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:

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  Squeaking Brakes - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By Donna Miller - January 7 - 6:10 pm

  Since weve bought our HHR, the brakes squeak when applied to slow down, very annoying, the car had 29000 miles on it when purchased. Ive read other complaints of the brake system and it needs to be dealt with. From bad rotors to brake pads, says GM uses less than adequate parts. What is the deal?

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  Smooth Going - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Frank - January 3 - 9:49 pm

  Ive run 70,000+ miles and finally needed my first repair - replacing the cheap front brakes. With rarely required routine maintenance (including oil changes every 10K or so with Mobil 1), and 27-30 MPG, you couldnt ask for a more reliable lower cost to maintain car. I got all the options except a sunroof (too tall) that makes it a pleasure to drive. Added antiroll bars that really tightened up highway handling.

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  I dearly love my HHR - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By LovemyHHR - January 3 - 5:41 pm

  My husband purchased an HHR last year and when it came time for me to get a new vehicle, he immediately recommended I get one as well. I was unsure, though, and didnt decide on an HHR until I saw my baby on the car lot. Leather in interior, sunroom, all of the options. I Love My HHR It drives like a dream and is great as a family car. Just enough room but with much more coolness factor than a mini van mom-mobile! Also, easy to park and maneuver - A big plus for me!

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By rileys34 - January 3 - 8:16 am

  The move to this vehicle from a mid- sized SUV has been a pleasant surprise. It drives better and costs less, except for the Caliber, than anything else we tested. It also does not look like every other crossovers.

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  Practical suburban vehicle - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By almontgp - January 2 - 5:18 pm

  This has been one of the best choices made for my transportation needs. Actually, I purchased this with my wifes impending need to upgrade her Prism (8 yrs old). We make daily trips of 40 miles, often hauling miscellaneous things such as feed bags, plantings and assorted small gardening equipment. The route is on both paved and unpaved roads. This car (?) is a perfect fit of utility and grace. The litmus test: my wife now drives this 100%! ) That outcome means we will purchase another - literally - because as expected, the Prism has seen the end of trails.

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  HHR - Great vehicle - Fun to Drive - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Charlie - December 28 - 7:06 am

  Very enjoyable to drive. Handles exceptionally well. Gets lots of looks and comments. People will pull up and talk with you and ask how you like the vehicle. Some have asked for a ride because they are unable to see the vehicle at the dealership due to availablity. Its just a lot of fun to drive.

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  White Baby Lex - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Stel - December 28 - 6:46 am

  I was hesitant to get the new HHR, after driving a Kia Sorento for 2 years while sitting higher with better view. The 4 cylinder did worry me a little. No worries anymore as the HHR has great pick up and is really peppy, very cool and fun to drive, the White 2 LT model has OnStar,XM radio, sunroof, cashmere leather, high polished wheels, heated seats,rear spoiler and great sounding pioneer system with 6 disc CD. I love this car after our first trip got 27 MPG while using AC and driving 75 MPH (still less than 500 miles so its not broken in yet). You cant go wrong with this car and the features you get. I highly recommend the Chevy HHR

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  The Last Car I Though I Would Ever Buy! - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By cyburbs - December 27 - 1:21 am

  The Chevy salesman shows me a low low mileage 2009 "program car" with a new car warranty, and the LT with many options. I reluctantly take it for a test spin. Its really not like an SUV, but its fun to drive like an old school VW camper van. Chrome wheels, 2.4L engine, sunroof, remote start, great XM radio, configurable seating, room for my dogs. Its really fun to drive. Bought it a week ago, and really love the ride.

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  Slides in the Snow - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
  By Susan - December 26 - 10:56 am

  This car is scary to drive in the snow. Theres a lot of sliding, even when driving at slow rates of speed. Ive had to put heavy items in the back, as if I were driving a pickup truck. The windows are difficult to see out of, because they are so small in order to see traffic signals and there are a lot of blind spots, because of the design of the front windows. I also had the rattling and shaking with the sway bar when I would brake. If I had to do it over again....Id look a little harder...

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  Had Reservations - 2009 Chevrolet HHR
  By MusicTeach - December 25 - 9:07 am

  My husband wanted to get an HHR for me because I need lots of trunk storage to haul musical instruments. I was concerned about the gas mileage, and the style of the car. Right now, in the cold, I am getting 25 mph around town, and I am pleased with that. It handles very well in the snow. I am still getting used to the style, but so far, I like it.