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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  1 year old and 18000 miles - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Bill - January 3 - 11:33 pm

  I just hit 18000 miles and have yet to return to the dealer for anything other than oil changes. I drive from White Plains to NYC daily, approx 120 miles. This car is solid as a rock. I traded in an Elantra for this and the difference is night and day. The Cobalt feeling like a much more expensive car. I get compliments all the time on how sporty she looks. Its comfortable, and feels much bigger than it is. No leaks, squeaks and any other annoying problems.If I had to complain about anything it would be the gas milage. For its size the engine seems thirsty. I average apprx 24 hwy and 17 city mpg.

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  Blew away all Expectations - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Lenny - December 20 - 10:46 pm

  Ive been driving for over 35 years and have owned more new cars than I care to count. I bought the Cobalt after shopping around for a month or so. It was way ahead of anything in its price range. I have over 5,000 miles on it and have yet had to return to the dealer for anything but an oil change. Its solid with one of the best build qualities Ive seen. I love this car. I bought the LT-2 in Ultra Silver and black leather interior. Everyone compliments me on how sporty she looks. It has every otption but power seats and all for under 19000 out the door. The electronic steering is a dream. The stereo blows away anything Ive heard. I highly recommend this car.

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  Nice try - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jack interstein - December 6 - 9:03 am

  Im generally pleased with this new effort from Chevy. Definitely like the looks and feel. Surpised and disappointed by poor city driving mileage. Has plenty of pep and good mileage on the open road. This car needlessly weighs about 200 to 300 lbs more than its Hyundai, Corolla and Civic competitors so additional HP is wasted in my opinion. Braking required surprising effort. Interior is well laid out but somewhat plastic looking. Despite above comments, was actually overall quite pleased!

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  Chevy Cobalt - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Carol Smith - November 22 - 9:03 am

  This car is wonderful to drive, I feel safe and confident when driving. I would highly recommend this car, plus it is not too bad on gas. With gas prices these days, its nice to save a little at the pumps.

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  I did my homework - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Tim Cassidy - November 21 - 3:00 pm

  I checked out the Civic and Corolla and was not impressed. They cost more and look boring. The interior of the Cobalt looks just as good and has just as much plastic as the Honda and Toyota. The interior fit and finish, quality of materials line the reviewers love to use, tells me the Cobalt is the real deal since I believe most reviewers are bias in favor of the Japanese models. If that is all they can say, you know the Coblat is a serious contender. My other car is a Nissan Altima so you know that I am someone who really checks things out first and just doesnt buy American. I checked out Civic and Corolla and the Cobalt won, handily.

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  Great Car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jtc3usa - November 8 - 6:26 am

  Good acceleration,smooth ride and great fuel mileage. A sporty compact that turns heads. I really like the standard features of info center,cd player and air condtioning. Im really impressed with everything for the price.

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  Dont Complain Until You Drive It - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Nathan7771 - November 2 - 9:03 pm

  This is an amazing vehicle. The 1st American car Ive owned in years. I needed something that would provide good mileage in these outrageous gas-priced times, but didnt expect an inexpensive car to provide the class, comfort and quality that the Cobalt does! Exceptionally well designed and engineered. Fit, finish and workmanship rival the cars from Japan and Germany that Ive owned. The powertrain is an absolute joy. The Ecotec 4 mated to the 5 speed manual work perfectly together providing spunk and great economy. Then theres the 7 speaker Pioneer sound system. Smooth, very quiet, exceptional build quality, its all here!

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  My new Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Melinda - October 24 - 2:53 am

  I bought a 2005 Cobalt in March 2005. Unfortunately, I was hit almost head on by someone who did not stop at a stop sign. Luckily, however, i found out exactly how safe the car was and I am about to receive my new Cobalt. I am even more excited about getting this. It truly was a safe and smart investment. Kudos to Chevrolet for making such a wonderful car. I love the interior and exterior also. I have no complaints about the car or the dealership that sold it to me. I am forever a devoted Chevrolet bowtie!

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  Awesome Car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jynxme6 - October 23 - 9:20 pm

  This car is such a smooth ride. I am glad I decided to buy this car. The price is also a bargain. I got a great family car at a great cost.

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  2005 Colbalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By lynette - October 8 - 8:50 pm

  The clutch failed on this vehicle at 2,850 miles. Found that cruise control did not work after picking up from clutch repair and the transmission seemed to "clunk" into place after each gear change after repair. Returned to dealership and after "bleeding the lines" the car will shift gears although not smoothly. The plastic pieces on the interior of the car are warping and the "door" to the trunk button has been replaced twice. After the cruise control was replaced the plastic panel in the passenger leg area "popped off" and will need to be replaced. Fun to drive when running, but I cannot afford to be at dealership every week for repairs.