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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  A Great Car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By steve10 - March 21 - 10:33 pm

  I Love my Cobalt. I had a Cavalier and it was okay. The Cobalt is great. I have never wrote a review and had to do it as I love this car. Good AC, in Fl a must. The seats are a big improvement over the Cav. Everything is better. Chevy is building better cars. The handling is much better. Just seems solid. Knock on wood.

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  2005 Cobalt Ls Coupe - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By jc24 - March 13 - 8:03 am

  Its my first brand new car being a recent college graduate. Overall my Cobalt has been pretty good. No problems since I have purchased it. Standard horspeower is better then most others in its class for the price. Interior noise is low and it handles well on bumpy surfaces. I think all American automakers have made great strides in improving the quality of their cars and if your in the market for a new car check one of them out and support our economy.

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  Absolute garbage - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By dan - February 8 - 1:16 pm

  The car was great for a week.Looks great, quick, handles well. Then it shut off going down the highway. All by itself. A crank shaft sensor blew with 300 miles on it. A month later, the steering system failed. Needed an entire steering system. (electric motor, steering column, and steering shaft) Then, with 7000 miles on it, it needed new control arms and ball joints. The cruise control also broke at 7000 miles. This is the worst new vehicle Ive ever owned, and I do not advise purchasing one. GM does not stand behind their products. Very disappointed. The Cobalt SS/SC is complete trash, or at least mine was. Needed over $6000 worth of repairs within 6 months.

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  Stars Cobalt Review - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Star - January 22 - 5:36 am

  This car is great! For a small car, it has a LOT of room. You can actually sit comfortably in the back seat! The sound system is top notch and the mp3 player is an added bonus. This car handles great and has a lot of pickup. If you want a smaller car with room and speed...choose the cobalt.

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  Lovin My Cobalt! - 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By Debbie - January 9 - 4:40 pm

  I got this car less than a week ago and fell in love with it immediately... I recommend the spoiler, it adds a lot to the car, a sporty look. I would reccommend power windows, I always had them and didnt realize how much Id miss them. The ride is great, very smooth and good pick up. The car looks just as good as other more expensive cars on the road. I have a little one to get home to after work is over, but Ive been taking the long way home. I would recommend an extended warranty just in case Chevy has some flaws to work out with a brand new car, but so far no problems, but it is less than a week old.

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  I love this car - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
  By ncpjr2 - January 2 - 4:43 am

  I love to drive this car. For a 4 banger it has a lot of get up and go. The car has a nice layout and handles great.