. Expect the usual upgrades like thicker sway bars, retuned struts and a revised version of the standard model's electric power steering system. Four-wheel disc brakes will be part of the package as well. Larger wheels and tires are a sure thing, too, but we doubt the five-spoke wheels shown in our spy photos are the final production pieces.
If there's one thing that won't change much it's the HHR's appearance. Already blessed with bulging fenders from the factory, the SS version looks as though it will maintain most of the standard version's sheet metal. The sole exception comes up front as this prototype was fitted with a deep front airdam and a mesh grille for improved air flow.
Look for the debut of the 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS early next year with sales beginning by the fall.
See new Chevrolet models
Although Chevrolet has yet to confirm the existence of the HHR SS, a recent article in Automotive News quoted a Chevrolet spokesperson who said the company is looking to give HHR buyers more options. We suspect that option will come in the form of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with roughly 260 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Essentially the same motor used in the current Pontiac Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Red Line, the direct-injection 2.0-liter is stuffed full of advanced technology like dual-cam phasing and a twin-scroll turbocharger.
Judging by the way it was circling the Nürburgring test track, the HHR SS has also received substantial suspension tuning. Expect the usual upgrades like thicker sway bars, retuned struts and a revised version of the standard model's electric power steering system. Four-wheel disc brakes will be part of the package as well. Larger wheels and tires are a sure thing, too, but we doubt the five-spoke wheels shown in our spy photos are the final production pieces.
If there's one thing that won't change much it's the HHR's appearance. Already blessed with bulging fenders from the factory, the SS version looks as though it will maintain most of the standard version's sheet metal. The sole exception comes up front as this prototype was fitted with a deep front airdam and a mesh grille for improved air flow.
Look for the debut of the 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS early next year with sales beginning by the fall.
See new Chevrolet models
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