Review
Introduction
Chevrolet’s entry into the compact-car segment is the Cobalt. Launched in 2005, the Cobalt replaced the aged Cavalier in showrooms. Built on the front-drive Delta platform that also underpins the Saturn Astra, the Cobalt boasts a solid structure and a compliant ride. Available as a two-door coupe or four-door sedan, the Cobalt offers class-competitive interior space in either iteration. Interior quality is not quite up to the best in the segment; loads of shiny, poorly grained plastic and a dashboard design that tries to ape the previous-generation Volkswagen Jetta but comes up short are among its faults.
All Cobalt models have front-wheel drive and distinguish themselves in their class by offering above-average horsepower for the price. Base models are powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder with 148 horsepower. Moving upward yields a 2.4-liter version of the same engine with 171 horsepower. An easy-to-shift five-speed manual is standard on all Cobalts, and a four-speed automatic is optional. The SS uses a 260-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four and is available only as a coupe with a five-speed manual transmission.
For 2008, Cobalts come in five different trim levels (LS, LT, 2LT, Sport, and SS). The old SS and SS Supercharged models were dropped and replaced by a single turbocharged SS version. Aside from the SS, though, the Cobalt might not be the best option if you’re looking for a sporty compact—many of its competitors offer a superior driving experience—but the Cobalt’s price, looks, and calm over-the-road demeanor make it an acceptable choice as a transportation appliance. Pontiac dealers sell a clone of the Cobalt called the G5, but it is available only as a two-door.
Major competitors to the Chevy Cobalt include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, Scion xD, Suzuki SX4, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Pontiac G5, Saturn Astra, and Volkswagen Rabbit. The SS trades punches with the Volkswagen GTI, Mazdaspeed 3, Dodge Caliber SRT4, Subaru Impreza WRX, and the upcoming Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
Verdict
Beyond the fun and capable turbocharged SS model, the Cobalt line offers little for the enthusiast driver. For nonenthusiasts, the remaining Cobalt models offer an inoffensive if forgettable driving experience and good fuel economy. Unfortunately, the look of the Cobalt is similarly forgettable and uninspiring. The Cobalt is a straight-C student in an extremely competitive and burgeoning class of cars.
Click here to read our full review of the Chevrolet Cobalt.
Click here to read our full review of the Chevrolet Cobalt SS.
What’s New for 2008
For 2008, the SS returns as a single turbo model that replaces both of the old SS models, naturally aspirated and supercharged. The remaining Cobalts do get some additional standard equipment including tire-pressure monitoring, curtain airbags, and XM satellite radio. Traction control comes to models with ABS and an automatic transmission, stability control and OnStar emergency and convenience services are standard on 2LT and Sport models, and the Sport package becomes the Sport Appearance package. Other options include two new shades of blue and a grayish hue dubbed Slate.
