Finding a comfortable seating position may require some effort, the problem seems to be with the contour of the seatback. Speaking of headroom, there isn't a lot of it, in spite of the high roof. Unless the seat was is in its lowest position, you mind find your head brushes the headliner and the windshield header is low for taller drivers. Also, the door lock button is positioned so that it interferes in driving and resting one's left arm on the window sill, a traditional and nostalgic pose.

Cubby storage is limited. There's a handy flip-up compartment on top of the dash and a small glovebox. The rear provides one cupholder and small door pockets. The front-passenger seatback offers a tight storage net.

Side windows are controlled on the console by buttons located just ahead of the gear shift lever, making them inconvenient to operate with ease; positioning them on the door would be much better.

Second-row passengers are afforded leg room, but not in large doses particularly behind taller drivers; kids will definitely be more comfortable.

The rear seat, split 60/40, folds flat very easily, as does the front passenger seat; and since the 60-percent side of the rear seat is on the left, a long item like a ladder can be slipped in diagonally, a nice feature. The rear cargo floor flips up to reveal a five-inch-deep tray useful for storage. The rear lift gate is one piece, and raises easily.

Solid rear quarter panels are available in place of the windows on all five-passenger models (via a window delete option).

The HHR Panel provides seating for two and a large, flat cargo floor, with tie-down points located strategically on the floor with available, floor mats that allow for easier movement of cargo. The HHR Panel features a flat load floor featuring a rubberized floor that provides utility and functionality for commercial or lifestyle activities.

The HHR Panel cargo area features a standard auxiliary power outlet, as well as a 40-amp auxiliary power connector to provide service for a variety of specialty equipment needs. Two large, storage compartments, with a lockable option, are located forward under the cargo floor (in place of the rear seats in the passenger models). The compartments offer security for things such as computer equipment, flashlights, service manuals and other valuables.

The HHR SS features a special interior with SS-embroidered sport seats with inserts, a specific gauge cluster, an A-pillar-mounted turbo boost gauge and a new shifter arrangement. Three interior color combinations are available: Ebony, Light Gray and Victory Red. A special GM Performance Driver’s seat, providing added lateral support and spirited driving comfort is optional and we think it's a must.