For Sale: 2008 Chevrolet HHR in Morgantown, Pennsylvania

2008 Chevrolet HHR SS

The HHR SS was the high performance variant of the Chevrolet HHR, a retro styled compact wagon that was inspired by late 1940's and early 1950's Chevrolet cars and trucks like the 1947 Suburban. Launched in 2007, the SS model was specifically tuned by General Motors Performance Division and along with engine modification, included an exterior treatment such as aggressive fascia, special wheels, and an integrated rear wing.

For consignment, a 2008 Chevrolet HHR SS with a title verified 112,773 actual miles. Per our consignor, the car has a new turbocharger and brakes. Though compact, the HHR has surprisingly ample interior space and base models were commonly used for rental fleets serving as fuel efficient wagons that could handle plenty of luggage.

Exterior
While the base models were offered in more than 20 colors, the special SS was offered in just five and Victory Red was one of them. A handsome and slightly aggressive extended front bumper was added to SS models with integrated fog lights and a black mesh lower grill to match the upper. Side cladding visually connects the flared fenders, just like a running board would have back in the day, and these fenders surround 18-inch five spoke chrome wheels specific to the SS, wrapped in 45 series tires. An extended bumper cover in back, color keyed of course, make way for the large exhaust tip while a rear wing hovers overhead on the hatch. SS emblems adorn each side and dual antennas add to the package's spirited exterior. Some scuffs on the chin, curb rash on the wheels, and some rust on the rocker panel which hints of the underside, are the imperfections we note on the outside.

Interior
The molded plastic door panels on the all black interior show a bit of wear but are fully intact and include lower storage bins. Black cloth bucket seats with suede like inserts occupy the front, embroidered with the coveted SS logo, while the rear bench shares the materials in a much more straight panel approach. The driver benefits from a sporty steering wheel, leather wrapped and replete with thumb controls framing a rather simple gauge cluster with a tach that overlaps the speedometer. Taking a cue from the tuner crowd, a boost gauge is on the A-pillar and that's a factory application. The dash is otherwise composed of hard, textured plastic and the center stack has an integrated AM/FM/CD player and standard GM A/C panel with the shifter floor mounted in the center console. Gray colors the carpet and foam backed headliner and the wayback is also carpeted and even with the second row up, provides some nice storage space.

Drivetrain
Under the hoods is a 2.0 liter Ecotec 4 cylinder putting out a respectable 260 horsepower, just as it did in later Cobalt SS models. It's fuel injected and this one is tied to a 5-speed manual with power staying up front, routed through 4.05 gears. Four wheel power disc brakes are the obvious choice for this little performance wagon.

Undercarriage
Let's get right to it. We note substantial rot underneath on the inner rocker panels, rear crash bar, and on the rear unibody. It's a shame, because the topside is in very good condition overall. There is some bubbling on the door bottoms that can be seen with doors open. The remainder of the underside has typical patina and plenty of surface rust but dry conditions. The single exhaust, colored by surface rust, runs through the original equipment muffler and exits via a chrome tip. Suspension consists of Macpherson struts in front and semi independent coil springs in back.

Drive-Ability
Like a Mini Cooper, the HHR SS feels like a normal sized car once you're on the inside. As a former SS owner, one thing to note is that the windshield is narrow and takes some getting used to if you're at the head of an intersection looking at the traffic light. Beyond that, a comfortable cabin, surefooted stance, and spry engine make daily commutes spirited and this one runs well, begging to be thrown into turns with its short wheelbase and nimble ride. The sunroof is a nice feature here and lets light into the cavernous interior, and all functions operate as they should during our test. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.

These practical little pocket rockets were used as daily drivers and so often have some wear and mileage, as this one demonstrates. These are rare to see on the street today and have started showing up at car shows and cruise nights. We think their collectability is as of yet unrealized, but the absolute uniqueness of the HHR SS will surely make it a desirable one to have in your stable.

3GNCA73XX8S683347

3-Mexico
G-General Motors
N-Chevrolet
C-4001 to 5000 GVWR
A7-HHR SS
3-Manual Belts, Front Airbags
X-2.0 Liter Turbo I4
X-Check Digit
8-2008
S-Ramos Arizpe, Mexico Assy Plant
683347-Sequential Unit Number

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.

With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!