Hi guys,

Thanks for letting me join the forum. My wife and I are looking to replace her current vehicle ( 01 civic ). The civic is going to her mom and we were either looking at getting a HHR or a Saturn.

Which model gets better MPG's? The SS is out of the question for us. A little out of our budget plus this will be her car. I have a 04 Coloardo ZQ8 with 27K miles. Only options we really want / need are just auto trans, power windows and locks and A/C. Fogs and stuff I can install later on via relays off the side markers or headlights.

We are planning to buy later at end of year since this year will be good to get a new vehicle cheap because of the whole economy crisis. Fortunately where we live ( Austin, TX ) the economy is pretty resiliant.

Thanks for the input...

 

It sounds like you are looking for an LS or 1LT model. I personally would look for one with ABS because it is not standard on those models. Otherwise, either would have the options you are looking for.

 

Cool. Didn't know that. We definately want the ABS although.....the civic doesnt have it. Go figure.

Been looking at used ones but Im pretty sure we could probably buy a new one come Sept-Oct for the price of a used one.

 

The 2.2 and 2.4 engines get about the same mileage. You might get a really good deal on an 08 when the 09s start hitting the lots.

 

The 2LT has ABS standard. It is optional on the lower models, and at least around here most don't have it but a few do. Look at what your dealers stock through chevrolet.com and see what's commonly available in your area.

 

To compare mileages, what model Saturn are you also looking at?

If you are looking at the end of the year, the 09 will have more options standard (including ABS). The ony other option you listed was the auto. You can get that on any model. Most get at least the listed mileage on the HHR and some definatley get more on the highway that listed. Last week I did a 1400 trip that inlcuded 4 days of driving in Atlanta. on three tanks I got 29.8, 31.1, & 29.9 with the calcualtor, not the DIC. Granted most was highway driving, but that was also running 5 above the posted limit traveling to/from Atlanta/Charleston SC/Black Mountain NC, posted limit was 70 most of the way.

A lot of the Sautrns run the same 2.2 & 2.4 Ecotecs. So I'm sure they will be similiar.

 

Exactly my thoughts. I seen a 06 locally being sold for 12K with 20K miles on it. But not sure what size engine and stuff it has....checkout the link below.


http://houston.craigslist.org/car/690674015.html

 

Saturn Astra or Aura

 

WIth Saturns "no haggle" policy, you will probably get a better deal on the HHR. But the Aura is a nice car.

Here are the changes in the 09's if interested. Unless you are looking for used.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/lounge-10/2009-hhr-changes-14454/

 

Thanks alot for the input guys. We will definately keep our eyes open for any used deals. If we can find an 06 with low miles for like 10K or so we will purchase that instead. But end of year new vehicle isnt out of the question. We just gotta find the right moment ( when sales are down ) to pounce on a dealership and get a good deal.