The Chevrolet Cobalt is a compact car that was introduced in 2004 for the 2005 model year. The Cobalt is one of the most refined small cars from GM’s lineage. Available as both a coupe and sedan it is based on GM’s Delta platform, along with the Chevrolet HHR, Saturn ION and the European Opel Astra.

The sporty SS model in particular impresses with its refined and energetic driving dynamics, especially when one takes into consideration it’s pricing and segment. It has a basic warranty of 36 months/36,000 miles.

For 2007, the Cobalt's engines receive a minor boost in horsepower and a new choice of audio systems. A 3-spoke steering wheel replaces the former 4-spoke version. GM’s Remote Vehicle Starter is now offered as an optional feature. Stylish new wheels and a Sport Red Tintcoat exterior color are among other upgrades.

A standard Sport Package on the 3LT sedan gives it a sporty - aerodynamic feel. The package includes; a rear spoiler, white-faced sport gauges, 16-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, P205/55R-16 Touring tires, a chrome exhaust tip, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio and cruise controls and a leather-wrapped shift lever.

The Chevrolet Cobalt comes in two main body styles; the coupe and the sedan. The Cobalt Sedan is available in these trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ and SS. The Coupe is available in these trim levels: LS, LT, SS and SS Supercharged.

A 5-speed manual transmission (MT) is standard while a 4-speed automatic transmission (AT) is available. The LS, LT AND LTZ models have a Twin Cam, 16–valve 2.2L engine that produces 148 hp and 152 pound-feet (lb.–ft.) of torque. It has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 25/34 mpg (city/highway) for the 5-speed MT and 24/32 mpg (city/highway) for the 4-speed AT

The SS Coupe and Sedan have a 173 hp 2.4L high-output 16–valve powerplant with a peak torque of 163 lb-ft. EPA estimated fuel economy amounts to 25/34 mpg (city/highway) for the 5-speed MT and 24/32 mpg (city/highway) for the 4-speed AT.

The SS Supercharged has an all–aluminum dual overhead cam, four–cylinder naturally aspirated 2.0L ECOTEC Supercharged engine that delivers 205 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. It renders a mileage of 22/29 mpg (city/highway) for the 5-speed MT.

The Cobalt has the looks of a ‘proper’ Chevy with its trademark single-bar grille and bowtie emblem. It has a linear-wider body and is lower slung in comparison with the rest of its ilk.

The coupe resembles the old Cavalier it replaced. The sedan’s profile looks long and sleek with its swooping roofline. A small rear spoiler in the SS coupe and sedan models gives them ‘that’ little dash of ‘panache’.

The SS Supercharged coupe features an impressive rear spoiler that announces that this compact is seriously ‘sport’. 18-inch painted-aluminum wheels are standard on the SS Supercharged Coupe. Other standard exterior features include; two side galvanized-steel body panels, daytime running lamps, fog lamps (standard on the coupe and optional on the sedan), halogen head lamps and body colored mirrors.

The Cobalt’s interiors verge on the practical and the functional. Ride comfort is exceptional. The quality of materials used is par excellence. The instrument panel is user friendly with a nice graphic treatment.

LT, LTZ and SS models feature a convenient armrest storage unit between the front seats that doubles up as a coin, CD or sunglasses holder. It has an auxiliary input jack and two power outlets that can be used to recharge your cell phone or MP3 player.

The Cobalt offers a comfortable interior space and versatile storage features. Access to the rear seat is easy as well. Among its long list of standard features are air conditioning, a CD player, a driver information center, cruise control, defoggers, power windows, a remote keyless entry, two auxiliary power outlets, a cargo convenience net, a tilt-wheel steering column and AM/FM stereo with CD player

Other features on offer include an in-dash six-disc CD changer/MP3 player, heated leather seats, a power sunroof and OnStar.

All of the Cobalt‘s engines perform extremely well. Ride quality is pleasant and smooth.

SS models are sharp and savvy, with crisp handling characteristics and impressive acceleration.

Anti-lock brakes are standard across trims but optional on the LS models. Full-length side curtain airbags are optional. Standard safety features include; driver and front passenger airbags, head curtain airbags, LATCH (Lower anchors and top tethers for children), remote keyless entry-(includes content-theft security system), a Driver Information Center and Traction Control.