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:

• 

  Great second car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By John - March 2 - 12:00 am

  I traded in my gas guzzler after gas topped $3 a gallon. I needed a car that averaged atleast mid 20s to a gallon. After some serching and not wanting a 4 door the cobalt was my choice. I got the LT version for 18,000 including taxes. So far the car has performed well, but did have a paint peeling issue on the front bumper, which they repaired. There is nothing to jump up and down for on this car, its transportation. Its basic wheels.

• 

  First Impression - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jay - February 27 - 10:33 am

  This vehicle is a very pleasant surprise. Im averaging 36 mpg overall. The ride is good, the car handles well, and it appears to be put together well.

• 

  Chevrolet Makes Driving Fun Again - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Ray Knapp - February 19 - 11:20 am

  I have owned many sports cars in my life and recently A Landcruiser. This car is fun to drive, looks great, excellent gas mileage and far a away the best dollar value in the market today. Mine has all the bells and whistles which add to its overall appeal. In looking for an economical vehicle that would satisfy my sports car blood and be reasonably priced, the Cobalt is a 10.

• 

  Awesome car! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Darkonyx - February 8 - 8:20 am

  I have had this car for a while now, and have driven it quite a bit. I would commute 200 miles a day in it and no problems at all. Good gas mileage for what the car offers and plenty of pep in its step. The shift broke about 12k miles into it, dealer fixed under warranty no problem. Fun to drive and plenty of room. Back seat int he coupe is a little small for an adult but plenty for children. I even had a car back into at about 15mph and all it did was scratch my paint on the front bumper! I love this car, and you cant beat the quality for the price!

• 

  Strong Recomendation - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Daniel - January 29 - 9:46 am

  I really enjoy this car. This is my first brand new car purchase and bought it without any research, and to be honest, I almost didnt test drive it. I was very attracted to its design and at the moment, that is all that matter. I was wrong though, there is much more to it. It handles well, has lots of pep, and is extremely quiet. I am a little disapointed in the MPG, but my last car got over 400 mile to the tank so anything is an adjustment. Nonetheless, this is a phenomenal buy and I have never been more satisfied.

• 

  My 2007 Cobalt SS/SC - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Henry_the_Red - January 13 - 12:16 pm

  Well first things first, I love my Cobalt SS. The power is there when you need it, design and interior layout fit the car nicely. Only downfall I dislike about this car is the spoiler, which is going to be removed when I have some extra cash. Also I had a porous head which had to be replaced by the dealership, but other than that the car runs and performs great. Good buy in my opinion and not too bad for gas mileage, currently getting 29.4 mpg when I dont get on the gas.

• 

  I love my new 06 Colbalt - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Caryn B. - January 5 - 6:16 am

  It is totally fun to drive. The sound system is awesome. I have XM radio free for 3 months, so Im lovin that! It is a very smooth, quiet riding vehicle. I like the way it handles. Great on take-off, like getting on the freeway.

• 

  So Far Love It! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Vin - January 2 - 10:36 am

  I owned many new cars over my life. The Cobalt had one of the best build qualities of any of them. The Cobalt is a very solid well built car, GM has there act together on this one. Ive owned it for 2 months now and have yet to find anything wrong. The cars ride is solid, the interior is very comfortable and the fuel economy is averaging 24 city 31 hwy. Im not complaining since my last car was averaging 13. The MP-3 stereo with the pioneer speaker system has a sound that has to be heard. I could drive this car for hours. Its fun to drive and very sporty to look at. The trunk is enormous. I would suggest the Cobalt to anyone looking for a solid car.

• 

  Adequate for the cost - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By scottwalker69 - December 19 - 7:16 pm

  I have just driven this car over 59,000 miles since my purchase about 2 1/2 years ago. I average around 38 MPG on the highway and around 30-32mpg average on each tank I have not had to take the car into the shop at all since I bought it except for routine oil changes. There is a minor squeak when the heater is turned on and some rattles in the dash, but overall, I have been satisfied with my purchase. The material is "cheap" but does the job. I drive around 100 miles per day for my commute and I have been content with the car. It has been reliable. The only reason I would not buy this car ever again is because there are some foreign cars that are more reliable.

• 

  Chevy Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Donika - December 19 - 7:10 am

  I thoroughly enjoy driving my Cobalt. It handles very well even around curves and corners. Roomy inside with storage places. Bucket seats that adjust are real nice too.