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:

• 

  Its the greatest! - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By robert boos - July 6 - 5:30 pm

  My first Chevy in 12 years and the moment I saw it on the road, I fell in love. Had 1994 Chevrolet SS and it beats that one. It is a head turner and I believe the PT Cruiser is a vehicle of the past, compared to the HHR. The ride, the look, the color (black) with the running boards, sunroof and soon to add fog lamps and roof rack will really set it off. Nice going to the people at GM.

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Mike T - July 2 - 6:06 pm

  Touch all the bases, Chevy hit a home run. A feature rich car, fun to drive, not a lot of money, great fuel mileage and you dont look like anything else going down the road. Any negatives, such as the window button location, are nit pickey. This is a first year model and there will be improvements. Hopefully Chevy will listen to the owners and make the necessary changes and improvements.

• 

  Happy HHR owner - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By doug byron - July 1 - 1:06 pm

  I have 4,000 miles on my HHR. It is a fun little vehicle to drive. A lot of people check the car out when I have it parked in the public. I guess the novelty hasnt wore off yet. I love the retro styling. I feel I got a lot of car for the buck.

• 

  Excellent job by GM - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By xray19050 - June 27 - 7:40 pm

  The best new car I ever purchased. GM has put their best effort into this Chevrolet and it shows! A 1000 mile trip to North Carolina was a pleasure. The XM Radio is a good travelling companion. Excellent mileage about 28.5 per gallon,and plenty of admiring looks from other people on the interstate!

• 

  I love my HHR - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Sarah - June 23 - 9:33 pm

  Such a comfortable drive, Ive only had it a few weeks and Ive got no real complaints. The seats are quite comfy, although the headrest adjuster button is difficult to easily get at. I wish the panel between the front seats was higher, it is low for reaching down. The gas guage dial - my other GM cars read from empty (left) to full (right), this car is the opposite, its not a big deal once you know it, it just surprised me a few km into picking it up from the dealer the gas warning light went on and I thought the tank was full, thank goodness I was in the city.

• 

  Great Car This HHR - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Mel - June 22 - 11:10 am

  We find this car to be great. Handles great, tight steering around curves, holds well around curves, little blind spot/s, leather interior, heated seats, great sound sysytem, plenty storage, luggage rack, 2 batteries, easy access to spare tire and just easy to drive. So far the gas mileage is good and so far fun to drive.

• 

  HHR? I want one of those! - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Pam Borden - June 5 - 7:13 pm

  This car really gets attention- mostly from men. Five times I have been approached and asked questions. People stare at it. It is a beautiful bright blue and looks like a small truck but it is really a very cool station wagon in disguise! Peppy 4 cyl engine gets decent mileage around 26 mpg. It is very comfortable. Roof racks have to be factory installed but running boards can be added by the dealer if desired. It has a neat glove box in the middle of the dashboard that the driver can easily reach. It is full of neat little surprises like maplights that dont shine in the drivers eyes. 5 adults can ride comfortably in the car.

• 

  Loads of fun to drive - 2008 Chevrolet HHR
  By aah - June 5 - 5:40 pm

  Ive had my HHR for about a month. I bought the 2LT model with the 2.4L engine. All I can say is the car is loads of fun to drive. I keep finding excuses to just get in the car and go somewhere. Performance-wise, the 2.4L engine is decent if a bit slow on initial acceleration. Handling is actually pretty good with the improved suspension that comes with the 2LT package. Brakes are a bit weak though. Interior room is great. I traded in an 03 Sonata and the HHR has a lot more room in the drivers seat and is much more comfortable to drive. Visibility can be a bit of an issue until you get used to its blind spots.

• 

  Beautiful Little Car - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Fred - May 28 - 1:56 pm

  This is the first new vehicle that I have bought since my 1987, which I still have. As far as I an concerend, its the best one I have ever bought. Nice firm ride and not to harsh,but feels very stable on the road. Have not had one problem with the vehicle at all. The wife just loves to car and she says its just the right size for her. All body fits are good and the paint finish is flawless. I get just about what the gas rating says. 23 city and 30 highway. It is really a fun car to drive with all the attention getting I expected. Questions from people at the grocery store, gas stations and malls. Would buy another one just for me it I had the money....

• 

  Great Car For All Ages - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
  By Keith - May 20 - 6:46 pm

  I cant believe how smooth a ride this vehicle has. With the folding seats and compartments, it is a very versatile car. Great value for the money, which isnt much. Im using this as a work truck. My whole family loves it, even the teenagers!