2009 Chevrolet Cobalt: Road Test
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt ▼
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- MSRP: $14,990 - $23,525
- Invoice: $14,540 - $22,466
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Our road test for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt help you decide if a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 8 | 8 | 5 |
With the 2.2-liter engine and manual transmission, Cobalt XFE has sufficient verve from a stop. Passing punch is a bit lacking, sometimes requiring a two-gear downshift in order to extract the most from the engine. Chevy pegs the turbocharged SS at 5.7 seconds 0-60 mph, but it doesn't feel quite that fast. Turbo or not, the manual transmission has positive shift and clutch action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 6 | 7.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a Cobalt XFE coupe averaged 32.1 mpg. An SS averaged 26.1 mpg with more highway than city miles. Chevy recommends premium-grade gas for the SS, regular otherwise.
RIDE QUALITY
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 4 | 5.2 |
Cobalt's stout body structure allows even XFE models to have a comfortably controlled ride, even on patchy pavement. Float and wallow are minimal at worst. The SS is fairly stiff, yet it's not bone-jarring as might be expected from a factory-tuned performance car.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Non-turbo versions are competent, but far from sporty. Those Cobalts, when equipped with the manual transmission, have low-rolling-resistance tires designed to increase fuel economy. Handling suffers as a result, with pronounced body lean and tire squeal while cornering even at modest speeds. SS versions are nimble, with little cornering lean, though their steering lacks the road feel we would expect of a factory-tuned compact. They don't quite have the razor-sharp moves of a Honda Civic Si or MazdaSpeed 3, however.
QUIETNESS
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
Wind rush is relatively low for the class. XFE models exhibit some coarse-surface tire thrum and suffer from a raspy engine note while accelerating, though it's quiet while cruising. SS has some turbo whine and a ticking resonance from the engine. Tire noise is noticeable, though again, not as much as might be expected from a car of its ilk.
CONTROLS
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Neat, logical dashboard, but some testers find the gauges a tad small and recessed too far into the cluster for easy reading. The simple climate controls are set too low for easy adjustment while driving.
DETAILS
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Hard plastics dominate the cabin. Textured surfaces and tasteful cloth fabric look good for the class. LS models are pretty basic overall. Some additional trim bits in the SS impart a more sporty atmosphere, though we don't think they go quite far enough to be truly distinctive from other Cobalts.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
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 coupe really restricts the view out back.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
The sedan matches its rivals for head clearance, but legroom and foot space are tighter than in most competitors. The door openings are also small, making entry and exit a hassle. Overall room and access in coupes are best left to kids, and even they will complain about a shortage of legroom and headroom.
CARGO ROOM
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.9 |
The trunk has 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 XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Cobalt and the similar Pontiac G5 are reasonably priced, well-equipped compacts available with many nice features. XFE models are pleasant to drive and deliver fuel economy that exceeds the class norm. 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 trail class rivals. G5's lack of a 4-door body style limits its appeal, making Cobalt the better choice between the two.
Total Score
| LT XFE coupe, manual | SS coupe | SS sedan | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 56 | 57 | 60.1 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Compact Cars
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