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 my HHR! - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Charity - April 23 - 5:23 pmWe owned an SUV, and with the higher prices of gas we wanted a more economical vehicle. I spotted an HHR and fell in love with its quirky look. We started researching this vehicle and knew it would suit the needs of our family. Our insurance premiums, car payment and gas consumption dropped. What could be better? Ive always owned more normal and boring vehicles so I wanted something spunky. I ordered the blue HHR and customized it with the leather interior, 6 CD changer, and order a 5-speed. It handles beautifully in all types of weather. We have seat warmers (very nice in winter.) The air bag automatically disengages when a smaller person is sitting in the front seat.
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So far so good - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
By bernie - April 20 - 11:33 pmAfter reading all the brake problems, i hope this will not happen to the ss. I just bought a red ss and cannot tell you how pleased I am with it. With the 260 hp eco tech turbo engine, it is a little rocket. The ss specific interior is comfortable and well designed. The 5-speed shifts firm and quick. The exterior ss specific ground effects, 18 inch wheels with speed rated tires filled with nitrogen, paint finish and door gap fit is the best Ive seen in a long time. Oh yes, the smaller steering wheel and quicker steering make this thing loads of fun to drive. It is quick. It also has larger 4-wheel disc brakes that stop great. so far happy as a clam with it.
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Style to Spare! - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Deborah - April 19 - 3:26 pmIve only had this car for a month - but everyday Im so impressed with it. I went from an SUV to the HHR - and it only took a few days to become used to the front wheel drive and lower profile. Its fun to drive - lots of pickup despite the 4 cyl motor. Lots of room on the inside - only complaint is the placement of the armrest - a little out of place. Nice in dash storage, and plenty of room for supplies under the back cover above the spare tire. Stereo booms - and has easy to use controls. I was surprised with all the extras on the LS - power everything - its a lot of car for the money - so very happy - and it just looks hot to drive! Lots of looks and questions!
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Close to perfect HHR - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Heart Lady - April 5 - 8:30 amUpgraded 2.4L has plenty of power. The 17" wheels give excellent cornering ability. Plenty of cargo space for its size. Slightly disappointed that I only average 28 mpg compared to 33 mpg with my other full size car with a V-6.
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Great Vehicle - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Rick Hale - February 17 - 6:26 pmFun to drive, lots of room, have 6 dogs 5 little and one 117 lb all fit with seats down along with cargo, Great gas mileage. Sharp looks inside and out..Very retro, Love this vehicle. Very impressed with power. Set cruise and go, even long hills dont slow it down..
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Wow, Neat Car - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Brian - February 13 - 8:56 amBought this car July 4th 2006. Bought the LT Summit White(wow it really is BRIGHT)pretty much loaded out. The OnStar is a big deal for the wife and kids and the XM is awesome. The steering is unbelievable, you can almost turn circle in a normal 2 lane road with no problem. Only bad thing is I dont get to drive it, the wife has taken over.
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No other car for me - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By Lonnie - February 8 - 11:36 pmI was able to drive this vehicle last summer when they had just come on the market in California, Since then I hav studied these cars and compared them, I have found that there is not another vehicle out there that compares in price, comfort and ability to facitlitate all the needs I really needed in a car, I have short and very tall family members who range from five foot two to six foot three and everyone fits comfortably. The gas mileage and power are perfect too. I received weekly updates from Chevy on this car and I must say saftey and comfort for my family is number one and I definitely have found it here in this vehicle. Drive one one and you will see exactly what I mean.
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Ignore the "Experts"...... - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
By ron forneris - January 29 - 9:26 pmPurchased my HHR last month in spite of the "expert" reviews. One consumer review I read said to ignore the reviews and buy the car.......I agree. No "vague steering", weak braking or any of the other complaints voiced by the pros. Great fuel economy and acceptable power......Im sure a turbo will be forthcoming. Ive owned a PT Cruiser and this is far superior.......the stereo is amazing for any price vehicle. Didnt expect that/pleasant surprise. Im a retired cop.......Ive taken and taught pursuit driving courses and defensive driving classes......this car is a winner and is well worth a look if youre shopping in this price range.
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Chevy HHR Review - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
By Awesome Car - January 26 - 7:53 pmPurchased my Chevy HHR in October 07 and Im totally pleased with this car. Went from a Subaru with a very choppy uncomfortable ride to my 08 Chevy HHR which rides smooth has great storage excellent control panel giving all the stats you would want/need. Example tire pressure, oil life, temp etc. Overall I feel this small SUV gives far more space then PT Cruiser with better styling and ride.
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Itll grow on you! - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
By ted Sheldon - January 18 - 8:10 pmHave owned all sorts of cars and trucks, very easy to get comfortable. I drive a lot and I hate a vehicle that you constantly have to adjust the seat. With Gas over priced, I dont try to race light to light, I cruise a little slower than most and am got 31.5 mpg last tank (split city/hwy).
