The 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is a 2- or 4-door, 5-passenger family coupe, sports coupe, or family sedan. It is available in 8 trims, ranging from the LS Coupe to the SS Supercharged Coupe. The base price is $18,760.
The LS Coupe is equipped with a standard 2.2-liter, I4, 145-horsepower engine that achieves 25-mpg in the city and 34-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The SS Supercharged Coupe is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 205-horsepower, supercharged engine that achieves 23-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway.
The Cobalt LS provides a superior ride quality. It feels stable over swells and dips. However, the SS Supercharged has stiff suspension, low-profile 18-inch tires, making it feel harsh on rippled pavement. On smooth roads, it has the poise of a sports car. Quick, responsive handling and brisk acceleration make this car entertaining to drive.
Inside the Cobalt, the design theme is simple and straightforward. Materials are decent and the fit and finish is good. Instruments are large, well placed, and easy to read. There is plenty of fore/aft and rake adjustment for a 6-foot driver, plus seat height adjustment with a ratcheting handle. The leather-trimmed seats in the SS Supercharged are extremely comfortable.
The Cobalt is well-equipped with a variety of safety features, like dual-stage front air bags and front seatbelt pretensioners. The car will satisfy the needs of drivers looking for economy, safety, and a nice, quiet ride.
