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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  Cobalt is level 2 - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By tommyntonya - January 18 - 4:23 am

  I purchased this vehicle in Oct. of 06. Since then Ive noticed a very annoying medium tone whistling coming from the underside of the vehicle. Other than that I generally get 32 mpg. overall city/hwy. The interior is laid out well while the exterior has a very appealing Japanese styling. I am a little disappointed at the aftermarket options for this specific model, although there is a turbo kit that is said to add some serious power, well above the output of the ss/sc. Overall I would say this car has one of the best price to value ratios on the market.

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  Best 4 cyclinder out there. - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Ron - January 17 - 9:10 pm

  I have over 18,000 miles so far and the car has been great. I am averageing 32.5 mpg which is higher than I expected when I purchased it. The car is quite for its price range and handles like a dream.

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  They arent kidding. - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By EtyrnuSS - January 10 - 11:33 pm

  This is possibly one of the best sport compacts on the road. They are quick, agile, and fun to drive. And for those of you who are into aftermarket tuning, there are multitudes of parts either out or coming out soon.

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  Wow - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Sean Jonas - January 4 - 5:23 pm

  I have driven literally hundreds of cars, and this Cobalt has the quietest interior of all. Combine that with the MUST HAVE pioneer stereo system, the electronic assist steering and the constant looks with the Blue Granite paint, what you get is the best car in the price range period. Fantastic cornering, is one feature North American cars have been lacking but not in the Cobalt. Fun Fun Fun

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  Great Car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jkm777 - January 2 - 4:46 pm

  Just bought my Cobalt LS on Aug. 30th and so far Im really inpressed with this cars build quality. Ive owed 3 Hondas in the past and this Chevy really says something about GMs desire to compete with the foreign cars. Great styling, good gas mileage, great acceleration. Fit and finish is second to none. Very quiet & smooth ride.

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  Satisfied so far - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jonnyk981 - December 31 - 1:03 pm

  So far owning my 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt LS has been nothing but a walk in the park. I have been a previous GM owner for many years now and this is by far the most impressive GM model that I have ever owned. I previously owned a 2000 Cavalier Z24 and my Cobalt puts it to shame! My Cobalt is loaded with fun features that werent even offered on most of the other cars that I was looking at in the same price range. The car is fun to drive, great on gas, and easy on the wallet too. The five speed manual transmission gives the car a sportier feel and I am very impressed with the perfomance of this cars four cylinder engine.

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  2008 Chevy Cobalt - Great Value - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Andy - December 8 - 2:50 am

  I chose the 2008 Cobalt LT based on its standard features, fuel economy, and low price. The Cobalt has nice sleek lines and a very simple aesthetic appeal. Its super peppy for a 2.2 liter and has an awesome turning radius. Highway noise is minimal and has a very smooth ride. Im getting 34 MPG highway and about 26 MPG city.

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  One last chance - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Mercury - December 6 - 4:33 pm

  One last chance for GM, mainly because of GM card credits. Initial impression is favorable. The Cobalt LS is quiet, responsive, basic. I like the higher seating position and the information display on the dash (outside temp-mileage-economy-coolant temp-trip odometers). Seats are firm, comfortable for a short ride. Fuel economy is good. Dependability is the question mark. So far-so good.

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  Cobalt - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By al - November 25 - 5:03 am

  Have had the Cobalt for 4 months now, and I am very happy with it. At first there were a few kinks to work out. The engine light kept coming on, but there was nothing wrong with the car. This car is very quiet, and rides great for a compact. You can also feel the quality that went into this car. I think GM has a winner.

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  LS 4Dr Auto - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By CDN Ren - November 22 - 3:10 pm

  I have the 4dr LS model w/ sport appearance package. After test driving this and the Mazda 3, I found that this car was a tad quieter on the highway. Im averaging 7.9l/100km (even with A/C usage) Its spacious for my needs, and the trunk is absolutely huge (about on par with the 300 from Chrysler). Its small and nimble enough to work well in the city and subburban areas, and it fits in most tight parking spaces. It did take some time to get used to the drivers seat as it felt a bit stiff for a number of weeks, but now Ive found my "sweet spot". The sun visors to me seem a little smaller than my Z24 and I can not block as much sun as I used to. All said though its a fantastic car, get one!