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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  Possible savior to GM? - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Joe Gerard - January 2 - 12:43 pm

  This is certainly an upgrade over the cheaper-looking Cavalier. Gas mileage is excellent. Depending on where you get gas at, you can get close to 400 miles on a full tank, and it doesnt cost much to fill up. It has a large trunk. Its certainly a fast car, closest thing to a Honda Civic out there. Its no wonder this is one of GMs best-selling vehicles right now. Considering all of the plant closings right now, I think GM was smart in upgrading the Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant, because this vehicle could end up as the savior to the worlds largest automaker.

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  Great looking rocket! - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Brian - December 31 - 7:19 am

  Just bought my Cobalt Supercharged with 1400 miles on it. Was a demo. The car has been so much fun to drive. Getting 40 + miles per gallon going easy on the highway. The sport red color with the 18 inch chrome wheels is awesome. Other than an occasional minor rattle (might be beacuse its wintertime), this car is absolutely a must as long as youre not worried about a small backseat or using it for construction projects.I have a 2004 Avalanche that I now can use for carting my gear only. Im now saving a lot on gas and wear and tear. The bottom line: If youre looking for a fast and fun car to drive, youve got to consider this car! Feels like the old days. Power with no worry of fuel!

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  Better than I thought when I bought it - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By soupysales - December 23 - 7:54 am

  I have an LT package XFE (5M), so Ive got the electric windows and the center armrest. The car is quiet, handling is solid as a rock even at high speeds, and the hard seats are comfortable on long trips. Trunk room is spacious, but the opening is small. The 2.2 will scoot if you wind it up, which you can do with the manual transmission. This is a great car, lots of fun to drive, plenty of front seat room, and great mileage. Under the skin, the Cobalt is an Opel Astra, so if you like the personality of German cars, youll like this one. For the price that Chevy sells them for, its a bargain.

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  Cobalt - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Sarge - December 21 - 7:01 am

  I purchased the 2008 Cobalt because fuel at the time of purchase was at the all time high. So far I do like the vehicle, but it is terrible in snow and ice but most vehicles this size probably are. I have experienced premature wear on the drivers seat at 5000 miles and 6 months service.

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  Best Car Ever - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Kenny - December 20 - 7:20 pm

  I love my Cobalt. I have never driven a car that drives so smooth. It is such a fun drive and was the car that stood out from all of the rest that I drove! I love it! I would highly recommend that you consider a Cobalt for your next car!

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  Great Bang for the Buck! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By JR - December 10 - 3:40 am

  Very under-rated compared with other sport coupes for less than 21-23 K...The supercharged version has suprising (to other drivers) power & handling. Hasnt really got the accolades it deserves from the press because its a "cheap US car" - victim of stereotyping Pleasantly suprised overall

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  Cool Cobalt - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Craig - December 9 - 5:20 pm

  This car is fun, plain and simple. Its style is nice and its comfort level is up there with a car that you would pay twice as much for. If it has a downfall, it would be that they used to much plastic on the interior. They put a lot of extras on this car that you wouldn`t expect on an economy car.

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  Very happy - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Dave Wny - November 18 - 2:25 pm

  So far I love this car. Fun to drive, sharp looking and excellent fuel economy. I purchased the LT 2 door coupe with the automatic. Plenty of power for regular driving and the interstates. Passing power is more then good enough. I am getting lots of compliments on the style of the car. I got a black one with the 16" rims and spoiler and chrome package. Lots of heads turn to take a look as I am driving. Rides and handles very nicely. It looks and drives great. I am very, very happy. No problems at all after the first 2 months. For the money its an excellent car to buy. I am more then pleased.

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  So far so good... - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Mollie - November 16 - 10:03 pm

  Im quite impressed with the performance of my little Chevy Cobalt. My husband & myself are both over 6 feet tall & we have comfortable leg room. I have the LS sport, but my display gauges arent white, not sure how it happened

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  So far, exceptional value - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Jake - November 13 - 1:38 pm

  I also bought "Go"balt during the GM employee price period. Nice incentive to get what turns out to be just about everything I hoped for, even the color I wanted - yellow. Great handling. Only 1600 miles but getting 27.2 mpg last check. Work ride between 40-50 mph at 60 miles each day. Wouldve liked hatchback. Rear deck just in the way & to hold speakers. Rear spoiler can block vision. Im 6-1"+ & seat is comfortable but I must cock my knees just so on entry. Interior a little chintzy but hey, its a commuter car with go-power. The refig display is different. I have trouble reading it in the variety of color combos it offers. Currently getting dealer installed cat- back system. A kid at 58!