Overview & Reviews

If asked to name an economical, front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder compact car, chances are the average person would come up with an import, probably from Japan. However, the competent Chevrolet Cobalt was an example of America's ability to build a decent compact automobile as well.

True, the Chevy Cobalt didn't really upset the pecking order in the compact car world; the imports, by and large, still offered better driving dynamics and interior build quality. However, the Cobalt did offer some variety. It was available as a coupe or sedan and in a variety of trim levels. Chevy also offered a specialized SS model that was, in later years, quite impressive from a performance standpoint.

Although the Cobalt wouldn't be our first choice for a used small car, it offers respectable performance and an affordable price. As such, it may merit consideration from bargain hunters, but likely won't be on the radar for more discerning small car shoppers.

Used Chevrolet Cobalt Models
There was just one generation of the Cobalt, which ran from 2005-10. It was succeeded by the Chevrolet Cruze for 2011.

The Cobalt itself replaced the long-running Chevy Cavalier, which was both smaller and of much poorer quality. The Cobalt was available as a coupe or sedan. Trim levels (depending on body style) consisted of base, LS, well-equipped LT, luxury-themed LTZ, Sport and high-performance SS.

The base and mid-trim models have mostly stood pat through the years. Apart from the SS and short-lived Sport trims, all Cobalts were powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder that initially made 145 horsepower (increased to 155 hp for '09). Transmission choices consisted of a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Even with the base engine, the Chevy Cobalt provided decent acceleration along with excellent fuel economy.

Lower and midlevel trims were typically equipped with air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control and a stereo with CD player. Upper trims may have leather upholstery, an upgraded Pioneer stereo, a USB port, a sunroof and remote start. Rear disc brakes and ABS were optional except on the highest trim levels. Side curtain airbags were optional.

The most significant changes for non-SS Cobalts were the addition of standard side curtain airbags for '08, the debut of the bare-bones XFE (extra fuel economy) model that same year, and the aforementioned boost in power for the base engine.

The SS was available initially only as a coupe with a 2.0-liter supercharged four that made 205 hp, matched to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. A sport-tuned suspension, bigger wheels and sport seats were other SS perks. For 2006 the SS line was expanded to include a coupe and sedan powered by a 2.4-liter, 171-hp version of the base 2.2-liter engine. The supercharged coupe was still available, and was called the SS Supercharged to avoid confusion with the lesser SS trims.

For '08, the lower SS versions were dropped, though their 171-hp engine saw duty in the new, one-year-only Cobalt Sport. That year, the SS Supercharged was replaced by a turbocharged SS (just called the SS) making 260 hp. The following year, an SS sedan joined the lineup. These turbocharged SS models were the most desirable of the SS run.

Small Chevrolet cars have never been known for the quality of their interiors, and the Cobalt didn't do much to change this. In editorial reviews, the car received negative commentary for its hard plastics, inconsistent build quality and limited storage. On the positive side, the Cobalt's interior was nicely insulated from road and engine noise, and the front seats were very comfortable. The SS was the bright spot of the line, boasting eye-popping acceleration and truly impressive handling.

User Reviews:

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  First car with no major flaws - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By KHarris - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this car now for almost a year and I LOVE it! It beats the Hondas I drove by far. Ive had no major issues besides normal wear and tear. I am hoping that this keeps up as I am going to have this car for quite a while!

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  2009 Cobalt - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By RickD - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Have 27,000 on mine and have had no problems. The car has great acceleration and very quiet and smooth ride.Gas mileage averages right around 28.5 to 29.0 MPG. Seem like a good little car with lots of quality built in. It definitely compares to the Corolla and Civic. Ive owned both.

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  Not too sastified - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By dstevens1204 - October 31 - 2:00 am

  i own a 2006 chevy cobalt lt coupe for 2 years now. pretty much, the main problem is that the cd player never want to work, the engine light keep coming off and on.

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  Very Nice Car! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By JD - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this car today so I havent had much time in it but after reading some of these reviews I will have to disagree. I think its a great car! The radio sounds great, ample trunk room, quiet ride, great instrument panel, AC/heat works great, very comfortable, plenty of inside room (we had 4 big adults and a kid in a booster seat comfortably). Overall so far it seems like a very good car. Like I said though Ive only had it a day but Im really liking it. The gas mileage is a big seller as well! I have a feeling this has been a very good purchase!

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  Power Steering motor recall - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Carol - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I noticed steering issues with my 2007 LS Cobalt. The dealership replaced it at no cost to me since there was a recall. It has made a huge difference in the feeling of control when Im driving. I dont drive much so I wasnt sure if I was just imagining this lack of control or not but I feel a lot safer now.

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  Cheap parts but reliable ride - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Barbara57 - October 27 - 2:00 am

  LT 2 sport coupe review: sexy car+reliable under the hood+exterior panels were loose+interior steering wheel neck was broken+new leather seats wouldnt move forward+steering ratio limited>tire too big for wheel space, difficulty making U turns or parking+gas mileage not so good for small car

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  I cant wait get a new car - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By tiredofthispos - October 23 - 2:00 am

  My parents got the cobalt for me 3 yrs ago as my 1st car. I wanted a jetta. I have had numerous problems. After 6 mo:shift nob got really loose, automatic Windows randomly go out. I have taken the car to the dealer 3x and it still does this. After 1 yr:fuel pump died, the int. Handle bubbled up. After 2 yrs:sun visor mirror cover and a defroster vent broke off. All but 1 speaker has gone out, a seat belt that is rarely used broke, turning signal stopped making clicking noise. I have taken my car to the dealer numerous times. The nob and handle were fixed. The warranty would not fix:speakers, vents, visor. Had to pay $130 just to see if it would cover the seat belt it didnt. Windows still dont work.

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  One year after review! Problems a plenty - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By vahdyx - October 22 - 2:00 am

  Id like to educate some with the flaws. The problems Im experiencing after a year of owning this car has been a pain. Cylinder 4 misfire after 1000 miles, MAP Sensors fail especially after getting the optional "GM Stage 1 kit", Intermediate steering shaft rattles, condensation in headlight, rear brake pads scoring rotor, plastic charge pipe cracking due to extreme weather, thud when shifting into gear, etc. I have taken this car to get warranty work more than any other car Ive owned. Its getting old. I dont recommend the SS unless you know your way around a car. After my warranty expires, I anticipate selling, but unfortunately, this car has poor resale value. Maybe Ill start tuning it

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  Decent car for the price - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By abgtbikes - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I drive this car everyday I used to put about 150 miles on it a day but the facts, brakes got pretty crape fast I bought new ones and the just went through them so fast, front end makes a lot of road noise, struts rattle a lot just had new ones put it and they still rattle, when you brake the steering wheel shakes as well as the car sometimes (might be the brakes who knows) insides cheap plastic has decent stereo in it. Not the fastest car but does pick up pretty quick its a fun little toy car that will start up for you everyday and give you the gas mileage you want. Im not disappointed with this car its pretty good and worth the price

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  My best investment in a car - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By ofrae - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I think U.S cars have been underrated. Sometimes i get 76 mpg inst. Dont waste money on phony hybrids. Cobalt is the best kept secret in cars. Its very roomy inside, i cant believe its a compact car and plenty of leg room. Its worth every single penny.