Yesterday’s grim news that General Motors had decided to pull the plug on its High Performance Vehicle Operations (HPVO) caused shockwaves around performance circles... February 19, 2009 by Ralph Hanson 3
In what may come as a surprise to many, General Motors has decided to disband its High Performance Vehicle Operations (HPVO) as it seeks to reduce costs and focus on... February 18, 2009 by Viknesh Vijayenthiran 7
We've all heard the argument for why someone drives that big SUV instead of a fuel-sipping mini-car on their epic two-hour commute: crash safety. And while there's a good bit... December 17, 2008 by Ralph Hanson 1
Because of its very affordable price, the HHR competes with a wide range of vehicles—including some small cars.
But its most direct competitors are tall-roofed utility cars, such as the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Scion xB.
The PT Cruiser is also a versatile people/cargo hauler and has more useful passenger space than the HHR, but the Cruiser in any trim can’t match the HHR’s performance with the SS edition.
The Jeep Compass, which is heavily based on the Dodge Caliber, is a tall-roof hatchback car—though a little rounder than the HHR.
The Compass isn’t nearly as cargo-friendly as the HHR; however, the Compass offers all-wheel drive and the HHR does not.
The Scion xB is also a direct rival to the HHR; like the rest of the Scion line, it targets a more youthful, urban buyer.
Like the HHR, the XB isn’t as roomy inside for passengers as one might expect.
Later this model year, the 2010 Kia Soul will go on sale; with more of an emphasis on fuel economy and maneuverability, the Soul looks poised to compete for city dwellers.