Concept cars

2005 Chevy HHR WCC Custom Concept

March 09, 2005

Oddly, WCC removed the shifter from the center console in order to make room for its multiple plasma screens, but has made no

While WCC hasn't said what's under the hood of its custom truck, the base HHR features a 2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder, putting out 140-horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

mention as to how gears are to be selected. The HHR comes stock with a 5-speed manual transmission, featuring synchros on all five forward gears as well as reverse, with a Hydra-Matic 4T45-E electronically controlled 4-speed automatic optional. Most likely the latter has been chosen for the WCC car.

The custom tuner also doesn't offer any hints to what's under the hood. The base HHR features a 2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder, putting out 140-horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, while those wanting a little more grunt under the right foot will need to opt for a 2.4L 4-cylinder upgrade producing 170-horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.

Still, this custom HHR would do best with GM's 205-horsepower turbocharged 2.2L four, as currently offered in the Saturn ION Red

West Coast Customs may have built the first custom HHR, but it will not be the last. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

Line and soon to arrive in the upcoming Cobalt SS coupe. When this engine becomes available, it will be ideal for tuning.

While the new West Coast Customs HHR shows off the talents of the celebrated customizing shop, it's also an example of the personalization potential of Chevy's newest model.

No doubt, this is just the first customized example of the HHR, with many more to come at various auto shows, highlighted by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show later in the year.

The HHR's main rival, Chrysler's long-running PT Cruiser, has been the basis of many modified one-offs, some of which were developed by Chrysler itself. Look for future HHR customs, some from the aftermarket and others by GM.

Specifications: