Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet HHR was something of a late arrival to the compact wagon scene. Its name stood for "Heritage High Roof," referring to its tall retro-wagon styling, which Chevrolet claims was inspired by the '49 Suburban. Everything else about the vehicle, however, was decidedly modern.

Though compact in size, the Chevy HHR featured clever interior packaging solutions, including a split-folding rear seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat and a cargo area floor (with built-in grocery bag hooks) that allowed it to accommodate bulky and/or long cargo items. For shoppers searching for a used versatile compact wagon that's also stylish, the HHR certainly merits consideration.

Most Recent Chevrolet HHR
The Chevrolet HHR was a compact four-door wagon produced from 2006-'11. It shared its front-wheel-drive architecture -- and thus many of its driving characteristics -- with Chevrolet's Cobalt compact sedan.

In testing, our editors commented favorably about the HHR's smooth and quiet ride, ample cargo space, attractive interior, excellent visibility and versatile sound system. The cabin boasted nicely detailed gauges, tight construction and substantial-feeling controls. There was, however, no shortage of hard plastics on hand that sullied the overall ambience. The HHR's tall ceiling provided headroom aplenty, but the narrow body limited comfort for adults riding in the backseat. Other downsides included weak brakes, underwhelming handling dynamics and a lack of refinement from the 2.4-liter engine.

Four trim levels were offered: LS, 1LT, 2LT and a high-performance SS version produced from 2008-'10. A two-seat panel van version that came in LS, LT and SS trims was available every year but 2006.

The base engine was a 2.2-liter four-cylinder that initially produced 143 horsepower, but was bumped to 149 for 2007 and to 155 for 2010. Available on the LT was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced either 172 hp or 175 depending on the year (it actually went back and forth). The SS featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 260 hp, along with stronger brakes and an enhanced suspension that together made it quite fun to drive. Front-wheel drive and a five-speed manual were standard with all, but a four-speed automatic was optional.

Besides the minor horsepower bumps, changes to the HHR were limited to standard features. Most notably, this included stability control for 2008 as well as antilock brakes and side curtain airbags the following year.

User Reviews:

• 

  07 HHR LT - 2007 Chevrolet HHR
  By RSS - April 27 - 3:05 pm

  Were very excited when we purchased this vehicle. It looks good, fun to drive and gets good gas mileage. The fun ends after about 60,000 miles. Would suggest you trade it in at the 36,000 mile mark. The cost for repairs after that will make you wish you never bought the car.

• 

  One of the Best Vehicles Ive Ever Owned - 2010 Chevrolet HHR
  By VictorySpeedway - April 18 - 7:17 am

  I ordered a 2010 HHR SS with the AA5 (no rear quarter windows), sound system, performance package. I am blown away by the performance. Itll do 150 mph. Ive had it up to 118, and it wasnt even breathing hard. It handles "as if on rails." Seats are very comfortable, even on long trips, and I make many of those. It has enough space for all my equipment. Sound system is good, not great. I would install a custom stereo system on my next vehicle. The factory tires are wearing like iron. But the best feature of all is the mileage - Im averaging 28.5 mpg. All in all, it is almost the perfect vehicle.

• 

  handy liitle thing - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
  By Dom - April 5 - 6:37 pm

  Just a handy cute little car. its comfort seating sit high like a truck good visibility. rides good very fuel economical have done 6.9l/100km in ideal conditions. winter driving affects it i do closer to 8.9/100km. over all very satisfied. except a few front end noises, has to do with suspension, but i had no problem getting them replaced (stabalizer bars)and they could be removed for someone that does not want to be bothered with replacing them.

• 

  HHR good but needs improvements - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
  By star5838 - March 6 - 5:33 pm

  I bought my HHR in 2008. It really does get 30-32 MPG highway. It is very versatile and easy to drive. You get a lot of nice features for your money. I drive 400-500 miles per week so I spend a lot of time in mine.

• 

  Quality & Moon Roof Problems - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Mark DeBaker - February 27 - 3:11 pm

  The moon roof made noise from the start. The dealer put foam in it twice. Turns out after the warranty was up that the actuator is failing. It cannot be tightened & is a $1,000.00 repair that GM will not back up. The glass can be seen bouncing. The car hydroplanes in light rain, slush and snow because of the wide low profile tires. Expect to pay a fortune to replace the low profile tires. Window controls are poorly located. Rear passenger seating is small. Wipers stop working sometimes. Takes a technician to replace the air cleaner. Gas mileage is very good. Disappointed that GM will not back up Mfg defects. Do not leave the dealership without documented repair paperwork.

• 

  Super Ride - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By gozmore - February 25 - 10:16 am

  This vehicle is such a blast to own and drive, I am the second owner, 39,000 miles, 33 miles to gallon on highway, great sound system, great visibility,I get peoples attention where-ever I go, 24 miles per gallon city, hauling capacity is unbelievable, I had a custom trailer hitch added to pull a small trailer.I added the "Chevrolet" word on the front nose and on each side of the hood, the color is light gold with saddle trim, I also added power air filter system

• 

  Herbys Hot Rod - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Harmonica Herb - February 23 - 10:53 am

  I dont know another car that could have reacted as quick as my HHR did when another car slammed on brakes in front of me. Another driver said," I dont know how you missed that guy."

• 

  2008 HHR - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
  By Mike - February 18 - 11:19 pm

  Purchased at the height of the Gas problem in 08-It is a spunky little car and fun to drive but mileage is average 26 or so. So far have had front brakes, steering motor and column replaced. Now having issue with front suspension noise. Have the 17 inch Alloy wheels look good but ride rough on this little car. Too many mechanical issues for me am concerned about reliability longer term.

• 

  Chevys Best Kept Secret - 2010 Chevrolet HHR
  By hot sauce bill - February 18 - 10:30 pm

  Never dreamed I would fall in love with such a car, wagon or SUV? Not really sure what it is. But, it sure is fun to drive, rides great, and the mpg is nothing to scoff at. I got the fully loaded version, and for under $24,000 its hard to beat. Again, I never dreamed I could love such a little vehicle, and Im six feet tall and ride high and comfortable. Ive only owned Silverados up to this point, finally came to the realization mpg and the fact I didnt need to haul anything more than me was most important. I love my HHR! Dont knock it till you drived it!

• 

  HHR Review - 2007 Chevrolet HHR
  By HM52425 - February 13 - 9:01 pm

  Even though I have only had the vehicle for a short time, I am very satisfied with the vehicle. I had researched the vehicle for several months, and this proved to be the best vehicle for my needs. I drive 72 miles , one-way to work, on a daily basis. The gas mileage is good (30+ MPG) and comfort is excellent.