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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  An ACTUAL review - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Bob - January 30 - 2:16 am

  The Cobalt is, thankfully, a massive improvement over recent Cavaliers. The car just feels so *solid*, and I havent felt that from a GM small car in years. I enjoy driving it even more than the Pontiac G6 I test drove, and I feel a lot more connected to the road than I did in the Mazda 3 when I test drove it. The interior is the nicest surprise, too -- all the high quality materials are just such a surprise considering the Cavaliers interior. You all should test drive this car, you wont be disappointed.

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  One of the best cars to own - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Jacob Hughes - January 21 - 12:56 am

  I have owned the car for a while now, and find that is a fun little car to drive. I am loving the gas mileage that the car gets. The purchasing of the car was fairly simple, and the dealership gave me the best price around. I have had one minor problem, but the dealership took care of the problem. I have not had any problems from the car since. I think that it is a totally reliable car. I would reccommend a car like this to anyone who wants good gas mileage and a car that is fun to drive.

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  Great Car - especially for the price - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By a matic - January 11 - 7:20 am

  It is larger than you first think. The engine is terrific. The size of the whole car is just right. Big enough to carry 4 people, small enough to be fuel efficient, and powerful enough to not require a V6. The stereo is a great design and a joy to work although a little more power would be nice. The paint job on my Cobalt is exceptional. I bought the paint protection. I think it is well worth the price for any car. Overall a great ride for not much money. I looked at Focus, but I think the Cobalt is a better car for less money.

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  Chevy Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By chevygirl20 - January 9 - 2:53 am

  I love this car, I feel so safe driving it! It is so cute and it hardly sounds like the engine is on, it is so quiet!

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  On par with imports, better price! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By diamond dave - November 25 - 1:53 am

  Its unfortunate that GM gave themselves a bad rep in the 80s and 90s, because this little gem seems to have gone unnoticed. Ours has some upgrades, but the best thing about it over the LS is the wheels. The alloy rims are wider than the LS and is makes a huge difference on the road. It feels so much more solid that the standard rims! The car is quiet at all speeds. The interior trim doesnt have issues yet, but judging from the reviews, I think well look in to after market upgrades. All in all, I think this vehicle is on par with the Accord or Camry, althouh the interior is not as refined. The one thing I would stress is get the premium wheels, it makes all the difference in the world!

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  2005 Chevy Cobalt LT - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By FloridaKusa - November 16 - 10:00 pm

  This is a very dependable car with a smooth ride. It has stylish features and comes with a nice selection of features.

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  3 months on... - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By cragman1 - November 7 - 4:26 am

  This is my second review, having owned it for three months. My first review was from the new ownership perspective. This one is from the "getting used to it" side. I can honestly say that the Cobalt LS automatic coupe with a rear raised spoiler just keeps getting better from several perspectives. It looks a lot more expensive than it was (based on public reaction). It feels more expensive than it was (based on my owning a Mitsubishi as well and riding in Toyotas I dont own). And it performs as though it was a lot more expensive.

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  Great Car! - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Ron - November 2 - 12:33 am

  I have to say Cheverlet did it right with this car. It accelerates like a V6 would and when the supercharger kicks in at higher RPMs it really makes a difference. Handles well and really turns peoples heads. The wheels are great too!

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  Cobalt coupe LS 5speed 2006 is just OK - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By john - October 31 - 2:40 am

  This is a good handling car, with a great ride and somewhat quiet, good looks and good value, huge trunk but small opening. I am everaging 32 MPG and very happy with that. No arm rest on 5spd tranny models, cup holders are too shallow drink tends to tip over in turns, interior is very attractive but extremely cheaply made, the door fabric is pulling away from under the door closing pull cup, American cars depreciate faster than Japaneese cars by a large margin. I am "buried". If you want one buy a used one, its a decent car

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  Fun little car - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jane - October 25 - 9:06 am

  Got this car a while ago with 5,000 miles on it. Its been good so far, has great fuel economy and is really fun to drive, especially in the city. Its great to park! The seats are a little stiff after 4 or 5 hours, and the side mirrors are a little smaller than Id like, but other than that I really like the look and feel.