db/sb

Since production of the HHR has reached the end, what good will that do?

nacademus

Considerations for later models-not necessarily HHR?

db/sb

I don't know. I think it's just a customer service based answer. The thread is about so called 'design errors' in the HHR. Don't see how that helps other models. Besides, HHR's have been out since, what, the fall of 2005? I think GM would already have compiled most if not all of the feedback they'd need in 6 years........

nacademus

You can compile feedback from reviewers, testers, general public perception, etc. however, receiving input from a community that chose the vehicle based on a more in-depth appreciation for it than say, the average user, is forever more useful.

It could very well be a generic customer service reply. On the other hand, this representative is on these forums a lot more than the average user is, and they offer real support for many of us here through PMs and thread posts. I doubt that it was BS.

db/sb

Don't get me wrong; I'm not equating the reply with BS., but, considering how long the vehicle has been in production, I'm just not sure how much useful info can be gained at this stage of the game. Not if GM has been listening all along.

diskullman

As a former Saab nut (had about 10 different saabs between the years of 97-93) I'm quite familiar with the Ecotec engine. I converted 2 Saabs from 3 speed automatic to 5 speed manual. This swap was like a turbo upgrade, as the 3 speed was a major slug and slow off the start, the 5 speed allowed for much faster acceleration.
Same problem with the HHR, with the 4 speed auotomatic, and the AC on, this pig is like a slug trying to get rolling. Other vehicles with the same engine (Sky , Solstice) use a 5 speed automatic, and I heardone of the newer Chevy models will have a 6 speed automatic.
Is it really a design flaw? Well, this has been common knowledge for over 20 years. The basic 2 liter engine is bullet proof and a great engine, but more gears in the trans really helps. Also 22/28 MPG is rather crappy for a 4 cylinder, but again, that's about what my last saab used to get.

Mowgli

32 highway here

Silverfox

33 -34 Hiway here..2011 2.4L w/auto 87 Octane fuel. Tires 32lbs. all around

But I drive like I'm Still SANE. (most of the time)

donbrew

When I drive ALL highway, 4 car lengths behind a truck I get 39 mpg (no truck 32). But in my real life I am averaging 22-28.

Regarding the auto trans; remember that those "3 speed" Saabs where actually 2 speed + overdrive and the HHR "4 speed" is 3 speed + overdrive. Meaning, you start out in a godawful gear, NOT geared for "pink slip acceleration" more for "little old lady with a cast on her ankle acceleration".

diskullman

You get that kind of mileage with a CEL and the oil light on?

And yes, just like Saabs, the turbos get better mileage.