First Impressions of the Chevrolet SSR for 2004

A high point in the convertible market is the Chevrolet SSR. In 2004 Chevrolet rolled out an upgraded version of the SSR with one versions: Base. Sales for the SSR, especially the SSR Base, were brisk during 2004 and 2005. The improved reliability and the updated styling were responsible for the increased interest.

Stop and Go

The restyled SSR Base is equipped with a 5.3-liter eight-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Vortec engine is mated to a General Motors four-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2003 version.

The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The SSR uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. Load balancing is provided by coil front springs and coil in the rear.

Statistics

The SSR is 191.40 inches long, 78.60 inches wide, and 64.20 inches high. It has a wheelbase of 116.00 inches. It is able to seat 2 comfortably.

The Chevrolet SSR lists at $41,620 when new. The dealer cost on the truck was $38,915.

Fuel Efficiency

The fuel system for the 2004 SSR is a SFI system, running on gasoline . The fuel is regulated by an electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design.

The SSR Base received an fuel efficiency rating of 16 MPG driving in the city and 19 when it came to highway driving. The gas-powered SSR is a non-hybrid truck.

Parting Shots

The 2004 model year was very successful for the Chevrolet SSR. The introduction of several trim levels (along with the Base version) meant that buyers could find the version that best suited their needs.