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

[Zerf]

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.

[matt]

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

[Dave T.]

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

[J]

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

[MSS]

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.)

[Tekkie]

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.

[Ziggy]

Who really cares?

i do

[Tekkie]

Heh, glad somebody agrees with me.

[George]

Where is the 6 speed automatic? (6T45E)

[Troy]

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.

[ziggy]

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

[npoll212]

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.

[Dave T.]

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.

[J]

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?

[George]

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.

[cody]

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...

[J]

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.

[cody]

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....

[Nitesmoke]

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.

[Dave]

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!

[Joseph]

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

[Rodder-rick(NB,Canada)]

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?

[J]

HHR = Heritage High Roof, not Hot Rod.

Wait til you've tried the EP3.

[Don Chilton]

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

[caroftheweek]

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.

[jr wilding]

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.

[Jim]

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

[Moe]

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.

[Ben]

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!!!!!

[Jim]

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!

[Eddie Salaiz]

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.

[socrfan]

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.

[socrfan]

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

[JT]

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

[socrfan]

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.

[I.B.]

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.

[sking]

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.

[Jason]

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.

[Bart]

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.

[dana]

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.

[Nick]

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 ^_^

[monook]

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.

[uncyb]

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

[Glenda]

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.

[Tracy]

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?

[cody]

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.

[Glenda]

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.

[Pat]

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