2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
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2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt ▼
- Price Range: $6,400 - $17,500
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (SS Supercharged)
- Fuel economy
Cons
- Engine noise
- Rear-seat room
- Rear-seat entry/exit
Vehicle Highlights
Cobalt replaced Cavalier during 2005, becoming Chevrolet's first new compact design in 10 years. Larger and costlier than Chevy's Korean-built Aveo, Cobalt offered sedans and coupes that shared a basic structure with the Saturn Ion, though coupes didn't have Ion's rear access doors. Trim levels were base, LS, and LT for sedans; base, LS, and SS Supercharged for coupes. All shared Ion's 4-cyl engines. Base, LS, and LT Cobalts had 145 hp. The SS Supercharged coupe had 205 hp. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard on base and LS models, mandatory on the SS Supercharged. A 4-speed automatic was standard on the LT, optional on base and LS. SS Supercharged models had 18-inch wheels, sport suspension, and 4-wheel disc brakes. Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, CD player, and 60/40 split folding rear seat were standard. ABS was optional on base models, standard elsewhere. Traction control was standard on LT and SS Supercharged, available on base and LS. Other options included front side airbags packaged with curtain side airbags, sunroof, and OnStar assistance.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Cobalt LS w. Sport Pkg., auto. Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 52 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt:
Chevrolet expanded Cobalt's engine and model choices for 2006. Base models were renamed LS, LS became the LT, and LT sedans became the LTZ. Also added were non-supercharged SS sedans and coupes, powered by a 171-hp 4-cyl engine.
2007 Chevrolet Cobalt:
Cobalt carried over unchanged.
2008 Chevrolet Cobalt:
The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS marked the return of a high-performance model to this compact car's roster. The rest of the Cobalt lineup shuffled some some model names and features. SS was a coupe only, and it had a 260-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter. This SS replaced the SS Superhcarged, which had 205 hp.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Cobalt and similar Saturn Ion have adequate acceleration with either the 145- or 171-hp engine and manual or automatic transmission. Even with manual, a test 171-hp Ion doesn't feel significantly faster than models with the 145-hp engine. SS Supercharged feels as quick as Chevy's quote of 6.1 sec 0-60 mph. We recommend getting the available limited-slip differential to minimize torque steer (unwanted pulling to the side) during acceleration. A test Cobalt LS sedan with automatic transmission averaged 25.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. Similar Ions with manual transmission averaged 24.9-25.4 mpg. The SS Supercharged is similar to Saturn Ion Red Line, and that Saturn averaged 19.4 mpg in our test. Note that 145-hp Cobalts use regular-grade fuel, and Chevy recommends premium for SS and SS Supercharged. Cobalts with optional 16-inch tires ride well, showing good stability over bumps. SS Superchargeds have low-profile 18-inch tires and a sport suspension, making them feel harsh on rippled pavement. Handling also is above average for the class. Base models tested showed good grip and quick steering. SS Superchargeds are more athletic still. These compacts are quiet enough while cruising, with supercharged models suffering coarse-surface tire thrum. The 145-hp engine sounds harsh during acceleration, but calms down when at speed. Interior materials are a big step up for General Motors compact cars. While there are still hard plastic surfaces to be found, they do not look or feel cheap. Supercharged models add a boost gauge on the left windshield pillar as well as stylish sport seats and metal-look cabin trim. Driver and front passenger comfort is typical compact-car fare. Cobalts have adequate head and leg room, though tall drivers may find the seatbelt does not adjust high enough for best comfort. SS Supercharged has more-bolstered sport seats that snug occupants, but at the same time are not confining. Visibility is good in standard models, but trickier in Superchargeds due to that model's tall rear spoiler. Rear passengers will find themselves short on leg room. Cargo space is good thanks to a standard split folding rear seat and strut-type lid hinges. But a narrow trunk opening precludes the loading of bulky items. Decently-sized door pockets partially compensate for a tiny center console.
Value for the Money
Cobalt earns the Consumer Guide¨ Recommended badge as a reasonably priced, well-equipped compact available with many appealing features. Even the SS Supercharged offers good value in an off-the-shelf sport compact that's fun to drive, despite a jarring ride. If you can live with subpar rear-seat room and comfort, Cobalt merits a look.
Cobalt earns the Consumer Guide¨ Recommended badge as a reasonably priced, well-equipped compact available with many appealing features. Even the SS Supercharged offers good value in an off-the-shelf sport compact that's fun to drive, despite a jarring ride. If you can live with subpar rear-seat room and comfort, Cobalt merits a look.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Cobalt LS w. Sport Pkg., auto. Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 52 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Cobalt includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Cobalt .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Fuel gauge:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2005-06)
Interior trim:
The shifter knob comes off the shaft of the SS Supercharged model and must be retained with self-tapping screw and glue. (2005)
Keys:
The key won't come out because of a problem with the microswitch pin in the floor shifter assembly. (2005-06)
Oil leak:
Oil may leak from the 2.2L engine front crankshaft seal, especially in the winter, as the seal is damaged if ice forms at the mating surface then rips the seal lip when the engine is started, for which there is an improved seal. (2005)
Water leak:
Water leaks onto the passenger side floor from the A/C housing, requiring installation of a seal between the heater core and A/C housing. (2005-06)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $600 |
| Alternator | $250 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,100 |
| Brakes | $325 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $830 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $930 |
| Exhaust System | $420 |
| Radiator | $190 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $720 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $700 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Cobalt details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Cobalt LS, LT | $11,400-12,700 | $10,300-11,400 | $6,300-7,000 |
| Cobalt SS Supercharged | $17,200-19,000 | $15,800-17,500 | $11,000-12,200 |
| Cobalt Sport | $14,500-16,000 | $13,200-14,600 | $9,000-9,900 |
| 2007 | |||
| Cobalt LS, LT | $9,700-11,000 | $8,700-9,900 | $5,000-5,700 |
| Cobalt LTZ, SS | $11,500-13,500 | $10,400-12,200 | $6,300-7,400 |
| Cobalt SS Supercharged | $15,000-16,500 | $13,700-15,000 | $9,500-10,400 |
| 2006 | |||
| Cobalt LS, LT | $8,300-9,800 | $7,500-8,800 | $4,300-5,100 |
| Cobalt LTZ, SS | $10,300-11,500 | $9,300-10,400 | $5,500-6,100 |
| Cobalt SS Supercharged | $13,500-15,000 | $12,300-13,700 | $8,000-8,900 |
| 2005 | |||
| Cobalt | $7,200-9,200 | $6,400-8,200 | $3,500-4,500 |
| Cobalt SS Supercharged | $12,000-13,300 | $10,800-12,000 | $6,700-7,400 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Cobalt include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.3 | 103.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.3 | 180.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.9 | 67.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.7 | 57.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2730 | 2780 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.2 | 14.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.9 | 13.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 38.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.0 | 41.8 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 35.7 | 37.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.2 | 33.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Cobalt LS, LT, and LTZ have a 145-hp 4-cylinder engine. SS models have a 171-hp 4-cylinder. Both these engines are available with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. SS Supercharged has 205 hp and a mandatory 5-speed manual transmission. The Cobalt SS coupe joined the 2008 lineup. It had a 260-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.2 / 134 | 145 | 155 | 5-speed manual: 25/34 4-speed automatic: 24/32 |
5-speed manual: 25.1 4-speed automatic: 25.9 |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 145 | 171 | 163 | 5-speed manual: 25/34 4-speed automatic: 24/32 |
5-speed manual: 26 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Supercharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 205 | 200 | 5-speed manual: 23/29 | 5-speed manual: 16.4 |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 260 | 260 | 5-speed manual: 22/30 | 5-speed manual: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Cobalt include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2006 Cobalt |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2005 Cobalt:
The headlamp shields of some vehicles may loosen if they are vibrating. Dealer will replace both headlamp assemblies.
2005-06 Cobalt not equipped with optional roof-mounted side impact air bags:
The vehicle fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 201, 'Occupant Protection in Interior Impact.' In a crash, head impact protection may be inadequate. Dealers will install energy absorbing plastic to the headliner trim to reduce the severity of head impacts in a crash.
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