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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  Gas Mileage - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Don Stroud - September 3 - 5:30 am

  Getting 14 to 22 miles to the gallon of gas. Have taken vehicle back to dealer and they say they cannot do any thing about the problem because there are no codes showing. GM will not even talk about the gas mileage.

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  Big problems - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By dakoda - August 29 - 2:36 am

  My cobalt was purchased in March 05 for $18,500. The car has been in the shop 3 times now because it will not start. Ive had to have it towed. They have replaced 2 computers so far, but they really have no clue whats wrong. This car is a lemon. Do not buy one until the next model year. By then, Chevy will fix the problem, or be chapter 11.

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  Our Cobalt - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By mlbollaert - August 27 - 12:50 pm

  Engine has plenty of power for a 2.2. So far the mileage holds true 24 city, 32 hwy. Steering is effortless but tight enough to feel the road. Handling is tight through the corners and the Pirellis hold the road even in the N.W. rain. Interior is excellent with all the comforts of the 21st century! Overall I give the car and the experiance an "A".

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  Mid life crisis car. Gotta love it - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By mary - August 17 - 8:26 am

  Out of all the cars ive ever owned, this one takes the cake, with frosting. Now that the nest is empty, I no longer needed a four door car, so I purchased the 2 door coupe. The Rally Yellow adds zest to the style of the car and I feel like a new me zipping around town. This was the best birthday gift Ive ever gotten myself

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  MPG not what its billed to be - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Mike - August 10 - 12:30 pm

  I loved the style and shape. The car was purchased for my daughter who is 16 and will need a car through college. I preferred a Civic (have one), but couldnt afford another right now. Everything about the car pleases me so far except the mileage. I am averaging 18-20 in town and only got 29 on the highway. I hope the mileage improves. If not, I would not have bought it for that reason alone.

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  Junk - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Cathy McCort - August 9 - 7:21 am

  Watch out! You get a warranty and they refuse to cover the warranty. This car has a suspension problem that they will not acknowledge. In 6 mo we had to put on new tires and 1 year later we are on our 2 nd set of tires. The passenger side doors have slipped they hit each other. If the back door is open you cant open the front door. They claim we are responsible for this problem because of the mileage. we have been fighting with the car dealership and GMAC. We do not recommend this vehicle to any one. We do let people know in public when they inquire about the vehicle not to get one. I thought it would be a great family and economy car.

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  OK for Now - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Lynley - July 27 - 12:28 pm

  I like my car, dont get me wrong. It gets great gas mileage, it was affordable, and its nice to look at. But I cant wait till I can afford more horsepower and luxury seating.

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  Lemon - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By unhappy - July 27 - 2:10 am

  My vehicle has given me nothing but problems. My key continued to get stuck in the ignition and I had to take my car to get fixed 6 or 7 times until it was right. When I bought the car my bumper was not put on correctly. I have also had 4 different interior problems. The paint on the stereo came off, the fake chrome on the door handles was coming apart, the paint on the door pocket that you pull to close the door was chipping, and the carpet on the door was cut too short. I think the car is poorly made.

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  Frustrated - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By bthann - July 26 - 8:09 pm

  I have had my car for 11 months and it has been in the shop 13 times. It has had problems with the alignment, car pulls to the left, to the radio not working, needing to be replaced. Cruise control wont always engage, and the lock on the back passenger side broke.

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  My Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By shawn smith - July 22 - 10:55 pm

  I purchased my 2005 Chevy Cobalt in Oct. 2005. It is a wonderful car. It has great gas mileage. I would recommend it to anyone.