Originally introduced in 2006, the HHR was Chevrolet’s answer to the growing demand for vehicles that combine everyday utility with a unique visual personality. Whether you’re a fan of vintage aesthetics, need a versatile vehicle for daily use, or are simply hunting for a reliable used car with character, the 2011 HHR is worth a closer look.
Exterior Design
Designed by Bryan Nesbitt—who also helped shape the Chrysler PT Cruiser—the HHR pays homage to the post-war era of American automotive design, particularly the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban. This gives the HHR a distinct personality that sets it apart from the typical compact wagons and crossovers of its time.
The high roofline, wide fenders, and vertical front grille contribute to its vintage look, while the sleek lines and rounded edges create a more modern and aerodynamic profile. The tall stance not only adds to the visual appeal but also provides a higher seating position and more headroom inside the cabin.
In 2011, the HHR was available in several trims, including LS, 1LT, 2LT, and the performance-oriented SS (although the SS was discontinued by this model year in the U.S.). Details such as chrome door handles, roof rails, and optional 17-inch alloy wheels gave the HHR a touch of flair, while body-colored bumpers and mirrors kept the overall look cohesive.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2011 Chevrolet HHR, and you’ll find an interior designed with practicality in mind, wrapped in a retro-modern theme that echoes its bold exterior. While the interior materials lean more toward functionality than luxury, the layout is user-friendly and offers surprising versatility for a compact vehicle.
The cabin comfortably seats up to five passengers, with generous headroom thanks to the HHR’s tall roofline. Front seats are spacious and supportive, providing a comfortable driving position with good visibility. Rear-seat space is adequate for adults on shorter trips, though taller passengers may find legroom slightly limited on longer drives. However, the real highlight of the HHR’s interior is its impressive cargo flexibility. With both rear seats folded down, the HHR offers up to 63.1 cubic feet of cargo space—ideal for transporting luggage, groceries, camping gear, or even small furniture.
The dashboard design is simple, with large, clearly labeled controls. Standard features across most trims include air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with an auxiliary input jack. Whether you're commuting, running errands, or heading out on a weekend trip, the HHR's cabin is built to handle it all with ease.
Read Also : 2019 Chevrolet Cruze
Performance and Driving Experience
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR delivers a balanced performance tailored more toward daily driving comfort than high-speed thrills, though it offers enough power to confidently handle city and highway conditions. Two engine options were available for this model year, giving drivers the choice between fuel economy and a bit of extra punch.
The base engine is a 2.2-liter ECOTEC inline-four that produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are part of GM’s efficient ECOTEC family, known for their durability and respectable fuel economy.
Transmission options include a standard five-speed manual and an available four-speed automatic, depending on the trim level. It feels stable and composed on the road, with light steering that makes it easy to maneuver in tight parking spaces or urban streets.
The 2.2-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2.4-liter version is slightly lower but still competitive at 22/30 mpg (city/highway). This makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers who want to save on fuel without giving up space and utility.
Safety and Reliability
- Front and side curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers
- Antilock brakes (ABS) for enhanced control during sudden stops
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which helps maintain stability on slippery roads
- Traction control for improved grip in low-traction situations
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- OnStar emergency communication system, which was standard for the first six months after purchase
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it four out of five stars overall, with solid scores in frontal and side-impact crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the HHR "Good" ratings in frontal offset and side impact tests, although roof strength and rear crash protection were not as highly rated.
On the reliability front, the HHR has earned a reputation as a dependable daily driver, particularly with regular maintenance. Owners have praised the vehicle for its fuel-efficient engines and minimal long-term mechanical issues.
- Power window motor failures
- Faulty ignition switches (notably part of a widely publicized GM recall affecting multiple models)
- Worn suspension components in higher-mileage models
Fortunately, most of these issues are relatively minor and fixable, especially given the availability of aftermarket parts and affordable repairs.
Pros and Cons
Like any vehicle, the 2011 Chevrolet HHR comes with its strengths and weaknesses. Below is a detailed breakdown to help potential buyers weigh whether it’s the right fit for their needs.
Pros:
Unique, Retro Styling
The HHR’s vintage-inspired design gives it a distinct personality on the road. For drivers who want a car that stands out from the sea of modern sedans and crossovers, the HHR offers a refreshingly different look with nostalgic appeal.
mpressive Cargo Space
Fold-flat rear seats and a flat load floor allow up to 63.1 cubic feet of cargo space—rivaling small SUVs.
Fuel Efficiency
It strikes a solid balance between performance and fuel savings, making it a good choice for commuters and budget-conscious drivers.
Cons:
Dated Interior Design
While functional, the cabin design is basic and lacks the upscale materials or modern infotainment systems seen in newer vehicles.
Limited Rear Seat Comfort
Rear legroom is somewhat cramped, especially for taller passengers. It's suitable for short trips or younger passengers, but not ideal for long rides with adult backseat occupants.
Discontinued Model
Since the HHR was discontinued after 2011, some parts may be harder to find over time, and resale value may not hold as well as newer or still-produced vehicles.
Who Should Buy the 2011 HHR?
With its retro styling, versatile cargo space, and budget-friendly pricing on the used market, the HHR fills a niche that blends individuality with practicality. So, who’s the ideal owner?
Budget-Conscious Buyers Looking for Value
If you're searching for a used vehicle that’s reliable, fuel-efficient, and offers a lot of space for the money, the HHR is a smart pick. It's often priced lower than many small SUVs or wagons, making it a great option for students, first-time car buyers, or anyone looking to downsize from a larger vehicle without sacrificing utility.
Practical Daily Commuters
With solid fuel economy (especially with the 2.2L engine), a comfortable ride, and good visibility, the HHR makes a great commuter car. It’s also small enough to navigate urban environments while still offering SUV-like cargo space.
Small Business Owners or Gig Workers
Thanks to its large, flat cargo area and optional front-passenger seat that folds flat, the HHR is also a solid pick for small business owners, delivery drivers.
DIYers and Mechanically Savvy Drivers
Given its age and discontinued status, the HHR may occasionally require minor fixes or part replacements. DIYers and mechanically inclined owners will find it relatively easy to maintain, with many parts still available at reasonable prices.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
- Tech enthusiasts looking for modern infotainment, advanced driver assistance systems, or smartphone integration may feel the HHR is lacking.
- Buyers wanting long-term manufacturer support may prefer a newer model that’s still in production.
