Is the HHR SS fast?

Yes. The HHR SS is a quick performer for its class, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. In typical road tests, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 to 6.9 seconds and tops out around 140 mph. To understand how fast it feels on the road, this article breaks down the engine, performance figures, and practical considerations for buyers today.

Under the Hood: What Powers the HHR SS

The HHR SS relies on a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec I-4 engine delivering 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It channels power through a 6-speed manual transmission to the front wheels, aided by a limited-slip differential and a sport-tuned suspension to improve grip and handling. With a curb weight in the mid-3,400-pound range, the SS is built for spirited acceleration and confident highway cruising, backed by upgraded brakes and chassis hardware that distinguish it from the base HHR models.

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4, 260 hp, 260 lb-ft


• Transmission: 6-speed manual


• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive with limited-slip differential


• Suspension/Brakes: Sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes


• Weight: Approximately 3,400 pounds (varies by model year and options)

These components together give the HHR SS its punchy acceleration and confident handling for a small wagon-era performance model, though it remains heavier and less nimble than modern hot hatch rivals.

Performance in Real‑World Driving

When you take the numbers into the real world, the HHR SS feels noticeably responsive off the line and around the midrange. Its turbocharged torque helps it surge in urban traffic and on exit ramps, while the manual gearbox provides direct engagement for enthusiastic driving. The chassis setup is tuned to balance ride comfort with sportier body control, though the overall ride remains firm by non-sport standards and the weight can influence cornering agility on aggressive roads.

Performance figures (typical ranges):

• 0-60 mph: around 6.5–6.9 seconds


• Top speed: about 140 mph


• Quarter mile: roughly 14.0–14.3 seconds at ~100 mph


• Braking (60-0): approximately 120–125 feet

On the road, these figures translate to brisk acceleration and a sportier feel than most non-turbo HHRs, but they also reflect the car’s age and weight compared with newer performance hatchbacks.

Contenders and Practical Realities

For buyers weighing what “fast” means in a 21st‑century context, the HHR SS sits between practical family wagons and late-2000s hot hatch benchmarks. It offers a distinct styling package and a manual-only transmission, which appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a hands-on driving experience. However, as a dated platform, it carries aspects that aren’t as polished as modern competitors, including ride refinement, interior noise, and long-term parts availability.

Before shopping or buying used, here are key considerations:

• Availability and pricing on the used market; the model is now discontinued (production years: 2008–2011)


• Fuel economy for a turbocharged small wagon (roughly in the high teens to mid-20s mpg, depending on driving style)


• Maintenance needs specific to turbocharged engines and aging GM platforms


• Potential wear on the suspension, transmission, and braking components due to age and usage

With careful inspection and service history, the HHR SS can still deliver a satisfying blend of performance and practicality for collectors or drivers seeking a unique, turbocharged wagon experience.

Summary

The HHR SS stands out as a fast, turbocharged variant in a now-rare segment: a compact wagon with genuine horsepower, a manual transmission, and sport-tuned hardware. Its 260-hp engine, 6-speed manual, and front-wheel-drive layout offered real acceleration benefits for its era, producing 0-60 times in the mid‑6-second range and a top speed near 140 mph. Today, it remains an appealing but aging option that appeals to enthusiasts who value distinctive styling and a hands-on driving experience, provided they’re prepared for the realities of owning a discontinued GM performance model.

What is the fastest Chevy SS?

The fastest Chevy SS is the 2025 Blazer EV SS, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. It holds the title of the quickest SS model ever produced by Chevrolet. For custom, modified vehicles, a twin-turbocharged Chevy SS sedan holds the world record for the fastest production SS in drag racing, with a best elapsed time of 7.26 seconds at 194 mph.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Blazer EV SS: 0:31ChevroletYouTube · Feb 14, 2025

• Production model: The 2025 Blazer EV SS is the fastest factory-produced SS model, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds. This performance is achieved through its Wide Open Watts™ mode, which delivers maximum electric power. 
• Custom/drag racing model: The fastest custom Chevy SS is a heavily modified sedan that has achieved a quarter-mile time of 7.26 seconds at 194 mph. This car is equipped with a twin-turbocharged engine and other performance modifications. 

This video showcases a modified Chevy SS sedan in action: 1m1320videoYouTube · Jun 21, 2023

How fast is the Chevy HHR SS?

150+ MPH
This turbo charged engine produces enginTisturbochrgeninepe 260 horsepower. This sport wagon will 0-60 less than 6.3 seconds and reaches speeds 150+ MPH.

Is the Chevy HHR SS rare?

And it pops kind of like a exotic car. But then you look inside. And there's no rear seat. It's all cargo there's no window it looks like there should be a window there's no window.

Is the Chevy HHR SS reliable?

The Chevy HHR is a dependable SUV. RepairPal scored it a 4.0 out of 5.0 in terms of reliability, ranking it 13th out of 36 compact cars. Many Chevrolet HHR owners bring in their SUVs for unscheduled repairs 0.3 times a year, which is less often than the usual 0.4.