2008 Chevy HHR SS

• Competes with: Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo, Scion xB with optional supercharger, Dodge Caliber SRT4
• Looks like: A squished 1950s panel van on steroids
• Drivetrain: 260-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; front-wheel drive
• Hits dealerships: Late 2007

One complaint about the Chevy HHR — and I have more than one — is its puny power plant. It might be adequate for point-to-point errand running, but it leaves a lot to be desired for those who admire the hot-rod looks of the retro van. Chevrolet is fixing that problem with the 2008 Chevy HHR SS, a new, high-powered trim level.

Besides the 260-hp turbo engine, the HHR SS gets a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, electronic stability control and antilock brakes standard. There are also some revisions to the styling, with a new mesh grille up front and a spoiler around back. The inside sees a number of new details, like a smaller steering wheel and race-inspired leather seats, while the manual-transmission HHR SS sees the shifter placed higher off the ground for easier shifting. And there’s a turbo gauge, of course.

The HHR SS goes on sale later this year. Prices have not been announced, but we expect a $4,000 bump similar to the one the Cobalt SS took over the LT trim. The HHR LT starts at $17,005. Check out the photo gallery below.

Comments

Wow that is a nice performance upgrade over the other models. We have an LT we love but if I knew this was coming I would have waited. I am curious to see the fuel economy numbers, our current model is getting 27mpg in mixed drive and over 30 on long trips with the 2.4L. I like the seat upgrade too. Looks like the battery found its way back in the engine bay on this one.

Thanks for the info on this Dave.

It looks like it would compete with the Dodge Caliber SRT4 too.

You're right Matt. i added that above. Thanks!

Did you guys forgot to mention the Mazdaspeed3?
The WRX might be a good competitor too.

When I first opened this I thought, "Oh no! Another SS!!" As I read though I got more interested. A 260 HP engine? Sounds like good fun, and the SS looks look good, not silly (like on the Malibu & Malibu Maxx.)

I'm sorry, but I just can't see this car competing with others like the Mazdaspeed3, WRX, or VW GTi. I have a feeling that it's basically the bland handling base car with a bigger engine, a body kit, and stiffened suspension. Cars like the MS3, WRX, and GTi, on the other hand, are heavily re-engineered to be performance-centered cars and therefore would be in a different class in terms of handling and chassis dynamics. I liken it to the PT Cruiser Turbo, which is a relatively sporty car but simply not on the same level as others.

Who really cares?

i do

Heh, glad somebody agrees with me.

Where is the 6 speed automatic? (6T45E)

I like it. This is the kind of styling, performance and numbers that would drive me away from my import. GM, please allow more SS to trickle into your other models.

Is the HHR really selling and worth making an SS version? Most HHRs that I've seen have been used car lots.

LOL is all i have to say to this. The hhr is a ridiculous soccer mom auto as is (that commercial they ran with all the guys getting naked at the stop light made sure men around the world crossed this car off thier shopping list). No reason for a car aimed at the 35+ soccer mom demographic to have a turbocharged engine. The only people I can see buying this car are husbands of the soccer moms who may have to use the car occasionally.

Ziggy,
it does sell moderately well yes and folks have actually been asking for an SS version.

npoll: i think it mostly sells to baby boomers and empty nesters who want something fun looking yet practical.

George,

"Where is the 6 speed automatic? (6T45E)"

A. Can't handle the torque?
B. On a tight budget?
C. GM thinks that the customers won't know the difference and treats them like dummies?

But the automatic one already has reduced power, only 235hp.
The 6T45E is the 'beefed up' version of the 6T40E.

So the answer is C.

I rented an HHR LT while I was on vacation in Hawaii earlier this month and really liked it. It had loads of room, drove well, and returned great fuel economy while loaded with the family and beach gear.

Not sure why it's being bashed by some here, other than the fact that it's a Chevy. Maybe if it were a Scion they'd be tripping over themselves singing its praises...

George,
Isn't that the way GM and FoMoCo been doing business?
Rebadging vehicles to all different brands, so that they compete with themselves; keeping the best vehicles out of America's reach; keeping outdated technology to us, but offer some top of the line with a hefty sticker.

Actually, the answer is likely that their capacity to mass produce the new 6sp auto transmission isn't high enough to drop it in every car they sell....

Did anyone even notice that the SS has the window controls on the door? That alone makes it better than the previous models. Keep in mind that this is a mini Suburban that gets good gas milage and can haul! I can't wait til they come out.

I really like this car. It fits the need if you just want a car to travel around town in or short weekend getaways with out costing a fortune in gas in taking a larger SUV. I just bought an '05 Isuzu Ascender (Trailblazer) which I love, now I need a way to justify a way to get this HHR. I think I'll lose that battle with my wife!

hey cut out the old people comments. us teenagers in Southern CA love the HHR there an awesome beach wagon and the racks great for a surfboard

Can't wait to try an SS...I have a base '07 with a 5 speed...only mods were a 2.25 Flowmaster and 17/7 HPD wheels with performance tires. It goes like stink....I don't back down from anyone, and yet it consistantly gets 42+ mpg on the highway. I've put 28,000km on it in the last 6 months and enjoyed every one. In my 42 years of driving, owning over 120 vehicles, and having competitively road-raced, drag-raced, and rallied, the HHR (Heritage Hot Rod!)is "the most "FUN" car I have ever owned!!!! Do I "need" to spend a few more dollars to own an SS? I'll know as soon as I drive one....... and I hope the "FUN FACTOR" won't put to big a strain on the old ticker.......

does it only come in red with the racing seats?

HHR = Heritage High Roof, not Hot Rod.

Wait til you've tried the EP3.

I love it, I bought the first HHR SS in the country, got rid of the 07 LT for this one....

I drove one this weekend and it was a blast. I drive a new body style duramax as a daily driver but this little car rips. Had a ton of power and the handling was phenominal for a car of this caliber. So before you bash or discount this car, go drive one. It will surprise you.

I have a 2007. My first 5000 mile trip across the country I got 30-43 mpg.
In town about 24-27.

This is a great care, the 2.4, but the rotors suck.

Just bought a 2008 HHR SS awesome ride and yea I`m a baby boomer looking for some excitement.

First of all, this can't be compared to a Mazdaspeed 3, VW GTI, or WRX. They are cars, not compact SUV's. The competing vehicles mentioned at the beginning are more appropriate. Saying that this is only targeted to 35+ soccermoms is absurd. I'm a younger guy preparing for marriage.

Anyway, the HHR finally gets the power it needs for its size. As a daily driver, I wouldn't need 260hp (I have another car I enjoy on weekends), but with emissions and fuel economy comparable to a Civic Si, I won't complain.

We pick up our new HHR SS this evening,trading in our 06 SSR.
We test drove it several times,looks real cool,quick,great mileage....can't wait!!!!!

Ben you will love it.Do not buy the GM splash guards as they will not fit the SS even though they say it will. Only issue I have with mine is sometimes when you start out cold the breaks don`t work properly!

I beg to differ on the HHR being called an SUV and not a car. I believe it is siting on the same chassis as the Cobalt (Is that not a car?).
Not to change the subject on what it is, but I have a question on an article I read in an auto magazine. Can't remember if it was R&T or MT. The March article stated that one of the options of the SS HHR was a limited slip including the front brake Brembo upgrade. The article went on to say that this option was the one worth the money. Strangely enough my local dealer had no such info. on that option.
There was the limited slip but no brake upgrade for the SS.
I was a little disappointed but I have faith that GM will offer the option for safety's sake. I might have bought the car if it had had this deperately needed option that day.
George, are you listening while you are reading? As long as I'm in the customizing mode, how about a functional hood scoop with a true ram airred intake. That would wake up a few more ponies.

I've got one. Traded in my HHR LT2 for it. Fast, handles great and I'm very proud of it. Not a bit sorry I got it. And, no, I have no interest in the Mazdaspeed3, WRX, or VW GTi. The automatic, by the way, is not a 235 horse. The automatic transmission comes with a 250 horsepower engine.

And by the way the battery is still in the back compartment (good) and "Heritage Hot Rod" Is what many owners call it!!

Is anyone having brake problems? My dealer says he is having major issues with a lot of the HHR's in my area. They squeel, gring and sound like a train coming to a stop. It is very very loud! Chevy is now going to replace some parts that may help. I really wanted to trade for a new 2009 but this brake thing has me worried. (Has been in shop 4 times but no one can fix them) Any suggestions or help would be appreciated. Other than that I totally love this car!!!!! Thanks, JT

Haven't had any problems with the brakes so far except as Jim mentioned earlier when you start out they are very stiff the first time you use them. Otherwise, mine have been quiet and very efficient/strong at stopping the car.

HHR has been an awsome 4door value since it was introduced...this review is poorly written and tries too hard to place emphasis on its "sport performance". Its great that GM hyped up the engine and suspension, but lets not forget that the vehicle is a four door wagon under 20K. Has more cargo room than a P/T etc. et....and can really compete up at the gas pump. Great idea on paper to reality it is......exotic sport car its not.

I have rented and driven many smaller cars and although it does not have the legendary Toyota quality, I have not experienced a car in its class that has as great a ride, handles as well and has great sound insulation plus great gas mileage. It also has great options. For the price, I know of nothing out there that comes close to meeting all of the positives of the HHR.I plan to buy the SS model but will wait till the initial excitement is over and the price comes down.

Awesome Ride! Just got one myself, 08' HHR SS, black on black, stick shift, 6-Disc 270 watt sound system with a 10" sub woofer, limited slip differential, XM Radio, Performance driver's seat and a sunroof.

*Don't forget, "No Lift Shift", "Launch Control", "Competetive Mode". Double tap your Traction Control button and get ready to experience 0.9 Gs of lateral force, haha.

i accually just got a brand new HHR SS and raced a GTI and left it behind by at least 5 cars. The guy pulled up next to me on the next lights and was amazed that an SUV just smoked him.

I bought an hhrss and i'm not a babyboomer or soccermom. this car is sweet and for those who assume that it cant compete on the road with its foreign counterparts. you are dead wrong i've smoked plenty of scions and subarus. all who are interested in this vehicle, get one the performance is great and the milage is awesome i get around 35 on the highway 29 to work and back.

I just bought the HHR SS... for a small car, 260hp is a lot. i smoked my brother's Silverado with a 5.3 and AEM intake and catback exhaust..... so dont tell me this thing cant compete with any of those "rice rockets". ive smoked some subaru's and some VW's as well. has a smooth ride, and the seats fold down flat in the back, so if i do any late surfing....i can sleep ^_^

HHR IS THE ONE.. i traded in my HORRIBLE Scion XB. you cant compare a Toyota to the HHR, the HHR is far better. The scion rides like a tank, actually hurts my back on long rides, no im not old.. Scion XB's interior wears really bad only 1 year ? Exterior sheet metal is super thin like a tin can. had a small 5 mph accident and the car was basically totaled, the Aurora had only paint issues. Be careful of foreign car dealers, i like how they keep problems hushed. No overdrive or cruise control offered. XB does not have any power compared to the HHR. XB interior engine noise level is far too loud when floored. Overall you cant go wrong with the HHR i love it. 5 times better. HHR Excellant, very good fuel economy, smooth comfortable ride.

Has anyone experienced the supersonic thruming noise when the rear windows are lowerd on the higway. I did recently and when I took it to the dealer they said that it happens on some vehicles. Any comments on this problem would be appreciated

I just bought a 2008 HHR SS. I am a Mom and find this car works really well for what our family requires including amazing gas mileage. I too am having issues with my brakes on the first start of the day and just took it into the shop to have it looked at and was then basically told I was lying because they couldn't find anything wrong. I'm not sure what to do as the dealer doesn't seem to believe me and this is quite an issue for me since I have a sloping driveway and it's very difficult to stop in the mornings. Also, my rear brakes were squealing a bit which I got them to check out and to which they told me that it is from rust build up on the brakes from the car sitting on the lot before it was bought. They said because I only have 4000 kms (I'm in Canada) on it I should just put some more mileage on it and it should go away. Hopefully this helps anyone else who is having that problem! About the "supersonic thruming noise" it is also referred to as "buffeting". We used to have this issue in our '65 Volkswagon Beetle and I was under the impression it was only an issue in older vehicles. But I have had this issue with our HHR as well. I am beginning to believe that it is because of the shape per say of the vehicle and the roundness of it. All you need to do is open one or both of the front windows or vent your sunroof..that should fix the problem.

I just purchased the HHR SS (08) and it is a really fun car to drive. I am very concerned about a braking issue I am having. In one of the earlier postings you spoke of the brakes not working properly when cold. If my car sits for over 4 hours then they don't work for about 100 feet and you have to try pumping the brakes until they start working. The dealership told me they don't know why it happened and suggested I take the care back until they come up with a fix. I was not really pleased with that thought so I am now in a rental...anyone else with this problem have any suggestions?

uncyb,

the drumming sound with the windows down at speeds happens in quite a few vehicles these days. i think it's from the b-pillars growing thicker and thicker to meet safety regulations...really messes up the aerodynamics with the windows down. my ion did it, my focus does it, and several other newer cars with thick b-pillars exhibit the same symptom.

I have discussed the brake issue with the dealership and this is a known problem with these cars and the GM brakes. It's nothing to be too worried about and definitely nothing to send the car back for. They don't work perfectly for maybe a minute or so after starting the car when it hasn't been running for a few hours..they're not going to stop working on you. This is a very common issue. It was suggested to me by my sales person to take the car to a brake place (not GM but a guaranteed specialty brake place) to get the brakes done when they need to be fixed due to regular maintenance. This may cure the problem. GM is well aware of the brake problem.

I have my 08 HHR SS in the shop now for the brake problem. The Pontiac Solstice GXP has the same problem. They fixed that with a vacuum pump. The problem is no vacuum to the brakes at start up. If you rev up the engine a couple of time before you start it goes away. This is not the answer but works till GM has one. Automatics are worse.
Pat

Going tomorrow to test drive a 08 loaded HHR, never been in one. Hope to get rid of our fuel sucking 04 Tahoe, what a great vehicle. If all goes well we hope to order a Sunburst 09 HHR SS, hope they get the brake issues fixed. Cross your fingers, we shall see if soccer mom likes the HHR!!

There is a fix for the brakes, to settle a few other questions and comments I have an 08 SS, it does have the optional Brembo front brakes....yes they are available. Only issue I had was the turbo would'nt work at times and chevy also has a TSB on that with an updated turbo bypass valve. As far as the turbulance noise with the rear windows half down...welcome to the late model vehicle world...I am a 23 year master technician and almost all vehicles with 4 doors do it. Roll them up or all the way down....dont know what else to tell ya. Now....for all you bashers about the performance...I have won against VW GTI, V6 accura, Mazda RX8, several Mazda miata's, made the guy in a Dodge Truck with a turbo really embarrassed about his smokin fords and S##tin CHevys sticker he was so proud of in the rear glass, smoked 2 Dodge Magnums with the Hemi from a 40 mph roll, an SRT4 and stayed door to door with a porche on the interstate from 60 mph to 140 mph. There ya have it haters lol Now....I did get my butt spanked by a new model corvette from 0 to 120 mph by atleast 6 car lengths...think I will stay in my class after that lol

I have 2 HHRs, an '07 LT2 and an '08 SS and they are great and fun cars. We did a 4500 mile roadtrip in the LT and it had lots of room and was comfortable. The SS is fun, fast, and sticks to the road. The '08 SS is having the same brake problem. GM has a bullitin on the issue (SS only). They recommend a "software upgrade" done at no charge. It did not work for us. The car is in the shop, again. I start the car and let it idle for a couple minutes (only if it has been parked for more than 4 hours). The brakes work fine then. It feels as if the vacuum assist is not working or maybe the anti-lock system is interfering with braking.

Back in the 70's I had a 1950 surbaban, six cylinder, three on the tree, that sucked dirt up into the vehicle on dirt roads. It was reliable, yet not quick! I only broke away from Chevy once in my life and it was a '96 T/A WS6, Ram Air Pontiac with the roller LT1 engine. It has over 100,000 miles on it and still burns up the highway, and tires lol! I may be old but I ain't dead! I bought an 06 LT2 which was a huge improvement over the PT boat I traded in! I traded it for an 08 HHR SS and love it! I have been a tech for over 30 years and I am also having the brake problem on start up! They did the programming update per the service letter, then denyed doing it, then did it again the second trip to their service dept. The boost/vacuum guage definately proves it to be a vacuum problem as it drops from 5-10 inches of vacuum, after starting engine, to zero. My dealer's service team, including the service mgr. have dismissed this as "normal operation"and a "design flaw" which GM has no fix for as of now! They are hiding their heads in the sand trying to avoid that third time to be unable to repair the problem. They take me for a dumb*** however I know that this is dangerous (when not expecting it). They are trying to say that it is the turbo blowing air into the booster!"NOT" They are the dumb***'s. The guage isn't showing any boost because there is none at idle! I am working with the GM/Chevrolet support team who at the present are suppoded to contact me after the holliday. I have also turned in a complaint to the NHTSA and recommend all who are experienceing rhis to do the the same! This way we might get a recall sooner! I haven't checked but I suspect a problem with a check valve at the booster, if it even has one! I like this car and don't want to trade for a non-turbo model as the service mgr. recommended nor do I wish to use the lemon law! I just want it fixed. I don't want to see my wife or myself involved in an accident because of the problem! GM may have deep pockets for the upcoming liable suits but if they only used their head for thinking they could fix this much cheaper. The vehicle I have has the awesome "Blue Flash" paint job, a cheap option that bodyshops hate to see! It has black SS seats,and mine is the only SS I've seen around here. I notice no one mentioned the four-wheel disc brakes or the excess brake dust accumulation on the front wheels.

The check valve was the first part that the dealer threw at the car, with no help for the problem. It was just a guess, because they did not have the car long enough for the problem to occur. Also, I notice that the service technicians do not do a follow-up test drive. They are eager to return the car to me right after the "repair" is made. It is now in the shop for the third time.
Ours' too is the "Blue Flash" paint. It is very sharp looking. We are currently adding genuine GM chrome door handles and lift handle for the hatch to dress it up a bit.

Does anybody know if the brake problem plagues both automatic and standard transmission models? Mine is an automatic transmission.

I just purchased and 08 HHR SS with a manual and I have not experienced the brake problems that others have reported. I did however hear of it prior to buying the car. From what I understand it is vacuum related and occurs more frequenlty on the automatics then on the 5-speeds. Someone mentioned above that the Brembo brake package is available on the 08's but that is not true. Only on the currently arriving 09's are they available.

Just general comments about this car. I'm 39 years old, married and with a child. I bought this car for mainly its fun factor and it does not dissappoint! Utility is also amazing. You can really load this thing up. Not to offend any HHR owners but I did not and still do not like the LS and LT models. The SS version has enough visual tweeks to make the car really standout from the crowd. There is no other car in the market that looks like this. The power is amazing as well. Very smooth delivery and gets up to speed quickly. I imagine that after I break this car in (only 300 miles on it) that I will embarass a number of import and domestic cars alike. I just let my brother who is a long time Mustang fan drive it and he is already discussing buying one. Gas mileage; I hit 35.6 mpg on highway driving. Managed 31 on my commute to work this morning eventhough I hit traffic.

I own a 2008 HHR SS with serious brake issues. GM refuses to admit there is even a problem and sent me off to drive away in an unsafe vehicle. If you are one of the many people having brake problems with your 2008 HHR SS (auto) please contact

Green Welling LLP - National Class Action Attorneys
rsgclasscounsel.com
415-477-6700

They are evaluating the 2008 HHR SS brake issue. They have not yet decided to take the case, but they are gathering information. They need additional information so if you too are experiencing problems with your HHR SS brakes, please contact them and provide them with information. GM needs to fix the problem or work with us in finding a solution, not send us away driving unsafe vehicles. Not everyone is experiencing this problem. If you are not, disregard. If you are, help may be at hand.

I own a 2008 HHR SS with serious brake issues. GM refuses to admit there is even a problem and sent me off to drive away in an unsafe vehicle. If you are one of the many people having brake problems with your 2008 HHR SS (auto) please contact

Green Welling LLP - National Class Action Attorneys
rsgclasscounsel.com
415-477-6700

They are evaluating the 2008 HHR SS brake issue. They have not yet decided to take the case, but they are gathering information. They need additional information so if you too are experiencing problems with your HHR SS brakes, please contact them and provide them with information. GM needs to fix the problem or work with us in finding a solution, not send us away driving unsafe vehicles. Not everyone is experiencing this problem. If you are not, disregard. If you are, help may be at hand.

I recently totaled out a 2006 HHR, and I must say for a car that got such great gas milage the depeciation on it is tremendous. Geico only offered me 8300 for the car. I bought it new took excellent care of it never missed an oil change, keeped it clean, and it's only worth a measley $8300.00 I still owe almost twice that.

After I finally got used to the brake issue and rev it up a couple of times to build vacuum I got back to enjoying it again! I'm still quite upset with GM but Karma got 'em! The "LAUNCH" mode is certainly a cool trick as it works on the automatic vehicle as well! I was under the understanding it was only available on manual transmission models but I had to try it and to my surprise, a straight line burn-out with no side pull in steering as in a normal take off, but a much more powerful"LAUNCH"!!! This SS model is way more powerful than the '06 LT-2 model I traded in and the door window switches are a definate plus! My wife misses the heated seat option we had on the leather seats in our'06, but she would never go back to the PT Cruiser we had before that! I wish GM would offer a crome turbo to air filter pipe with less restriction than the original equipment unit which would probably give a Horse Power increase that didn't void the warranty! It could be built from steel pipe bent at a muffler shop and sent ot for crome plating. All in all I am satisfied with my purchase and recommend the SS option to everyone in the market for this type of vehicle! Now we wait to see what happens with the "NEW GM"!!!