Is HHR front or rear wheel drive?
The HHR is designed as a front-wheel-drive vehicle, with an optional all-wheel-drive configuration on some trims and model years; there is no rear-wheel-drive version in the lineup.
Understanding the HHR's Drivetrain
To assess how the HHR handles on the road, it's important to know how its drivetrain options were structured during its production years. This helps explain fuel economy, handling, and maintenance considerations for both prospective buyers and current owners.
Drivetrain Configurations
Below is a concise breakdown of the HHR’s main drivetrain options. This list covers the typical configurations found across most model years and trims.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) — standard on nearly all models, delivering power to the front wheels for everyday driving and better fuel economy.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) — an optional system on select trims and years, capable of sending power to all four wheels when traction is reduced and improving grip in rain, snow, or slippery conditions.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) — not offered on the HHR; there has not been a production model with a dedicated rear-wheel-drive layout.
In practice, most HHR buyers encountered FWD as the default setup, while AWD was available as an upgrade on certain configurations depending on the market and production year.
Implications for Ownership
For everyday use, FWD provides predictable handling and better fuel efficiency. If you live in an area with winter weather or variable road conditions, an AWD-equipped HHR can offer additional traction, though it adds complexity and cost. There is no option to purchase an HHR with pure rear-wheel drive, so enthusiasts seeking a traditional RWD layout would need to consider other models.
Summary
Bottom line: the Chevrolet HHR is primarily front-wheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive on some trims and years. There is no rear-wheel-drive version of the HHR. When evaluating a used HHR, check the specific model year and trim to confirm whether AWD was included and how it affects maintenance and fuel economy.
How much is a 2006 HHR worth today?
A 2006 Chevrolet HHR has depreciated $475 or 17% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $2,279 and trade-in value of $606.
What is an HHR classified as?
A less provocative vehicle presentation than the SSR, the Chevrolet HHR found a following as a small family vehicle as well as a commercial vehicle. Officially classified as a truck, the vehicle shared many mechanical details with the Chevrolet Cobalt compact car.
Is the HHR front wheel drive or rear wheel drive?
front-wheel drive
The Chevrolet HHR (an initialism for Heritage High Roof) is a retro-styled, high-roofed, five-door, five-passenger, front-wheel drive wagon designed by Bryan Nesbitt and launched by the American automaker Chevrolet at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show as a 2006 model.
What is the most common problem with a Chevy HHR?
A loose or worn gas cap has been a common issue found in all Chevy HHR model years. Although there haven't been any reports of performance loss or drivability issues due to the problem, an illuminated check engine light has been a common occurrence reported by the affected owners.
