2006 Chevrolet HHR Spring Edition - LT2 2.4 from North America

Summary:

Wife loves it, got it for her - Good stuff - A keeper

Faults:

Nothing broken so far.

Two tone (black/light gray) interior. Gray is a dirt magnet, especially the sun visors.

Sheet metal like paper. Dents incredibly easy - Not a good thing.

Needs a lower grille to protect the a/c cooler. Expensive if it finds a rock and the factory doesn't cover it.

General Comments:

Enjoyable & comfy for a long trip.

2.4 automatic gas mileage not so good around town at about 18 mpg. Seems to be not as buzzy as a PT Cruiser we borrowed, but we only used that for a day, could be my imagination. But I don't think so. Good mileage on the freeway thou. 30+ mpg on a trip of about 1,300 miles, many times running about 80 mph (up and down the 5 to Sacto) and had an average speed of 62. Wish it were that good around town.

Surprisingly good performance for a 4 cylinder. Handles decently if you get the Sport suspension. Get the XM radio, you won't regret it.

Fire Engine Red, can't miss it. Like the retro style a lot.

Looking forward to the HHR SS. They say late '08 early '09.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th August, 2007

2006 Chevrolet HHR LS 2.2 from North America

Summary:

A great buy at a great price

Faults:

When originally purchased the rear drivers wheel was loose causing air to leak from the tire. It was a demo so just assuming whoever drove it did that and the dealership was GREAT about getting it fixed asap!

General Comments:

Love the ride. I owned a 99 Wrangler prior to this and it has WAY more get up and go, of course that is to be expected. The vehicle has so much room in it, it's almost overwhelming. The ride is comfortable for long distances and even though the sticker states 30mpg I have been getting 36-38 while driving on the interstate. It has no problem keeping up in traffic or getting up to speed. Unless you're riding around in pot hole city this car is smooth and quiet. The sound system is awesome, mine has the upgraded stereo. The auto tranny is smooth and feels great. Overall this is a MAJOR improvement over any vehicle I've ever owned from Chevy *a cavalier and a trailblazer* and I just love it! If you're considering a van or SUV for the room, get this! you won't be upset!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th October, 2006

23rd Sep 2008, 08:24

I wanted to update my original post. I am now getting 28-32mpg in the vehicle as of September 2008. I began feeling major vibrating when accelerating or decelerating from to/from 65. After new brakes, new tires, and machining the rotors and all is well so I'm not too worried about that.

The paint is holding up great. Still shines and looks relatively new. I'd also like to add that after owning this for approximately 2 years, you start to notice the blind spots. There is a major blind spot between the windshield and drivers door so if you live in a windy city, be careful.

It also performs very well in the snow when you actually have tread on your tires! I was so impressed with it after putting on my tires that I may end up getting another one in a few years. Like before, if you need the room but want to save on gas this is definitely a great car. The small engine is still peppy and has plenty of power to keep up with all normal driving conditions.

2006 Chevrolet HHR LS 2.2L from North America

Summary:

Great retro styling in an economical vehicle

Faults:

It is new, so nothing yet.

General Comments:

This car gets better mileage than the EPA sticker says.

It has huge hauling capacity. Very spacious with all the seating being able to fold down. Far better than a PT Cruiser.

Plenty of go power for a 30 MPG car.

Comfortable seating.

High safety rating.

The retro styling is a refreshing change of pace from the standard wind tunnel designs we have been forced to endure for the past 20 years.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th September, 2006