Where the new Chevrolet Cobalt potentially disappoints is under the sheetmetal. Based on the global General Motors Delta small car platform, the Cobalt shares its basic underpinnings with the Saturn ION, a car that has underwhelmed critics and consumers alike. The suspension is not a four-wheel-independent design, with MacPherson struts in front and an unsophisticated torsion beam solid rear axle. Front and rear stabilizer bars come standard, and three levels of suspension tuning are available depending on the model. Disappointingly, drum rear brakes are used on all but the performance-tuned SS models. Steering is electric, a speed-sensitive variable effort system tuned differently for the SS models, delivering a turning radius of 34.8 feet.

Under the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt's shapely hood resides one of three available engines. Base, LS and LT models are powered by a 2.2-liter inline four cylinder that makes about 140 horsepower. The performance-oriented SS gets a 2.4-liter inline four with variable valve timing that is expected to produce 170 horsepower. Coupes in SS Supercharged trim will receive a supercharged 2.0-liter four banger capable of producing more than 200 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed automatic optional. The SS Supercharged coupe gets a beefed up manual to manage its power and torque.