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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  great car - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By hud - June 30 - 9:50 am

  Had it for a year now and a great car with lots of power. 33 EPA and lots of fun to drive. Fairly loaded for $14000

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  GM Performance Division - Great Job! - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By dwbartlett - June 30 - 1:07 am

  The SS has received good if not excellent reviews. I had to drive it myself. After comparing the SS to others in its class, its American built perfomance won it for me. Priced under 25,000 the SS is great bang for the buck. Ive only driven mine for a few hundred miles and it has delivered all I have expected. Acceleration, handling and braking have all come easily from the well bolstered bucket seats. Each element of the vehicle has been well thought out from ergonomics to perfomance, nothing seems out of place or missing. From bumper to bumper this vehicle has delivered.

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  Good concept, poor execution - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Brian - June 25 - 11:36 pm

  Poor build quailty! Ive had nothing but problems with this car. I bought this over the SRT-4 and regret it. Its been in the shop once a month since I got it.

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  New Cobalt Owner - Love it - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Judyteel - June 25 - 4:14 pm

  I just got the car and love driving it. The best smooth drive (Civic & Vesra horrible to me) and nice handling. My only negative is you cannot shoot into traffic with it. Nice standard and satellite radio with MP3 hook up. Bought for my teenager but I enjoy driving it. Great price for the money. I could not beat it. Not sure of the gas mileage yet.. Keep posted.

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  Major Issue - Stay Away From The Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Rob P. - June 25 - 11:05 am

  Unfortunately, I recently found out that the Chevy Cobalt utilizes an electric power steering system as opposed to a hydraulic system found on all other cars. The electric steering system has a high failure rate and the average cost for repair is $2k. I am one of those unfortunate owners and will have to sell my car because of this issue. No recall notices by GM and I dont anticipate one. After avoiding American cars for 20 years, I made the mistake of re-entering the GM/Chevy market and Im sorry I did so. Because of this, I plan on not ever purchasing another GM vehicle. Very sad.

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  So Disappointed - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By So So disappointed - June 24 - 3:57 pm

  Purchased this vehicle used, had looked up car fax info and researched mileage. Guess what Im only getting 19 mpg in the city, its a good thing I only work 5 miles away. The car has a nice build and I cant find anything else I dont like about the car. Im just disappointed in its performance. Ive had other used vehicles with a V8 that gave me 22 mpg in the city. Ive taken it back to be serviced and Im told theres nothing wrong it must be my driving habits. Ive only put about 500 miles on this vehicle.

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  Safety First - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Donnie - June 24 - 12:34 pm

  This car was designed with safety as its priority! I just got my Cobalt, and already I have the controls memorized! By looking at the great gas mileage, and the simple but stunning interior, you can tell this car was made by a practical on-the-go person. Dont let the small size fool you! This car has the most cabin room Ive seen in a sedan! Not to mention the vast trunk room! Great, great car! you get every dime out of it!

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  Great Car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Rick - June 24 - 12:16 am

  I love this car, quick pick up, great handling, and I like the look of it, not to mention the gas mileage. A huge step up from my 03 Civic.

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  Solid Transport - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Fred - June 23 - 5:42 pm

  Runs great, got the basic model but comes well equiped without costly options. Sure it may not be as good as a Honda or Toyota, but costs thousands less. Doesnt get as good gas economy as imports but thats due to more powerful engine. Just drive easy and you will get good economy. After 2 yrs bought another one for another family member.

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  Best deal on the planet. Great Car. - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Nate - June 23 - 9:02 am

  I was looking for a car under 15k, and I knew I was going to be giving up a lot to get it. This would be my daily commuter. After pricing a Civic, 3, Corrolla, and Focus I knew I was in trouble. Wasnt really looking at GM until I saw a Cobalt. I have seen them before but never really paid attention. Took it for a drive and was overly impressed. Got an LT and with options it was 4k less than a Civic with the same options. I love this car more and more, and with the rebates you cant beat the value. Very well built car. I would seriously consider this in lieu of the forementioned cars I was considering unless you are hung up on a name like Honda.