2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR: Full Review

In its initial form, V8 power was offset by hefty 4760-pound curb weight. That meant adequate "go," but the early SSR was no "muscle truck." Chevrolet claimed 7.5 seconds for 0-60 mph acceleration. Real muscle arrived with the 390-horsepower V8 in 2005, when Chevrolet claimed 0-60 times of 5.3 seconds with a manual gearbox and 5.5 with automatic. Automatic-transmission models are smooth from a stop, and upshifts occur sharply under aggressive throttle operation. The manual transmission has a hefty feel and provides quicker launches. Don't expect as much as 15 mpg overall fuel economy. Chevrolet permitted regular-grade fuel at first, but premium gasoline is required for later models. The SSR's suspension soaks up minor pavement flaws with little harshness. Larger bumps and ridges register abruptly for choppy going on all but smooth surfaces. The body quivers almost constantly over pavement imperfections, calming just slightly with the top up. Nicely weighted steering is a bonus. Wide tires provide good grip in turns, and body lean is well-checked. Unfortunately, structural rigidity is lacking, so bumpy corners--even bumpy straightaways--can upset stability. A prominent, throaty V8 exhaust note fills the cockpit, enhancing the SSR's street-cruiser image, and the engine drones loudly at certain speeds. Test vehicles have suffered squeaks and rattles, mostly from the raised top, when wind noise from the rear pillars is also noticed. Clear gauges occupy the retro-style dashboard, which keeps controls to a useful minimum. But the radio is a long reach away. Leather upholstery impresses, but the mix of faux metal plastic and quite a few unpadded surfaces imparts a low-budget feel. Movement of the automatic transmission's floor-mounted gearshift lever is particularly crude. Optional accessory gauges provide additional information, but are buried at the leading edge of the console, difficult to see from the driver's seat. Sporty seats in a narrow cabin makes the SSR short of hip and shoulder space. Short windows give a closed-in feeling with the top up. Tall drivers get adequate seat travel and good top-up head clearance. Seat controls on the outboard side of the cushion are nearly impossible to access with the doors closed, though the SSR includes memory-power settings. Visibility to front corners is hampered by thick roof pillars, and to the rear by combination of roof pillars, large headrests, roll bars, and a high tail. In-cabin storage is limited to a skimpy dashboard glovebox, small and difficult-to-open center-console bin, and clip-on cupholders. The cargo bed holds 23.7 cubic feet under the rigid tonneau that lifts from the rear. It can be removed, though the opening angle limits access and load-carrying ability.

Value for the Money
Chevrolet's retro cruiser is high on style but low on refinement, delivering indifferent handling. It isn't really a pickup truck, though the cargo bed adds a measure of practicality that many two-seat convertibles lack. Early models in particular had quality problems and aren't high-performance vehicles, despite the throaty V8. Image is the SSR's primary draw, but the brawny 2005-06 V8 gives it the power to match the street-rod personality.