The Chevrolet HHR made headlines when it was first released for the 2006 model year. Now, three years later, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR is continuing to turn heads. Featuring vintage-inspired styling, impressive fuel economy, and a number of available upgrades, the 2009 HHR is sure to please most buyers. However, a large number of features are not standard on the model, making several other compact wagons, like the Audi Avant Wagon, more appealing choices. The 2009 HHR is a carryover from the prior model year.

The exterior is both contemporary and retro at the same time. With inspiration from Chevrolet's classic 1940's trucks, the HHR combines a boxy appearance, with oversized fender flares, and a curved front grille. An exterior accent package can be added that includes polished chrome trim as well.

Under the hood, the Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a 2.2L DOHC Ecotec four-cylinder engine that can generate up to 149 horsepower. The engine can be upgraded to a 2.4L model that produces around 172 horsepower. The SS trim level features a powerful 260 horsepower turbocharged 2.0L DOHC Ecotec four-cylinder. A Getrag five-speed manual transmission is standard, but buyers can outfit their model with a four-speed electronically controlled automatic if needed. The HHR gets an EPA estimated 21 city MPG and 30 highway MPG, beating most of the competition on the market. This feature could be a high selling point for the model, but the tradeoff is a less powerful engine than that of many comparable vehicles.

Head-curtain side-impact airbags and many other desirable features are not included with the base model, which might turn off families with children or those that are simply in search of a model with a number of standard safety features. Nevertheless, the HHR does include a generous amount of storage space, a premium Pioneer sound system, and cruise control.

One of the highlights of the 2009 Chevrolet HHR is the free one-year subscription to OnStar. This safety program includes instant accident alerts, turn-by-turn navigation provided by an OnStar representative, and stolen vehicle location assistance. By using the OnStar system, many law enforcement agencies across the country have been able to quickly find stolen vehicles. Not only that, some insurance companies offer incentives to buyers who purchase a model equipped with the OnStar program.

a base MSRP of $17,930, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR is affordable for most families; however, with the lack of standard features, other models end up on top. Individuals looking for a fuel efficient, stylish model might find the HHR to fit their tastes, but comparable models can be found that surpass the HHR in both fuel efficiency and contemporary design.