Chevy Cobalt

Although GM certainly seems to be on shaky ground these days, one of their solid cars continues to be the Chevy Cobalt.  First introduced in 2004 to replace the Cavalier, the Chevy Cobalt continues to have solid performance.

Models

The 2009 Chevy Cobalt comes as either a two-door or four-door sedan in three models – the LS, LT and SS turbo.  The LS is the entry level model and available in both manual and automatic shift transmissions.  The LT is the higher end sedan and strives for small luxury car status and is only available in an automatic transmission.  The LT also includes antilock brakes, heated leather seats and traction control features.  Chevy Cobalt performance is ramped up with the SS turbo model, which offers zippier handling that may be pleasing to drivers looking for a small car that handles well.

Chevy Cobalt Performance

Chevy Cobalt performance falls is better than average, particularly with the SS turbo model.  With 22/30 (automatic) mpg gas mileage, fuel economy ranks fairly high compared to many other small cars in this price range.  Exterior sporty design contributes to many reviewers enjoying this small car and includes trim features such as rocker panels and a rear spoiler.  For a relatively small price, the sports appearance trim package includes fog lights, body cladding, chrome exhaust tip and polished alloy wheels.

SS Turbo

Of the three models, the SS turbo is the Chevy Cobalt performance winner.  The SS turbo model performs well in handling, with a 2.0 liter turbo-charged 260 hp four cylinder engine that revs up well while maintaining fuel economy.  The SS turbo is only available in a five speed transmission, while the other models, the LS and LT, are also available with four speed automatic transmissions.  For high spirited drivers looking for a fun to drive small car at a low price, the Chevy Cobalt SS turbo delivers without problem.

2011 Chevy Cobalt

Although 2011 is still a way into the future, GM has revealed its plans for the 2011 Chevy Cobalt and it appears that there are major changes on the horizon for this small entry-level car.  To begin with, the 2011 Cobalt will be renamed to become the Cruze.  This newly redesigned version of the Cobalt is widely expected to have a 1.4 liter turbo-charged engine and add gears, moving the four speed automatic to a five speed and the five speed manual transmission to a six speed.

In addition to Chevy Cobalt performance changes in the engine, it is expected that the exterior of the fully redesigned Chevy Cobalt will be somewhere along the lines of the well received Chevy Malibu, with a similar wheel base and smooth features.
Although details continue to remain unknown, the 2011 Chevy Cobalt is expected to be an exciting revision of the current strong and solid 2009 Chevy Cobalt.  The larger question may be the future of GM, given the current economic hardships this standard bearer of the American automotive industry is experiencing.