Overview & Reviews

An anomaly in the automotive world, the Chevrolet SSR (Super Sport Roadster) convertible combined the look of a customized 1950s pickup with the rear-wheel-drive powertrain of a sports car. Based on General Motors' midsize SUV platform, the SSR had a high seating position and a trucklike ride. Yet this muscular Chevy truck was no workhorse. It had just two seats, a narrow pickup bed with a tonneau cover and a meager towing capacity. Other packaging and ergonomic compromises made it less than ideal as primary transportation.

What the Chevrolet SSR did offer was a healthy dose of individuality. It looked like nothing else on the road and was a pure automotive style statement. Between the '40s-style fat fenders, the low hood and its dominant rear proportions (greatly enhanced by the hard bed cover), this Chevy looks as speed-crazed as any muscle car from the '60s or '70s. Its two-piece power-retractable hardtop stowed vertically between the seats and the rear storage bed, thus allowing open-air motoring. For a car enthusiast looking to fill some extra space in his garage with something that combines postwar cruiser image with modern-day hardware and reliability, the SSR could be a fun choice.

However, the SSR was plagued by issues throughout its four-year lifespan, including build quality problems, so-so performance of earlier models due to the smaller V8's struggle with the excessive curb weight, and a breathtaking sticker price. Subsequently, it was discontinued after 2006. Chevy sold only about 25,000 SSRs, which makes used examples a rare find.

Used Chevrolet SSR Models
The Chevrolet SSR is a two-passenger convertible truck that was produced in a single generation from late 2003 through 2006. Buyers interested in a used SSR should make note of a few changes that occurred during its production. For its first two years, the SSR came with a 5.3-liter, 300-horsepower V8 that struggled to get the 4,700-pound SSR moving with any authority. The 6.0-liter unit installed in 2005 made 390 hp and was a better match to move the heavy Chevy. Interior assembly quality improved somewhat during the 2005 model year, which also was the first year the six-speed manual transmission became available.

There was only one trim level. Standard features included a power-operated convertible hardtop, leather upholstery, power accessories, keyless entry and cruise control. An upgraded audio system, heated seats and auto-dimming mirrors were optional. Further customization could be had thanks to some strictly cosmetic options such as color-keyed bed strips, chrome interior and exterior trim, chrome wheels and two-tone paint.

In terms of safety, the Chevrolet SSR was modestly equipped. Front and side torso airbags were standard, but curtain airbags were not available due to the folding roof. Traction control and antilock brakes were standard, but stability control was unavailable. Every SSR came with 19-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels in back.

In reviews, our editors commented that the Chevy SSR possessed an agreeable combination of handling, ride and performance. The suspension was reasonably capable of keeping body roll under control and the exhaust note would do an old Chevelle SS proud. On the downside, the vehicle wasn't particularly useful for daily use, and some of the interior materials were a bit cheap-looking.

User Reviews:

• 

  Awsome, Awsome, Awsome - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By AZ Carol - February 22 - 2:00 am

  This truck is fun to drive, has great power, and turns heads as you go down the road. Its not practical as a truck, but I dont think anyone who buys one is going to use it for hauling equipment. Its fun just like the corvette. The back has plenty of room for golf clubs and groceries. Its worth every penny. Chevy has a winner in the SSR.

• 

  stupidest car i ever bought - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By spc - February 22 - 2:00 am

  I ourchased a red SSR about three weeks ago and it has tot be one of the most regrettable things I have ever done. NASCAR truck series styling has drawn many smirks on the road, with a few people (probably rightfully so) calling me "redneck" and "hoosier". I am actually emabarassed to drive the car and have it up for sale. Luggage room is marginal and the ride is purely marginal. the styling is fleeting, at best!. DONT BUY

• 

  Satisfied - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By Ron Myler - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive drove it over 5000 miles already & I really like it. Its comfortable & a lot of fun.

• 

  Best vehicle Ive ever owned. - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By ssrowner - February 22 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my T-Bird for the SSR. Not a truck, but more versatile than any other 2 seater. Great looks and performance. Its a blast! Take your time to shop around. Many dealers were asking 5K to 10K over MSRP. Just wait it out. Dont let try to sell you the "integrated side saddle storage". The top already locks.

• 

  One Word - WOW - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By fatrat - February 21 - 2:00 am

  There is Only one word to describe the SSR.... WOW. it is so fun to drive and forget about all the looks that you get while driving it. everyone looks and points. Once the dealer let me take it for a test ride i was hooked. i called and said i was coming and he had it outside with the top down and he threw the keys at me and said let go. that was all it took. i love it. its like driving a corvette pick up truck. i.ve never had so much fun driving a car in a long time. down here in florida im sure the top will always be down.

• 

  Awesome - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By pestamistic - February 19 - 2:00 am

  A fast sporty elegant piece of machinery that will amaze you every chance it can. Go ahead and push it it will let you know what you are in for.

• 

  Outstanding - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By deputydoug - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Its a great vehicle.. long overdue

• 

  Unbelievable - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By GentRancher - February 17 - 2:00 am

  This is the most fun vehicle I have ever owned. The attention it gets is awesome. It is a nice roadster that finally has some functional room for taking trips. It is a truck, and does have functional value as one. It wasnt meant to compete with crew cabs, it is a whole lot more fun.

• 

  FUNNNNnnnnn SSR !!!!! - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By XOXO Bill - February 14 - 2:00 am

  I am definately glad to have the honor to drive this new type of vehicle

• 

  SSR sweet. - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By jim owens - February 14 - 2:00 am

  if the looks knock you out wait till you get behind the pilot seat it makes you feel special its like no other the ride is very smooth if you want power no need to look any further it has a lot of charm i have never had a ride that makes me feel like this if you are having a bad day take one look at her and you will smile the rest of the day what a piece of cake rating ****