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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  Fun ecomomy - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Shawn - July 1 - 10:56 am

  At the time I bought this car, I had an 87 mile one way comute to work. I was averaging 34-35 MPG. I have since relocated, and on my drive to my new location, I had averaged 41 MPG at one point of the drive I have recently noticed a dip in my fuel economy, but also received a recall notice for fuel injectors...hopefully getting them replaced will restore my original MPG. This car is fun to drive, has a great sporty look, and is pretty comfortable for 2 adults...rear seating is a little cramped. There is a lot of trunk space, but limited interior storage...an overhead compartment might be an option.

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  Fun new car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Brenda - June 17 - 12:10 pm

  I have owned my Cobalt for over a month and it has been exceptional in fuel economy, its fun to drive and handles well. The engine impressed me with its quickness. It doesnt have a lot of road noise and the ride is nice for a small car. Its a great step up from the Cavalier, that basically a disposable car. The frame and body on this car is built more solidly, and the styling is nice, especially the rear end style. Nice that it has 15 inch wheels on a small car. Just a real fun and nice car to drive.

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  From an F150 to this - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By waduncan - June 11 - 10:50 am

  I am 63" and love this car. It appears small from the outside, however the leg room is amazing. The seats are comfortable, though a little too stiff if you are making trips of 60+ miles. The gas mileage is great, 28 MPG so far. The five speed gives you a lot of control and the engine builds power all the way to the red line of 6500. GM offers performance exhaust and a stage 2 kit that will put this engine at 250+ hp. Add an after market intake and you are looking at 260+ hp in a very light car. Awesome handling, I live near the "dragon" in Tennessee and I can tear through it much quicker than I could in my old Camaro (though in fairness the Camaro did not have low profile tires).

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  Cute Car, Decent Price - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Tiffany - June 4 - 3:13 am

  I had an 01Ranger Edge.. it consumed SO much gas, and with these prices it was killing me. I looked into the Colbalt and after a long decision made good, I decided to get the car. It drives very smooth and its an awesome car to take out on the interstate for a long drive. The amount gas that it consumes is great as well. The pick-up speed is decent considering it has a small engine. If youre wanting a nice compact car for a decent price, try out the Colbalt!

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  Look at better options - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By JoHo - April 13 - 4:00 pm

  If youre looking for a mechanically dependable car, youve found it. But the interior quality is what could be found in a $9000 car. Its made from cheap plastic and the paint that covers it likes to chip easily. As said in earlier reviews, the housing for the sun roof likes to fall out, a lot. It honestly wont stay put. I love the feel of the car when i drive it, but the horrible quality of the interior makes me wish i could drive it without being in it.

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  A plum of a car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By SBS - March 26 - 6:26 pm

  After 6 months of driving my Cobalt, I still love it. I was somewhat disappointed in the gas mileage but since I drive only 5-10 miles a day it doesnt show the possibilities plus we have not taken it on any long drives. However we have gotten 24-25 mpg on a 60-80 mile trip. So time will tell with the gasoline usage! And for those long or short trips the trunk is HUGE and amazing how many bags of groceries I can get in there!

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  Great Car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By David S. - March 5 - 8:03 am

  Both my wife and I just got Cobalts (one each). She went from a Cavalier I came from a Jeep (I miss my Jeep). I do have to say that this is one of the smoothest drives I have ever had. The interior is excellent and the mileage is nuts!!!

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  Good look, horrible car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By xsnrg - February 15 - 6:56 am

  I have to say that I love the look of this car and have received numerous compliments on it. Unfortunately the cost and hassle of all the problems outweigh the look. Horrible car in terms of service standards. Have had nothing but continual problems, so much so that I will never buy GM again.

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  2.4 SS Excellent - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By SSport - February 12 - 9:16 pm

  I would recommend this car to anyone. Its a little car with a big heart. Minor problems here and there, but to be expected in a brand new car! I love it and plan to love it for many years to come!

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  Fun stuff! - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Seoulgirl7 - February 11 - 8:03 am

  It seems like time stops when im in my Cobalt SS/SC. It handles great, and I love the interior, all the options, and what the factory offers for me for aftermarket. Really a lot of car for the price! Just writing this makes me want to go out to the back roads again:)