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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  Way cool car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By fire61765 - October 6 - 11:40 am

  This is the best sporty car I have owned. I would not want to get any other car. The power is great. The fuel mileage is great. Mine is at 32 miles per gal. Its fun to drive.

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  My Cobalt SS - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By mike - September 26 - 11:13 pm

  I have had an amazing experience with this car. Its fast, fun to drive, and the stylish look and feel is amazing. I dont understand why more people have not purchased this vehicle. When it comes to pure driving satisfaction, This car really delivers.

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  Awesome car...I love It! - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By HLMcD - September 8 - 8:06 pm

  I bought this car because my son thought it was "sick"...being a good thing....I needed a fuel economy car and havent had a "car" for many, many years to drive on a daily basis...except for my Corvette. This is a really comfortable, sporty, fun car to drive and Im very happy I bought it! The stereo with Pioneer speakers kicks and its got quite a lot of spirit for a 4 cylinder car. I love it, love it, love it!

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  Great Car for the Money - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Christian - August 19 - 11:43 pm

  The performance of the car is great. Handling is also great for an economy car, specially compared to the previous year and competitors. This car will be excellent for autocross.

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  2007 Chevy Coupe LT2 - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By lillipad86 - August 8 - 2:13 am

  Love it! Its like a relationship, it takes work. Theres somethings to get used to but for the price, its an unbelievably great buy! Get a sunroof if you can, its a great feature that I find myself using everyday! (weather permitting)

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  Nice car, good on gas and fun to drive. - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Arthur - July 20 - 7:20 pm

  Had my Cobalt for a few months now, and Im really happy with it. My last car was a Honda, and Ive noticed that the Cobalt just feels more solid -- right down to the "thunk" the doors make when they close. Ive crossed 32mpg on the highway, and the car rides like a much bigger vehicle. Cant beat this car at the price. I think Chevy came up with a winner this time.

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  Chevy hits homerun - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Larry T - July 13 - 2:56 pm

  We bought this as a second car to give our daughter for graduation, we drive it every day. It gets great gas mileage and is fun to drive too.

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  Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By mmgee - July 9 - 7:53 am

  I love driving this car! I deal with a lot of traffic and it is very responsive weaving in & out of traffic. It also has good get up & go when you need it. The only problem is that my air conditioner went out with 950 miles. Everything else is awesome!!

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  Cute - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Denise - June 30 - 5:00 pm

  My driving experience with the Chevy Cobalt is that it does drive smooth and it has some speed. The brakes are good. All it takes is a tap on the brakes. The heating system is good. I burn less heat and oil. The windows fog up easily.

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  2008 Cobalt LT - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Mike Nug - June 21 - 1:30 am

  I bought this over the Corrola and Civic. My last tank of gas averaged 34.2mpg. The dash layout at great and the storage bins are layed out well. This is not a speed demon but can handle highway merges fine.