Used 2006 Chevrolet HHR Consumer Reviews
It is what it is.
The retro design is appealing to this old man with desires formed in the 1960's. The 2400 engine is amazingly responsive. The transmission has a lot to do with the responsiveness. Both are smooth without the power mower sound. The entry and seating are suitable for this arthritic. We use it for short runs and errands. For journies longer than a few hundred miles, the crampedness and the small driver's legroom would become cumbersome. With 20,000 miles we had to have the rotors turned as it shimmied violently at high speed braking. I understand this has been a problem with other owners. We will see how this plays out. Being rural it is nice to have nearby GM service.
We were one of the first.
When I saw my first HHR I thought it was some sort of prototype. Chevrolet certainly was not advertising them or I would have seen it sooner! Love the authentic retro look and with the 2.2 H.O. It scoots just fine. I can hardly wait till GM has a few years to get the engine upgrades right. I will take mine in white with a Turbo!
Pleased I Bought It
I haven't had this car long but from the time that I have had it I believe it will give me years of fun driving. The styling is masterful but the engine could use more umph. The vehicle is well built. Actually put together like a Swiss watch, and it runs like a Timex! I have the 5 speed Getrag manual and I wished that I had the automatic. However this transmission is very good. I would like to add an STS Turbo if I could find one. I would recommend this vehicle to any and everyone.
Room, Comfort, and Economy
Before buying, I drove a Nissian Versa and a KIA Rondo. I found the HHR to be more comfortable, handle and ride better, be more responsive, and very close on fuel economy. I am very satisfied with my purchase and have gotten 34+ mpg on the highway with A/C operating. I also feel the little wagon handles like a big car.
Chevy HHR, all looks,
We were at first very excited to purchase this attractive and different vehicle. It was fun to drive and my first Chevy purchase. Shortly after, began multiple warranty problems. We have had an ac compressor go out; a hub bearing replaced; a shifter replaced; and a huge water leak through the cowl seal. Cosmetically, the interior can't withstand even minor use without dirt showing; cheap carpeting and fabrics. The railboard rubber came unglued and buckled. The paint chips easily. The radio pops, even with the upgraded Pioneer model.The third break light fried. I really like to drive the car for the exterior looks, but it isn't a reliable vehicle for a commuter who needs to use it everyday.