Question about using premium fuel in with the 2.4

I am looking at purchasing an HHR. Looking to find one with the 2.2 engine but want the chrome and sunroof package. I know they are out there in the 2.2 but have come accross some used ones just the way I like but they have the 2.4 engine and someone told me that you should use premium fuel but thought you could use regular. With the high gas prices right now that is why the 2.2 is more appealing.

Can you use regular with the 2.4? If so does it effect the mpg's? I am guessing the preformace would suffer. Looks to be a good car.

Thanks!

I have an 06 LT with auto and 2.4L.. I had been using 87 octane since purchasing the car new. At the beginning of 08, I tried an experiment using 93 octane for five tankfuls of gas. I averaged 30.3 mpg with 93 octane. My last five tankfuls using 87 octane I averaged 32.5 mpg. The cars computer will "detune" the car's timing to eliminate any pre detonation. There may be some loss in performance, but hardly noticable with my driving techniques.

Unless you are in for spirited driving, 87 octane works out well. With gas prices at $3.60+/gallon for 87 octane vs $3.80+ for 93 octane the $2 per fill up is better in my pocket than with Exxon.

On my 07 hhr lt, 2.4 purchaced new,
I used 92 octane gas thinking it would be the best for my new ride,(however)
apx. 30.000 miles it was ideling funny,the dealer told me to quit using premium
gas due to it burns slower,thus leaving a residue on the throttle body.
Back to 87 octane,no more issues.