I have test driven a few diff models and the handling is a bit sluggish.

I am thinking some stiffer springs/shocks could help with body roll. But that will stiffen the ride some I know.


As far as stopping faster, other than putting bigger breaks or disk in the rear not sure how else to help that out.


Are there any simple upgrades that can be done in a few hours. Or is the handling just what it is and can't be helped?

 

Did you test drive an SS ?

 

Not sure what models you have driven.... LS and 1LT have a softer setup than the 2LT "sport" suspension (also called the FE3) The FE3 with a rear swaybar is far from sluggish. The KYB replacement struts and shocks are FE3 specs so even with an LS/1LT decent handling is easy to achieve as the springs are the same between all those models. A pair of rear leveling springs wouldn't hurt either......

The SS has an FE5 which is a step above that.

 

I wish I could find a SS in my area.

I have driven a LS and two LT. Guess its my area but very few 2.4 in my area and I have not seen any 2LT or SS.

 

While they are not on every corner they are around. Here in Ohio I see them in the auto traders and other print sales ads. If you want to find one you should be able to find one with in 100 miles pretty easy. Ohio and Michigan there not that hard to find.

If you want to handle and stop just get an SS. For all you would invest in the other to get what you want you may as well pay the little more and get the engine to go with it too.

 

If you can find one the 2LT is a nice setup (as is the SS obviously) Besides the "sport" suspension, which also includes the 17" wheels, the 2LT comes standard with the 2.4L. (the 2.2L isn't even an option with the 2LT) The rest of the 2LT package, leather, premium radio, etc. just round it out nicely. Not that the lower models are "bad" in any way but the 2LT is a sweet package.

 

Keep looking for an SS , There out there , It will save you money for what your looing for . Mine maybe for sale very soon. I need a V

 

Doing some searching online I found some SS models but nothing with in 75 miles but I can wait a few weeks and maybe something will come up.

The diff in price of a 1LT and 2LT is kinda big looks like $3000-4000. Before I could go that much more I would have to see huge diff in handling.

I know the HHR will never be sports car handling just want a bit more fun daily driver.

 

Get an SS if you want the best handling HHR. Between my dad's 1LT and my former SS, the difference was night and day. You will spend probably enough in upgrading the suspension on a non HHR SS as buying a SS. Plus, you get a lot more power and nicer exterior/interior. SS's are going cheap these days vs. new. Once you test drive one, you won't want a non SS!

Dave

 

2LT Panel with cobalt SC springs & rear sway bar. Stickier tires & good ta go.. Hugs twisties almost like on rails !!

I'd test drive any first, the SS is not for me.. Not bad, just not what I wanted..