A new high performance version of the Chevrolet HHR has been announced, the 'SS'. Like existing versions of this small five-door hatchback rival for the Chrysler PT Cruiser, the HHR is classified as a light truck in NAFTA markets.

The HHR SS is distinguished by new front and rear valances and spoilers, mesh for its upper and lower grilles and front foglamps. Chevrolet has also announced new colours for the car, which include Victory Red, Light Tarnished Silver Metallic, Mystique Blue Flash Metallic and Sunburst Orange II Metallic.

Mechanically, the main change is a 260hp (194kW) tubocharged 2.0-litre engine which, like other HHRs, drives the front wheels only through five-speed manual or four-speed automatics transmissions. This four-cylinder engine is identical to that used in the (rear-wheel drive) Saturn Sky Redline and Pontiac Solstice GXP roadsters.

The suspension has been upgraded to what Chevrolet calls "FE5" specification, complete with specific stabiliser bars, spring rates and damper tuning. ABS and stability control are also standard, as are 18-inch polished forged-aluminium wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport MXM4 tyres.

Inside, there are sports seats with inset 'SS' logos and suede inserts, a new gauge cluster, a revised gearshift lever and a turbocharger boost indicator on the A-pillar.

The 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS is due to reach Chevrolet dealers in the US, Canada and Mexico in December. Like other HHRs, it will be built at GM's Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico.

Source: [url=http://blogs.trucktrend.com/6214493/vehicle-reviews/chevrolet-introduces-turbocharged-2008-hhr-ss/]TruckTrend Magazine[/url]