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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  i love it - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By tony assante - October 27 - 5:40 am

  Plain and simple - I love this car. It is fun to drive and it looks good on the road. The base model comes standard with air, remote start and CD w/ ipod hook-up something the PT Cruiser I test drove did not. I only bring up the PT because that was the car I intended to buy. However, after test driving both cars, it was a simple choice – the HHR.

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  Forgot all about the Matrix - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Plasticman - October 11 - 10:10 am

  Its so quiet and smooth, I sometimes forget how fast Im going. After driving it and the 2005 Matrix, there was no comparing the ride. Its also much more comfortable and stylish. It has more room in the front, and a nicely flexible cargo space. I was afraid it would be a lot larger in length, but its only longer by 5 inches. The HHR is the car for me

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  Will buy another HHR - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By bobby boos - October 9 - 9:10 pm

  I have had my Chevrolet HHR for about 5 weeks and absolutely love it. People stop and ask me what kind of vehicle is that, and I say HHR and they say, boy I would love to have one. I will definitely buy another one in 2008 with even more whistles and bells on it. They should put a 6 cylinder in it and dual exhaust.

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  Really like our HHR - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By jandrwedd - September 23 - 9:20 am

  We were looking for an energy efficient car, but at 72 years old, wanted one with higher seats, auto, dark tinted windows, and something a little different than a small car. We are very satisfied with our HHR and the price we paid. The mileage is better than advertised. We get 34 on a trip.

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  HHR after 1 week of ownership - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Woody68RS - August 19 - 6:36 pm

  Our inital reaction is one of total satisfaction. Performance and economy are much better than even we expected. Avg after 2 tanks of fuel is 27mpg, and we have avgd 40mpg on the highway twice! The design while similar to the PT is different enough that it turns peoples heads. Ride quality is excellent, and exterior noise is virtually non existent inside. I recommend taking one home for a 24 hour test drive. If this is the size vehicle youre looking for, youll never want to take it back to the dealer.

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  Id love to buy another! - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By TOPSK9Trainer - August 15 - 1:06 pm

  I bought my HHR in 05 and have had no problems with it at all. Not one, and all I have to say is, Im hooked. This car is a keeper in my book. I hope it continues to satisfy and suprise for many years to come. I recommended this vehicle to many people I know, and so far, maybe 6 out of 10 have bought themselves their own HHRs and have a shared opinion. Thanks Chevrolet, you wont hear me say that twice, but I like this car and look forward to a turbo kit in the future!

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  Long haul - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By frank - August 11 - 7:50 pm

  I purchased the HHR in Florida and drove it back to New York. The wagon drove excellent. The seats were comfortable and gas mileage was excellent. Im very happy with the HHR

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  Lil but mighty Chevy - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By HHR Automatic - August 11 - 10:03 am

  Only had it 3 days when left on a trip to the California Mts. Had 3 adults and our gear for 12 days. Never missed a beat on the freeways or at high altitudes above 10000 feet. Very comfortable and fun to drive. Average mileage 27.8 mpg. Held speed with cruise on with no effort. XM radio a real treat. Runs stronger with additional miles on it.

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  New Vehicle - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By T Coats - August 7 - 2:30 am

  Just purchased 2 weeks ago and I love this car! The 1949 Retro look and the chopped roof set off this little beauty. Good pep for a 172 HP 4 Cylinder. Over all looks inside and out satified the want for a antique car. I have a 1962 Impala I am considering selling because I have my antique car in the HHR.

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  Whidbey Report - 2007 Chevrolet HHR
  By Sarge - July 30 - 3:50 pm

  As a Suburban owner, I was taken by the design of the HHR. Being an "Old Guy", I love the 49 Suburban take. Also, I like the fact that the seating position is high and entering and exiting this vehicle is easy. I dont feel like Im sitting on the floor boards. The build and quality of this vehicle is as good as Ive seen on any US vehicle. Maybe its because its assembled in Mexico. At any rate, theyre doing it right. I should say at this point, this report is on the 2LT with the 175 horsepower 2.4 liter engine. The 2LT isnt an option listed above for some reason. The 2LT has a larger sway bar and stiffer suspension. It handles way better, almost like a sports car.