I know the numbers are similar between the HHR and the Mazda. But go and test drive one and you will feel the difference. Besides if we are comparing magazine times I have seen the speed 3 run mid 5 second sixties.

 

I checked out an Caliber SRT4 when I was shopping around. I felt like I was in a tight can of a car. Way to small for me and what I need, did have some cool features though.

One thing I really like about the Caliber is the chill zone up front. But it's still way to small.

 

Drove a Mazdaspeed 3. Too small. Nice little car, but overall the HHR can do a lot more, also better fuel mileage. Didn't even consider a Dodge product. Chrysler doesn't make anything I would consider buying.

 

One thought about transmissions, if you choose the stick, you can IF you choose to drive prudently, get 22-23 mpg in all city driving, as we have. I know the autos can't match that, plus you get the extra HP with the stick, a hard to beat combo in this day of $4.00 gas. My wide has commandeered my HHRSS and stuck me with her 13mpg TBSS. Oh well, guys gotta sacrifice sometimes.

 

I sure hope you leased the TBSS.

 

If your try harder, you can get 27 in the city or more. I do. I have a 5 speed btw.

 

 

I was all set to buy a Vibe ( ) but my wife didn't like the test drive too much. So... a little more research and an evil HHR add popping up on my Yahoo! page and now I drive an SS.

You won't be dissapointed.