Beneath its retro appearance, the HHR is simply a nicely executed station wagon. Think of it as a Chevy Cobalt wagon in drag, since it's based on the same solid architecture. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the rear seat-backs fold fully flat, and the cargo deck is hard-surfaced. The front passenger seat-back can fold flat, too. The HHR is nice to drive, with a good balance between ride and handling. The base engine is a 149-hp, 2.2-litre "four"; the LT comes with a 175-hp 2.4-litre unit. Transmission choices are 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. For less than $20,000, even the base LS includes standard A/C, power windows, power mirrors, keyless entry, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD and cruise.

A nicely packaged wagon in retro clothing

Not everyone may "get" the retro-custom clothing