hyperv6

Yes my 08 Malibu shows the Lutz influence he started. He has left people to continue these improvement with each and every model.

The Manual has a no lift shift. I have driven it and it works but you really feel like you are going to break something but the computer controls everything. I do fear missing a shift on the cable sifter. FWD shifters are always crap.

The Turbo upgrade is only two map sensors and a flash. It sets it to 290 HP and 315 FT LBS. The Solstice with the same kit can get up to 340 FT LBS with the stronger transmission. It really drives like a different car.

The auto was 235 in first and second gear with 250 in third and fourth. The upgrade makes it 290/315 in all gears.

MPG went up 1-2 MPG too.

I hope they offer a similar kit for the new Camaro as it can add some real HP and torque if you are ok with Premium Required ratings.

Yes the HHR was done under Lutz so it did see some improvement.

GM did get it about interiors but they lacked money to really finish a car. Scott Settlmire of the F body program said they always had just enough money to do the suspension and engine but always ran short with the interior. Today that is no longer a problem on each new model and the old ones are replaced.

GM back then could not even afford to market the HHR SS. That is why you never heard of them and they only has a little flyer insert at the dealer.
Things at GM were bad much longer than many realize. That is what is so exciting today as they for once in a long time are really finishing cars. The new Malibu will shock many how well it will be refined for the segment.

The Manual HHR SS had the LSD and Brembo package.

The Auto it was not offered as the diff is a little weaker. Though most times I get pull on both wheels and no real pull to the right. It is open but it is not a torque steer monster.

The Brembo brakes were only a front option and they really are not all that much better than the standards. I have heard complaints on the Brembos when they are cold.

My buddy has a manual and it is already getting funky on him. I know he likes it but he is not happy with the feel.
The manuals also with wheel hop can crack the cases on the tranny.

I am pretty easy on mine in first gear. I am not a burn out nut as tires cost too much and spinning them just slows you down. I have masters to launch in most conditions pretty well and once I hit second gear I put the boost to it. It makes a fast shift anyways.

Yes the panels were in the hundreds made and should be a popular collectable someday. The half panels are almost as rare. I have only seen a couple of each.

This and the Cobalt SS from the GM Performance Division really in my eyes were real SS models. You only have to drive one to find these were much more modified than people think. The engine has much more power but the suspension were so well sorted in these vehicles. It was a shame that the rest of the car like the interior quality was up to the level of the performance.

All I know is I can take off and keep with a Mustang GM and then they want to know how I did that.