Thanks for the input and info. Just a few more things before I call/email to order:
I currently also have a V8 powered 1998 Ford taurus SHO sation wagon (the SHOwagon) which I have a tuner for that was professionally programmed but can also be "tweeked" from my computer. The best way I can describe the difference from stock is that the vehicle is more responsive on the performance tune. Throttle response seems better. Can I expect similar results from the Trifecta budget tune?
How about fuel economy? With the SHO programmer, I can upload 3 different prestored tunes. So one I have is for performance, while another maximizes fuel efficiency. I can get an extra 2 or 3 mpg using this tune. Does the Trifecta affect milage?
How do most people set us the Trifecta as far as switching to the performance tune ... through he cruise control or traction control switch? What are the advantages/disadvantages of either?
Any info you can provide will be appreciated. Thanks.

The regular Trifecta tune[not budget] is a real ripper. You will definately tell the difference.
I use the cruise control button to switch from stock tune to Trifecta tune.
Difference between the two Trifecta tunes, is with the budget tune, you get no datalogging to fine tune your tune. I'd go with the regular tune from the get go. "Moon"

http://www.hptuners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=35671

imma drop this here also

how is the return time for the datalogging? do you have to wait a long time before they get back to you? and how does it get recorded?

I have had the regular Trifecta tune for a bit now and I also use the cruise control button to switch from stock tune to Trifecta tune... and I run in the 23 to 25 psi range.. at full boost.... :) love it!!!!

Nazgul, did you get the 3bar sensors? Or just Trifecta on stock & K&N?

I got the full trifecta but with just the K&N drop in filter... this car is a monster with the trifecta tune....

Is there any concern with a 100k mile 2008 getting the Trifecta budget tune with an auto trans? I guess that they de-tune the auto since the trans is weaker. What are your thoughts?

best 200 mod for an HHR especially an Auto HHR

I'm also looking at what tune to get, I can get a Superchips cortex for $250-$300 or the trifecta for $565+shipping I haven't seen Any recent activity confirming if Vince is still tuning hhr's though and my big worry is dropping $600 and not being able to have my tune customized

I want something capable of running low to mid 13 second 1/4 miles with my stock 2008 hhr as auto and just the tune

I'm really struggling on which to buy