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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  junk - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By unknown - May 20 - 10:43 am

  dont buy!!! this car is junk my brakes never stop squeaking dealers cant explain. no room in car for anything seats stain with rain water windows dont roll down all the time airbag light on for no reason...drivers side door handle fell off...my dome light hangs down now cant get it back in!!! total garbage...my 2004 malibu rocked compared to this car

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  100K and still going! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Russ - May 18 - 5:07 pm

  My Cobalt 4dr SS has 101,000 miles, and still going strong! What a surprise. I really wanted a Toyota, but bought this one for much less. Glad I did. Ive spent less in repairs/maintenance than any car Ive ever owned. Ive owned 3 VWs, 3 Hondas, 5 GM vehicles, 2 Chryler products, and 3 Ford products. This has turned out to be the most reliable car Ive owned (in the first 100K miles). Lets see what the next 100k does.

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  Passing resemblance to Opel Astra - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By SCCHEVY - May 4 - 9:00 am

  Ive been waiting for GM to start bringing us cars that more closely resemble what they sell in Europe. The Malibu missed the Opel Vectra a little, but the Cobalt grabbed me as a dead-ringer for the last generation Opel Astra. I love the styling, and the interior is such an improvement over the antiquated Cavalier!

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  Amazing first car for teenagers! - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Shay - April 29 - 5:27 pm

  My dad purchased this car for me as my very first car. I was thrilled. We have had it for 4 years and honestly have had no problems! I have a 4cyl so although its not fast, it has NEVER broken down on me. I cannot find a flaw in it. We have put over 100k miles on it and it still looks and drives as if it was brand new. I definitely recommend this car for anyone looking to make a very good investment. My boyfriend lives an hour away and I have been driving it there and back every weekend for 2 years. It has never given me any kind of problems!

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  Cobalt XFE Is The Real Deal! - 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Ethan - April 28 - 5:09 pm

  I just purchased my new 2009 Cobalt XFE sedan. I have not seen many of the XFE packaged cars in the sedan bodystyle, so I assume that it is pretty rare. My car is the very base model LS, and the only option I purchased was floormats. It is a very comfortable driving car. It is surprisingly quiet inside (Ive been told the sedan version has more headroom and is slightly quieter if that sways your decision). The engine power is great. I have 700 miles on the car and got an average of 40.7 MPG!!! That was on a 60 mile round trip of windy country roads and getting stuck in a little traffic. The mileage amazes me!

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  Great little Chevrolet - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Yury - April 22 - 6:59 pm

  My first US car, others were imports. I bought it used with 45k on it. I am pleasantly surprised, this car runs very smoothly, acceleration is excellent, confident braking steering is easy, practical interior, only a few squeaks. Spacious trunk, LT trim offers lots of things that make you feel like you are in more expensive car. Had two visits to dealership to fix minor issues left by previous owner. He even did not bother with scheduled maintenance. Good winter tires and careful driving will take you safely through Canadian winter. All in all, Cobalt has personality that is missing in many similar Japanese cars. Nice, solid, fun car with lots of practicality in it.

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  Bad Car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Parrish Monroe - April 22 - 3:30 am

  This car is awesome; the only thing i dont like about it is the headlights they are the ugly white color. I like the blue color better. This car reminders me if a Mustang in the back, well except the tail lights

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  Absolute Success - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Phil - April 21 - 9:01 pm

  Performance: 2.2L ECOtec with the 5sp. is a very quick engine for what it is. A+ on the engine. Suspension needs work, too soft in the corners but smooth ride. The rear drums on mine constantly need adjustment. Comfort: I just drove from Ohio to Wyoming and back non-stop and had no problems with comfort. Fuel: For some reason, the higher the RPMs the worse my mileage... still get 26-7 Driveability: This car is a blast for what it is. Design:Exterior looks excellent except for the lame front bumper. Interior is well constructed and looks good but cheap materials were used. Build: Definitely built well Reliability: A couple minor things needed replaced but covered by warantee NICE CAR!

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  Good so far - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Jeff - April 15 - 9:46 am

  I was looking at all the usuals. But I could not afford a VW, the Mazda only had like a 2yr 24,000 warranty, the Toyota dealer would not give me the time of day, and the Accent was too small. So between the Focus and Cobalt the Cobalt won. Mine is stripped, no add ons. Good ride, but cheap tires. Getting 30-33 MPG. Decent interior, but cheap plastic on the door sills. Big trunk. Roomy for a compact car. 11,000 miles on it and no problems except for a flat tire. Had a bit of molded rubber on the bead, dealer fixed. It will get out of its own way, but not a hot hatch. Cant beat the price

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  07 Cobalt LS 5sp updated - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By ken - April 13 - 9:21 pm

  This is an update from my 9/13/07 post. This is a great little car. Fuel economy is 34 to 36 on my mostly highway commute at about 60 mph. Got 40 mpg on trip once. Seats are still comfortable. Shifting is not as crisp as when new. Never been back to dealer for any warranty service. Oil change is super easy with the front cartridge filter and oversize filler cap. Tires will need to be replaced before next winter.