warhawk77 - if you don't go for an SS, doing a trip like Sleeper did with upgrades to springs, sway bar(s) and tires can be a lot of fun, especially when you do them piece by piece. You will feel and appreciate the differences through the different upgrades. Best of luck whatever way you go.

 

I like the idea of doing the up grades piece by piece.

I thought snout lowering because I hear that stiffen the ride. But I will be using her to take my kids camping this spring and don't want to drag on dirt roads or fields.

 

I don't need the best handling just something that's fun to drive.

I do have to say stopping is very important so anything that will make stopping faster is a good idea.

 

This!

 

Heck, grab a 2LT and if the FE3 isn't stiff enough, throw a couple spring rubbers in like the boys from NASCAR - then when you want a softer ride, take them out! A lot cheaper than going the spring/strut route.

 

My 2007 1LT handles like a brick on wheels. You can certainly feel the roll. I can take a corner decently but my wife hates it as she can feel it and it gets scary for her.

Not that I expect to be gran touring or auto crossing with it but something that was definitly noticable. Hell my 2000 Buick Century feels safe and that probably due to the center of gravity and the weight split.

 

A rear anti-roll bar will solve this. Not too expensive and an easy DIY job.

 

Honestly the biggest thing you can do to make an HHR handle is to replace the awful OEM tires, slap premium performance tires on even a humble LS, and that sucker will handle!

 

Found a 2LT today but it got sold before I could drive it.

The anit-roll bar doesn't sound bad. A quick google search shows they are about $180 and if I can put it on my self on a weekend that would be a good choice.

I have heard tires are a good choice. What do you guys suggest and what to stay away from?

 

Goodyear Eagle GT....... Works very well for me.