The bumper differs from the standard HHRAfAE’A,AC/AfAC/AC/a,!A!A,A!AfAC/AC/a,!A 3/4 A,AC/s design in that this one is shaped more like an air dam, decreasing the amount of turbulent air that gets pushed under the vehicle when driven at speed.
Recent photos taken in Death Valley show a prototype for the 2008 Chevy HHRSS. This prototype features a new front bumper with an under-bumper opening that allows air to flow to the turbo’s intercooler. This bumper is different from the standard HHR’s in that it is more like an air dam. This reduces the amount turbulent air that gets under the vehicle while driving at high speeds. The retro-styled bumperettes that were part of the standard model’s design are gone with the new design. The tires are low-profile Michelin’s mounted on alloy wheels and a firm-up sport suspension.
The engine is the 2.0 liter Ecotec Turbo direct-injected Ecotec Turbo, which was also used in the Pontiac Solstice GXP as well as the Saturn Sky Red Line. The turbocharged, intercooled engine produces a healthy 260 horsepower. Standard equipment includes four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. The transmission will be a 5-speed with a short throw shifter. Special seats featuring the SS logo and a turbo boost gage are some of the interior amenities.
The new SS will be included in the HHR lineup as a 2008 model.