Autoblog

Click image for updated gallery of live and media pics of this mini panel van

Chevy had shown the HHR SS at the Woodward Dream Cruise, making dreams come true for a select few who wanted this retro people mover to haul more than just people and stuff. Then we saw Chevy show off a panel van version of the HHR and thought it too could use some SS love. To that GM said, "Here you go." Tonight in Vegas we saw one of those '09 Chevy HHR Panel SSes in all its windowless wonder. Although the red leather accents were a bit over the top for our liking, the mean stance and mechanical upgrades made it much more palatable. This particular example is a SEMA special, but the limited edition production model shouldn't stray too far from the template. The bar-less grille, polished metal accents, custom "suede" paint scheme with a panel graphic, and 20" wheels look great in person. Underhood is the same 2.0L DI turbo found in the HHR SS, although paired to an automatic transmission in this case. No word yet on whether or not the production version will be available with the five-speed manual.

Follow the jump for GM's official press release, and check out galleries of the HHR Panel SS production and show cars below.

[Source: GM]

Add $200 to the price of a Chevy HHR and you can get yourself a modern-day two-seater panel wagon. Chevrolet says pricing for the Panel will begin at $16,750 "for a well-equipped LS model." The LS has the 2.2L 149hp engine. While the official press release claims the HHR Panel is rated at "30 mph in highway driving" we seriously hope they mean 30 mpg in highway driving. It'll also be available in an LT version which has the 2.4L 175hp engine, also rated at 30 mpg. No official word on LT pricing, though Velocity Journal says it will come in just over $17,500 with the no-option LS costing just $15,800.

With no rear seats to get in the way, the flat panel floor will accept more than 57 cubic feet of stuff, while an under-floor storage area takes five cubic feet more. Tie-downs are available, of course, to keep those cubic feet of cargo from sliding around.

At those prices, Chevy will definitely sell a few Panels, though the versatility of a two-seater wagon to most folks is questionable. We can, however, see this being the stylishly economic choice of large and small businesses alike. And we certainly can't wait to see what the customizers can do with it.

Read GM's full press release after the jump.

[Source: GM, Velocity Journal]

click image to enlarge

Who says slow news days don't yield surprises? Moments ago, we received the GM press materials announcing the all-new HHR Panel. At first, we assumed it was a SEMA thing, but lo and behold, this is an actual production car, and GM is to be commended. Unlike other panel concepts we've seen in the past, such as the Chrysler Panel Cruiser, the HHR Panel does not see the removal of its second set of doors.

Instead, the passenger doors are replaced by solid cargo doors that open via a dashboard release button. This provides easy access to the cargo area, which features a flat load floor and over 57 cubic feet of space. In addition to that, there's an additional 6 cubic feet of covered storage under the floor in the area where the rear seats would be on a regular HHR. Those compartments can be ordered with locks as an option.

As for the rest, there are two trim levels, LS and LT, and both come with the 2.2L Ecotec standard. The LT can be ordered with the 175-horsepower 2.4L Ecotec as well. Interior appointments mirror what you can have in the passenger HHR, so comfort items like power leather seats, MP3 compatibility and satellite radio are all available. You can even get it with a flashy set of 17" wheels -- a nod to the enthusiast/customizer niche Chevy's hoping to grab a piece of as well.

The HHR Panel should appeal to business owners as an economical, stylish delivery vehicle (both engines are good for 30 mpg on the highway).

This is a totally unexpected, completely pleasant surprise from the General. While DaimlerChrysler readies another panel concept for SEMA (this year, it's Nitro-based), Chevy will be taking orders as they prepare to go into production with theirs in Q1. This is a good move, and a great way to give the HHR some added juice.

(Photos, press release after the jump)

[Source: GM]