Chevy Cobalt

The Chevy Cobalt coupe is the two door model of the Cobalt.  Sporty and zippy, the Cobalt is a small entry level car that offers loads of options at a reasonable price.

Models

The Chevy Cobalt coupe comes in three models – the LS, the LT and the SS Turbo. 

Of the three, the SS Turbo is definitely the more expensive – starting MSRP of approximately $24,000 – but it is also the sportiest and fastest of the group.  The LS is the bottom of the line, but still offers loads of standard options, including XM satellite radio, internet access, a security system that includes a panic alarm and much more.  The LT offers luxury inspired options like suede/cloth seats, heated front seats, power windows and six way driver seat adjustment.  The LS and LT are available in either 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.  The SS Turbo is only available in 5-speed manual transmission.

SS Turbo Coupe

Of the Chevy Cobalt Coupe models, the SS Turbo is definitely the sporty, zippy one of the group.  Fueled by a 2.0 liter 260 horsepower turbo charged engine, this little speed demon goes from zero to 60 in less than 8 seconds and still manages to get a fuel efficient 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.  If you are looking for a reasonably priced, fun car to drive as you fly down the road with the windows rolled down, this is definitely the car for you.

Chevy Cobalt Coupe EFX

The latest model of the Chevy Cobalt is called the Chevy Cobalt EFX.  EFX stands for “eXtra Fuel Efficient.”  Basically, this is a stripped down version of the Chevy Cobalt that maximizes modifications to improve fuel efficiency.  Forget power windows and fancy non-essentials like power seat adjusters.  The EFX does have air conditioning and XM satellite radio with a CD changer, but most of the other luxuries we have come to take for granted are missing.

However, in exchange for leaving those goodies behind, the payoff is better fuel efficiency – 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.  By increasing the power from 148 horsepower to 155 horsepower, you can cruise at 60 mph while still in second gear.

As an answer to the increased pressure for more fuel efficient cars that don’t cost an arm and a leg, the Chevy Cobalt Coupe EFX is an excellent option while we await the much anticipated Volt in 2010 and the redesigned Cobalt (renamed the Cruze) in 2011.

Summary

The Chevy Cobalt coupe is an excellent entry level small car for drivers who want a car that offers both excellent price and zippy pick-up.  Of the three models – the LS, LT and SS Turbo – the SS Turbo offers the best handling and the fastest engine for a reasonably good price.  If fuel efficiency is what captures you attention, then the Chevy Cobalt Coupe EFX is the answer to your quest.  With 24/37 mpg, the EFX offers excellent fuel efficiency in a basic introductory car.