2008 Chevrolet Cobalt: Road Test
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2008 Chevrolet Cobalt ▼
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- MSRP: $14,410 -$22,335
- Invoice: $13,617 -$21,107
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Our road test for the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt help you decide if a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 8 | 4.8 |
Cobalts with the 2.2-liter engine are peppy enough for most daily driving needs. The similar Pontiac G5 GT shares the Cobalt Sport's 2.4-liter engine. With the automatic transmission, acceleration is adequate but not as lively as 171 hp might suggest. Chevy pegs the turbocharged SS at 5.7 seconds 0-60 mph, but it doesn't feel quite that fast. Its manual transmission has positive shift and clutch action, making it much easier to drive than the old SS Supercharged.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, automatic-transmission sedans averaged 25.9-28.6 mpg. We've not measured any other Cobalts or G5s. Models with the 2.2-liter engine use regular-grade gas. Premium is recommended for the 2.4-liter engine and SS.
RIDE QUALITY
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5.1 |
With its optional 16-inch tires, Cobalts absorb most bumps quite well and feel stable over swells and dips. The G5 GT and similar Cobalt Sport have 17-inch tires and a sport suspension. The G5 GT rides firmly but is never uncomfortable. Cobalt SS is the stiffest of all, yet it's not bone jarring as might be expected from a factory-tuned performance car.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 5.9 |
Models with 16-inch tires have quick, informative steering. The G5 GT has slightly sharper moves, though some body lean is still evident in turns. The SS is the most nimble, with little lean and firm steering. Stopping control is good, but models equipped with rear drum brakes have spongy brake-pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
Wind rush and most road noise is relatively low for the class. The 2.2- and 2.4-liter engines moan unpleasantly when accelerating but cruise calmly enough. Same goes for the SS, which exhibits some turbo whine and a ticking resonance from the engine. It also has more tire noise than other Cobalts or G5s.
CONTROLS
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Neat, logical dashboard, but some testers find the gauges a tad small and recessed too far into the dashboard for easy reading. The simple climate controls are set too low for easy adjustment while driving.
DETAILS
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Hard plastics dominate the cabin, but many surfaces are textured so that they don't look cheap. One test model had a rattle in the glovebox area. Some additional trim bits in the SS impart a more sporty atmosphere, appropriate for that car's intentions.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Typical compact-car space and comfort. The seat cushions are a bit short for best thigh support, but generous rearward travel gives good legroom for tall occupants. Some taller drivers found that the shoulder belt did not adjust high enough for best comfort. SS models have sport bucket seats that will feel confining to those of above-average girth. Visibility is a bit restricted to the right rear in sedans. The tall spoiler on the SS really restricts the view out back.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 4.1 |
The sedan matches rivals such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for head clearance, but legroom and toe space are tighter than in most competitors. The door openings are also small, making entry and exit a hassle. Coupe room and access are best left to kids.
CARGO ROOM
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.9 |
Both body styles have usefully shaped trunks with good room that's expandable via folding rear seatbacks. Strut-type lid hinges don't steal space, but the trunk opening is too small for really big cargo. Interior storage is subpar, with a smallish glove compartment, center console, and door pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Cobalt and the similar Pontiac G5 are reasonably priced, well-equipped compacts available with many appealing features. The high-performance SS has the moves to hold its own against performance-oriented compact cars, such as the Honda Civic Si and MazdaSpeed 3. Rear seat room and comfort in all models trail class rivals, even in sedans. G5's lack of a 4-door body style limits its appeal, making Cobalt the better choice between the two.
Total Score
| LT sedan, automatic | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 54 | 55 | 58.7 |
Total Score: 55
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