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The newer power liftgates don't use a separate power lift mechanism - they just replace one of the non-power struts.
Here is a picture of the power lift strut that is on my 2016 Suburban:
Theoretically you could remove one of the manual struts and replace it with this one. You would have to do some calculations and geometry on closed vs open length to determine where to put the mounts so that it stops at the right height. You might even need to find a shorter power strut from a smaller SUV that is close to the manual strut in the HHR. Then you need to wire a switch or remote control to it.
Installing a powered strut might not be any big deal, but running it is. No support in the BCM. Designing and installing safe reliable controls would be quite a project. Not worth it.
It actually looks like there would be room for the larger actuators. It also looks like they may of planned for a power liftgate, but decided not to. There is 4 square inches of room in each upper corner, plus a rubber grommet in each corner of the liftgate that could be removed for running wires.
Although there doesn't seem to be an aftermarket kit, it sounded like a fun project if the parts would fit without too much work.
it does seem that non-powered struts are installed vertically, while powered struts are installed horizontal. Perhaps to minimize overall length?
The powered struts in my Suburban are installed vertically, just like the HHR struts.
Another thing to consider is that powered liftgates also have a power unlatch for the liftgate latch. There has to be a sequence of 1) unlatch the gate, and then 2) apply power to lift actuator to raise the liftgate. Then the reverse sequence to close the liftgate.
