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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  2005 Cobalt - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By mark - July 8 - 10:40 pm

  I just got my new Cobalt last week, its a nice car to drive and has enough power. The only thing I dont like about it is there is not an engine temp gauge on the dash.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Rick - July 8 - 2:26 am

  I bought my 2005 Cobalt ls in August as a "used car" with 1600 miles on it. It was a lease vehicle and i think I got a steal on it. brand new car (I consider 1600 miles just broken in for me), 3 year warranty, great fuel economy (hour and 20 minute drive to work every morning), and i got it all for 12,800! power windows, locks, cruise, tilt, and alloy wheels! never thought id get a deal like this. and the car has been very reliable, no problems with it, Ive put 5000 miles on since I got it. Its also EXTREMELY fun to drive!

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  Fun To Drive - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By JOE - June 30 - 12:23 pm

  Still new but lots of fun to drive! Quiet interior sound.

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  Nice overall entry level car - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Sunburst Orange - June 22 - 2:00 am

  Its a great car for someone looking to not spend over $20,000 and still have some room and functionality. Great trunk room along with easy to function stereo, driver information center, and cruise control. Smooth drive with decent gas mileage in town(21 mpg..expected 25-28), but lower than advertised.

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  Not too shabby - 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By John - May 31 - 4:23 am

  Just got the car a few weeks ago as a new daily driver to replace my 97 Sunfire. Ride is very smooth. Ill be going down the highway thinking Im doing 65 and its really up around 80. Handling is nice and tight, with minimal torque steer. Ive been getting around 31 mpg, however its only a 13 gallon tank so it seems to go quicker than what youre averaging. Overall for the money, its hard to do better. The car is leagues ahead of the J-Bodies it replaced. Just will have to wait and see how it holds up in the long run.

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  Good bang for your dollar - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Styling - May 28 - 11:20 am

  I have been looking to buy a car for about 6 months and was getting set to buy a Mazda3. But then I saw the Cobalt and I fell in love with it. I found the Cobalt and the Mazda3 were pretty much the same car but with the Cobalt ranging anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 cheaper..Ill take that any day of the week. It has nice pick up and easy handling. The style is very nice and pleasing to look act.

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  Chevy Tech./Owner point of view - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By NJBLUESS - May 6 - 10:36 pm

  Very suprised by the cars capabilaties from the first test drive. Power is consistant (no dead spots/lag), but really loves rpms in the 4k+ range. Handling, this car will corner with confidence, there is very little understeer,if any. Response is crisp and accurate to quick manuavers. The G85/performance package is a must for the spirited driver.The LSD pulles the car through corners under accelleration.The Racero seats are snug fitting and keep you in position in turns,so larger people have complained of discomfort.I have driven all the styles of Cobalts and can say there is no comparison to the SS/SC w/G85. For reliability, Ive seen very few problems at my shop. Nothing unusual.

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  the new Chevy Cobalt - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By nolan - April 18 - 7:26 pm

  I bought my new Cobalt this summer and was impressed with the comfort while driving and its easy handling. It has a very smooth ride and great acceleration. Also the trunk space is huge. It is a great car!

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  I love My SS. - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By YoAdrian - April 7 - 12:36 am

  I started out looking at the Mazda 3 and I am very happy that I ended up with a Cobalt SS. I test drove just about every comparable car in this class and the Cobalt felt just as good as the Honda Civic and Nissan Altima. I will admit that I really liked the way that the Mazda 3 drove; however, The Cobalt SS is a great driver- on the highway as well as around town. I have always been cautious of American cars and I am glad to say that GM is finally building quality small cars. I am getting between 28-30 mpg with about half of my driving on the highway. The car feels solid, no rattles.

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  My Car - 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By John Smyth - April 2 - 11:26 am

  Seats arent very comfortable. No center armrest. Its very strange driving a vehicle with no center armrest, and no power mirrors or windows. Power windows should be standard, its a real pain in the neck and also dangerous trying to adjust the mirrors.