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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  Ticket me red - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By miller1 - May 28 - 12:36 pm

  Like we all say, fun to drive, great looks, great price. Good choice. Was pulled over once already with 800 miles on it (warning).

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  Cobalt:>) - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By CP - May 23 - 1:03 am

  I LOVE IT! It is a fantastic car. I heard it is called the "Little Vette" and it deserves the nickname. Extremely happy with my Cobalt:>)

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  Feels Great So Far - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Angel - May 18 - 10:26 am

  I just bought this car recently and I must say that so far this feels like the best investment I have ever made, overall the car looks decent, great acceleration, very smooth ride, I cant complain

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  Awesome - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By RULIN COBALT - May 16 - 11:30 pm

  This Cobalt I have is such a dependable, sporty car. Wherever I go, I cant help myself but to put the pedal to the metal with it. Its just awesome.

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  I Love My Chevy Cobalt! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By susan kreger - May 15 - 2:10 am

  This is my 3rd lease with Chevy and this car is my favorite by far! I got a 2005 Chevy Cobalt LS with a stick and the car gives 150 percent. Its fun to drive, looks very sporty and the car never disappoints me. I get lots of complements on whoever sees it and each time I get in the car to drive it (no matter where) I am excited. The car is awesome!

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  Fabulous Car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By zmurof - May 6 - 10:16 am

  I bought this car back in Nov 2005 and have driven around 45k miles since then and cannot really complain. The ride is a bit stiff on bumpy roads but is a joy to drive in mountain roads. The engine has adequate power(2.4L) for all situations. Other than regular service I havent had any reliability issues. No squeaks or rattles with regards to the interior. However, like other reviewers have mentioned the interior is still down on quality and there is definately room for improvement. Some of the plastics especially in areas of high contact(like the door handles/audio controls) are starting to wear out. The center armrest is awkwardly placed. I average around 30mpg on highway(auto)

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  A Solid Package - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Mike - May 1 - 12:03 pm

  This car is great for a commuter that likes the feel of a sports sedan. The fuel mileage is good considering the output of the engine, 171HP. The handling is crisp and the suspension absorbs very well. This is the first small Chevy that Im eager to drive, and tell my friends about. The interior is cozy, but if you want a larger vehicle you shouldnt be looking in this class to begin with. Its a sports sedan for the economical driver!

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  Great third vehicle - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By member12 - April 28 - 7:50 am

  This car deserves your consideration. I liked the Mazda3 better, but the Cobalt got a good crash test rating. It handles well, rides well, and was quieter than all of the other small cars I tested. I havent had a Chevrolet before. They are known for making good trucks, not cars, so I got the extended warranty, but I dont think I will need it. This Cobalt seems as well built as many more expensive cars.. I was impressed.

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  Not a great car.. very dissapointing - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Ashley - April 25 - 1:13 pm

  I have had this car for one year and in the last month I have had to take it to the dealership 5 times. Each time the dealership is unable to find what the problem is. The problems range from shifter column malfunction, stalling, poor gas mileage, sluggish to drive, broken CD player, needed a new heating and cooling system, key gets stuck in the ignition, car wont shift from park to drive, foul odor from vents when heat or vents are used.

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  Cobalt LS 2dr - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Kevin - April 24 - 5:33 pm

  My Cobalt has been a decent car for the past 6000 miles Ive driven it. Gets great gas mileage! Only thing is now, the engine chugs between 2500 and 3500 rpm. Im going to take it in to check it out. The car has lots of trunk space, but has a very small trunk opening, so you can only fit rather small boxes into the trunk, which confuses me.