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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  Power Steering Problems - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Beware! - March 16 - 10:56 pm

  I have had several problems with it. Some arent life threatening (like the power windows not working and the brake light flashing), but Ive had a MAF Sensor short which caused the car to stop running while I was doing 60-65 MPH and the steering locked up. Fortunately, the car started back up. Ive recently dealt with another steering issue. I was driving down an uneven/bumpy road and a "power steering" message came up on the information panel and the speedometer went out. The steering became very mushy and it was difficult to control the car. Ive also dealt with the car not starting and the cab filling with gas fumes. There has been severe hesitation and loss of power when the A/C is on.

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  2007 Cobalt LT3 - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Driven - March 6 - 4:20 am

  After looking at Honda, and Mazda etc., when shopping for my next ride, none had the options/price I was looking for without buying aftermarket items. On long drives I do not suffer from fatigue I felt in previous cars or feel in other models that I get from the rental companies. My job requires extensive travel and I find myself comparing every rental I receive to my Cobalt! The Cobalt handles very well. I get a good sense of the road when behind the wheel. Simply put my Cobalt is not going anywhere unless I am driving.

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  Chevrolet Fun with Satellite Radio - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Nancy Harrington - March 6 - 2:13 am

  Its full of pep. I like its (red) look. Subwoofer in trunk. I especially think it was clever of someone to design a foot rest near the driver door (to the left of brake pedal).

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  Very pleased - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By archcommus - February 27 - 7:03 pm

  Bought an 07 LS coupe in May, this is my first new car and also my first GM car. Have to say Im very pleased so far. Love the exterior looks, love the dash and interior layout, plenty of space for me and comfortable seats, excellent gas mileage (currently getting about 29.7 city), fun to drive, smooth ride, great features (automatic headlights, auxiliary audio jack, MP3 player), affordable, all in all a great car to own and drive.

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  Sedan SS, what a bargain - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By ben - February 27 - 7:53 am

  The 2.4SS is such a great bargain. I mean come on, a 4cyl sedan nearly breaking into the 6 second 0-60 mark and running down the 1/4 mile in low 15s for only $17 grand? You cant beat it, with the nicely laid out interior and great sound system, and the best handling in its class. I love it!

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  Room to Improve - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Gail - February 26 - 1:20 pm

  Agree, need to pull interior door handles closer so as not a far reach. My biggest trouble is the seat, dash and steering. With long legs you move the seat back, but since the steering wheel doesnt scope, youre reaching. The steering wheel for tall people cuts out part of the speedometer located on the left and no matter how I adjust the seat and steering, its just not comfortable. I wish it had more head room also and a little more pickup like my previous small car. Im really just not happy at all with it and I really regret buying it. The trunk could use a larger opening.

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  Dont buy this car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By akztraylor - February 22 - 8:05 pm

  I have had this car for less than 2 years and it has been in the shop 7 times now. I am very disapointed in this car. I thought this would be a better car to own, now I cant wait to get rid of it!

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  What a car! - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By bizman - February 19 - 2:13 pm

  I have an early production model 2005 LS 4 door with all the options except a sunroof. It has the sport package with an auto tranny. I have been getting 38 mpg hwy and avg 31.4 mpg city/hwy. I love this car! So far with almost 30,000 miles and 2 deer hits, Ive had no complaints and no problems. Just regular oil changes.

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  Improved Quality - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Primo - February 8 - 9:10 pm

  The Cobalt SS 2.0 is fun to drive and a big step forward for Chevrolet in its competition against the imports of the same class. The Cobalt SS 2.0 handles nice, stops well rain or shine, and accelerates with the power of a V6.

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  Sweet car!! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By TV - January 21 - 7:00 am

  Ive owned a Toyota and Nissan that had problems from the start and this Cobalt has been perfect with on problems. Its fun to drive with good mileage and quiet interior. GM has made great car. Thank goodness an American company can build a world class car!