The HHR offered three main engine options during its production run: a 2.2-liter Ecotec inline-four, a 2.4-liter Ecotec inline-four, and the high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged engine used in the HHR SS. Some markets also offered flex-fuel capable variants of the smaller engines. The HHR was produced from 2006 to 2011, with the turbocharged option appearing in the later SS model years.
Overview of the engine options
The following list outlines the primary powerplants that were available across the HHR’s lifespan, including typical power figures and general notes about availability.
- 2.2-liter Ecotec inline-four (RPO LE5/L61) producing roughly 143 horsepower and about 150 lb-ft of torque. This engine was common on base and mid-level trims and could be paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic in various model years.
- 2.4-liter Ecotec inline-four (RPO LEA) delivering about 172 horsepower and around 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available on higher trims and offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic in different configurations.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged Ecotec inline-four (RPO LNF) with 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, used exclusively in the HHR SS. It came with a 6-speed manual transmission and was the performance flagship of the lineup.
In summary, the HHR’s engine choices centered on a base 2.2L, a more muscular 2.4L, and the high-performance 2.0L turbo in the SS, with flex-fuel variants appearing in some markets for the smaller engines.
Details by engine variant
2.2-liter Ecotec inline-four (LE5/L61)
The 2.2L Ecotec was the staple powerplant for early HHR models. It produced around 143 hp and roughly 150 lb-ft of torque, and was typically offered with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. This engine powered base and mid-range trims from 2006 through the later years of production, with regional variations in available transmissions and options. Some versions were flex-fuel capable, depending on market and model year.
2.4-liter Ecotec inline-four (LEA)
The 2.4L Ecotec provided a noticeable step up in horsepower to about 172 hp and torque near 162 lb-ft. It was commonly paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, and it was available on higher trim levels and in certain market configurations from 2006 through 2011. Flex-fuel capability was available on some versions in select markets.
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (LNF) — HHR SS
The HHR SS marked the performance crown of the lineup, using a 2.0L turbocharged engine delivering about 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and offered enhanced sport-oriented features, including a more aggressive suspension and styling cues. This variant was introduced in the model years around 2009–2011 and was primarily available in the US market, often as a standalone SS trim.
Market variations and notes
Engine availability could vary by region, trim level, and model year. Some markets offered flex-fuel capable versions of the smaller engines, while the turbocharged 2.0L unit was largely restricted to the HHR SS, reflecting its performance focus. Transmission options also varied by year and trim, with manual transmissions more commonly paired with the 2.2L and 2.4L engines, and the SS using a 6-speed manual.
Summary
The Chevrolet HHR offered a straightforward but versatile engine lineup: a 2.2L Ecotec for efficiency, a 2.4L Ecotec for balanced performance, and the potent 2.0L turbo in the SS for enthusiasts. Throughout 2006–2011, buyers could choose between these three powerplants, with some markets adding flex-fuel options on the smaller engines, and the SS delivering a distinct high-performance option with turbocharged power and a manual transmission.