SEMA is a place where car manufacturers can show off. Amid the hundreds of souped-up vehicles, there are a few production-portending cars, such as the Chevrolet HHR Panel SS, along with the Cobalt SS. Officially labeled a concept, this HHR gives a good view of an upcoming special-edition model.

Still sporting its throwback style, the HHR enhances that look with distinct front and rear fascias, rocker panels, front grille, and rear spoiler. Beneath the hood is a turbocharged, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 260-hp. It's matched to an automatic transmission. The FE5 Sport suspension includes specific stabilizer bars, spring rates, and damper tuning. In SEMA fashion, this concept version suspension has been modified to accommodate 20-inch wheels and tires. Stability control will be standard on the production model, as well as four-wheel disc brakes with ABS.

Although the HHR scored well enough in our tests to be recommended, it certainly had its faults, including limited outward visibility, controls that were confusing and hard to see, and a large turning circle.  Also, since the HHR we tested felt lethargic in everyday driving because of the tall gearing and the slow responding transmission, we look forward to checking out this high-performance version of the HHR scheduled for the 2009 model year.

--Liza Barth

Discuss SEMA and the HHR in our Auto Show and Chevrolet forums.