Hi everyone,

I'm one of those people who actually like the way the HHR looks and waited for the SS before buying. With funds in hand I'm on the brink of pulling the trigger, but I have one concern... visibility which has me waffling between a Panel and "Half Panel". Hands down the Panel appeals to me, but I'm concerned about safety.

Lately when I'm driving my Cherokee I imagine not being able to see out the rear windows and there are situations where I simply could not see traffic and wondering just how safe/practical driving the Panel would be.

Anyone here want to chime in on the visibility issues with the Panel?

Woody

 

Driving isn't that bad. You just have to rely on your mirrors more. You'll also find yourself backing into most parking spots as well.

 

I don't miss the back side windows at all. Every time I turn to look back to the sides all I see are the rear seat head-rests any way. But I do have the spotter mirrors on both outside mirrors. Of course the full-panel has no rear seats. It's just a personal preference when you make up your mind. Besides it is a unique look. Go for whatever you like best.

 

Like he said on the Panels as long as your in tune with your mirrors you should have no issue.

Driving a panel is not harder if not easier than a full size panel van or a Pick up with a cap.

the biggest problem anymore is that many people do not master the use of mirrors anymore. This may be due to the fact most cars do not have blind spots like they used to have. Though I did get in a new Challanger and the blind spot in the rear is horrrible.

Also the HHR is small enough that it is still realy easy to drive even with the blind spot. Things like the rear veiw camera option if it is ever made is not a required need item and more of a toy than it is on a Camper or large bus.

 

IMO, the Half panel would be the one to get if you can. I see far fewer of them on the road than the Full panel. Also, the AA5s have fewer blind spots if you are concerned about such things.

 

Here's our 2 cents for what it's worth! For looks the Full Panel is the ticket! We would not have purchased our HHR in any other style! Now for visibility issues or blind spots, they are there aplinty! You will as 1Panel2NV says learn quickly that backing into parking spots will help alot when leaving the parking lot! We do not have our spotters as of yet but find that the Turn Signal should be applied sooner and lane changes our made with more caution! "So in closing, you know you really want the Full Panel, go for it" !

 

Thanks guys, good points. Over the years I've developed this habit of looking in the mirror and then turning my head "just to make sure". Guess I'll just have to learn how to rely on the mirrors.

Every time I think of the half-panel I think of two extra door handles and change my mind.

 

Now on that subject let me recommend that you and only you close the rear doors and hatch! The rear side doors without handles I have found need to be closed by using your palm on the edge of the door! Our detailers helper got the door halfway closed and then completed it by pushing on the panel where the handle would have been ! Time for the Paintless Dent Removal Guy !

 

Get the full panel, you will get used to using the mirrors real quick, The only issue I have is hitting the darn back door button when I am trying to hit the lock or unlock on my FOB!!