One of the local (Shreveport) Chevrolet dealers shows a used, manual SS in stock on autotrader.com. I have been lusting to test drive one since I learned that GMPP had created it. The local one is priced above retail, and don't think I am willing to PURCHASE, but I want to TRY one to compare with my manual 2LT. I've read in these forums about otherwise unsuspecting individuals taking one test drive and being smitten. People can get addicted on first use of cigarettes or crack cocaine due to the inhaled drug delivery system. It appears that the SS can have similar effects in a drug-free environment.

 

dont drive it cus you will buy it

 

Thought I was going to buy a 2lt till I drove a SS then I drove one with the stage1 and the rest is history shouldn't take too long to switch over the nice mods you have made to the current HHR If you haven't entertained the thought of buying one my suggestion would be.......... don't drive it .

 

I had a short test drive. I didn't try no-lift shift, and didn't even floor it. However, I did enjoy and learn from the experience. This was a 2008 SS, so it had the 2009+ non-SS relocation of the window controls to the doors while having the 2006-2008 headliner and "light wash" to illuminate the controls in the center stack which aren't there any more!

The biggest, and unexpected, thing I noticed was the transmission! I put a TWM short shifter and weighted shift knob on the 5-speed Getrag in my 2LT due to its disastrously long throw and too-large spherical knob. The Saab 5-speed feels much better! The subtle relocation and slightly higher knob position is noticeable, but particularly wonderful is the shifter feel. I also had to get used to the switch that had to be moved to get into reverse. The shifts were shorter than the stock 2LT and more precise than either shifter with the Getrag. It's not as good as my S2000, but about 2/3 of the way there. A weighted shift knob would probably help the feel going into gear, but a short-shifter doesn't feel like it would be needed.

I didn't evaluate the power of the engine, though it was willing, didn't hesitate, and I got a feeling that I would spin the wheels (on a misty day) if I pushed down too hard. The all-disk brakes (no Brembos in 2008) had a better feel to them, though I really am not sure why. The suspension felt a bit tighter, and did not feel bumpy to me. I liked the feel of the 6-way power seats' satin-like material. It wasn't leather, wasn't heated, and didn't have arm rests, all of which are present in my 2LT, but it still felt pretty good. I didn't do anything where I would notice the LSD, or even the absence of a rear sway bar.

In summary, I liked the SS a lot. It accelerates, rides, and seems to brake better. The transmission made the biggest difference for me. Were it not for the additional cost, the risk of turbocharger problems, and the fact that I already own a loaded 2LT, I would be seriously interested.

 

Docuth: Do not try and kid us. You were more than a little impressed, and if you can find one and the price is right, you will step up to the plate. One good test ride in a SS, is a real eye opener, to even the most jaded car guy.
It's almost like good drugs, or good sex.
Go ahead and take the plunge. The more you drive it, the better you'll like it.
"Moon"

 

Moon Speaks the truth .

 

We were gonna buy a 2LT('08), but we didn't even have to test drive the SS, we saw a poster on the wall, and waited and waited and waited. Bought it the day it came in. Jan '08 and am still in love at 45K. I am comfortable enough now to add all the performance mods, and have no major fears of destroying this car. I just upgrade as stuff wears out. January purchases will include some sway bar bushings, tie rod bushings&ends, Pedders, and TTR Motor Mount.

Listen to Moon... me or him and buy it! The Mustang I played with today on the Interstate was surely impressed.

Oh and if you haven't figured it out yet, this is a toy that begs to be played with and customized... oh and don't forget low build numbers. In about 2 or 3 years your gonna see these cars disappear, as people trash 'em, hide 'em, wreck... you get the idea. A few of us will still have them 20 years from now too. I remember this guy everybody called him "the mustang man", as he had 100 or so mustangs on his property and would piece them back together a few at a time.... That might very well be one of us in the future

 

In 2 years and 7 months i'll hit 60,000 miles next week. in 2 more years it will be used up, Then i'll look for a SS panel with low miles . That's the plan anyway . (5-speed of course)

 

Long as it's a Panel !!!

 

One test drive is all it took for me! I really love the car, but I am not going to mess with the Stage I kit (too many problems with stage kits reported on forum) because its good enough right out of the box! As far as price, my 2009 HHR SS with sunroof and brembo brake package sold for 16.5 k with about 8k miles on it. I haven't had any issues so far after just passing the 12k mark.
Currently, I am pondering getting and extended warranty from GM because I plan to keep the car a good long while.

Good luck with your search!