TO THE POINTWhat’s New? The Cobalt replaces the aged Cavalier in the Chevrolet lineup for 2005. At the top of the lineup is the SS Supercharged Coupe, complete with a performance-tuned suspension and 205 horsepower. Selling Points: Abundant supercharged power, a slick manual gearbox, attractive styling, a reasonable starting price Deal Breakers: Not as thrilling as competing pocket rockets, poor build quality Our Advice: In the realm of cool coupes on the cheap, the Cobalt SS is a winner, albeit one with inferior fit and finish and that garish rear wing.
Specifications Competitors include the Dodge Neon SRT-4, Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Tiburon GT, Mazda 3s, Mini Cooper S, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Saturn Ion Red Line Quad Coupe, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Test Vehicle: 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe
Price of Test Vehicle: $24,585 (includes a $565 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: Supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Engine Horsepower: 205 horsepower at 5,600 rpm
Engine Torque: 200 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Curb Weight, lbs.: 2,991
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 23/29 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 26.4 mpg
Length: 180.5 inches
Width: 67.9 inches
Wheelbase: 103.3 inches
Height: 55.5 inches
Legroom (front/rear): 42.0/32.2 inches
Headroom (front/rear): 38.7/35.7 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Max. Cargo Volume: 13.9 cu. ft.
Competitors: Dodge Neon SRT-4, Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Tiburon GT, Mazda 3s, Mini Cooper S, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Saturn Ion Red Line Quad Coupe, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Jetta GLI
