2009 Chevrolet Cobalt

As Americans clamor for greater fuel economy in the wake of attention-grabbing gasoline prices, Chevrolet is more prepared than some domestic automakers, which are overburdened with SUVs and other fuel-thirsty models. In addition to the subcompact Aveo sedan and hatchback, Chevrolet offers the compact-size Cobalt coupe and sedan. Introduced for the 2005 model year, Cobalt took the place of the Cavalier, which faded away after a run that lasted well over two decades. Chevrolet touted the Cobalt as a "premium small car," rather than targeting the low end of the small-car market, which includes the Aveo.

Updates for 2009

With the front-drive Cobalt, Chevrolet has kept its corporate foot in two worlds. Economy-minded shoppers can choose a mild-mannered thrifty model. Those who crave more muscular performance without sacrificing too much at the gas pump have the alternative of a turbocharged SS model.


Chevrolet claims the more powerful 2.2-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine for regular 2009 Cobalts, with variable valve timing, is more efficient than its predecessor. Developing 155 horsepower, as opposed to the previous 148, the 2009 engine again works with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.


An SS sedan joins the SS coupe for 2009, with the same 2.0-liter turbocharged, intercooled direct-injection engine, generating 260 horsepower. Only manual shift is offered in Cobalt SS models. For 2009, the Cobalt SS coupe gets a reconfigurable performance display on the dashboard. SS models have bolder fascias and rocker-panel sections, suggesting their sportier nature and more rousing performance potential. All-disc brakes and GM's StabiliTrak stability-enhancement system are standard on SS Cobalts, along with an FE3 sport suspension that includes driver-selectable modes.


New 15-inch low-rolling-resistance tires are mounted on Cobalts, and manual-shift models get a "taller" final-drive ratio for improved fuel economy. GM's OnStar communications/emergency system is standard. Bluetooth connectivity is available, and radios include an iPod-compatible USB port.