Regardless of whether or not the 2006 Chevrolet HHR mirrors the Chrysler PT Cruiser, it’s a new look for the bow tie brand. But inside, there’s an abundance of that familiar, dull Rental Gray.

As far as the eye can see there are plastics of various shades and grains, with expansive and overly flexible panels affixed to the doors. Likewise, hard, low-grade materials cap the dash, and it all features a pronounced and bumpy grain that resembles goose pimple flesh, providing not only an eyesore but also a rough surface to touch. Door inserts are slightly padded, though covered in what seems to be a step below cheap vinyl. On a more positive note, designers have used a nice charcoal plastic to dress up the instrument panel, and the radio and climate control buttons include textured rubber grips. Chrome trim on the door handles, shift surround, and vent and gauge rings adds a splash of sparkle to the otherwise depressing interior. A quality mesh material, looking quite out-of-place in the HHR, is stitched to the visors and headliner, though the pillar covers are a hard plastic designed to look like mesh.

Given that the 2006 HHR is an all-new car for Chevy, designers obviously spent some time working on this vehicle, but it looks like time was short when it came time to focus on the cockpit, and the result is a generic look and feel not deserving of buyers’ attention. And if you don’t buy that assertion, consider a comparison with the redesigned Honda Civic. Granted, the Civic lacks the HHR’s utility, but that point aside, the Civic comes fully loaded, including a navigation system, a plethora of airbags, and a power sunroof, for less than our Chevy’s as-tested price. Plus, it’s arguably more comfortable and built with superior materials. For a more apples-to-apples approach, the Chrysler PT Cruiser GT costs a bit more than our HHR tester, yet features a more upscale and inviting interior, not to mention 58 extra ponies under the hood.