Be it comfort, style or performance, it’s easy for a small car to get one thing right. True versatility often comes in a much larger package with a much higher price tag—often, but not always. Meet the 2010 Chevy Cobalt, the small car that gets many things right.
Available as either a four-door sedan or two-door coupe, Chevy’s entry into the small car segment brings modern, expansive style in a compact package. The newest Cobalt’s aerodynamic body style more than keeps up with class trends, and gives the newest Chevy an exceptionally contemporary and sporty appeal.
The 2010 Cobalt’s front end features an athletic grille flanked by standard daytime running lights and available foglamps. The vehicle itself rests comfortably on available 17-inch alloys, which can be upgraded to an aggressive set of 18-inch aluminum alloys on the sporty SS coupe model. Softly arching fenders and fluid lines lead around the Cobalt’s compact frame, over the integrated roof antenna and back to an optional rear spoiler.
Except for the SS coupe, new Cobalts come powered by an exceptionally efficient 2.2-liter ECOTEC inline four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) that makes a generous 155 hp and 150 lb/ft of torque. SS models boost the powerplant to a turbocharged 2.0-liter VVT ECOTEC capable of a surprising 260 hp and 260 lb/ft of torque (more than a comparable Civic Si). While the 2.2-liter engine is controlled by a standard five-speed manual or available four-speed automatic transmission, the SS turbo features a five-speed manual only, with designs on squeezing every ounce of performance and enjoyment out of Chevy’s dynamic engine.
Despite each engine’s robust power, the true beauty of what rests beneath the hood of the new Cobalt lies in its startling efficiency. The 2.2-liter four in XFE (“Xtra” Fuel Economy) base, LS and 1LT coupe and sedan models, for instance, ensures an astounding 37 highway miles per gallon, more than competing models from Ford, Toyota and Honda. Cobalt 2LT trims deliver 35 mpg highway, and even the upgraded turbocharged SS reaches the 30 mpg plateau, besting Honda’s entry.
In sedan or coupe, the new front-wheel drive Cobalt integrates a premium front and rear suspension system, as well as available traction control to ensure sound grip, exceptional responsiveness and surprising smoothness. Versatile enough to handle long country roads and short city spurts with equal enthusiasm, the Cobalt’s drivability is enhanced even further with the SS’s sport-tuned suspension and upgraded Brembo performance brakes.
Inside, Chevy’s latest Cobalt takes versatility and value to new heights. Cobalt’s modern style is continued in its cabin design, where surprising spaciousness and comfort combine to create one of the most intuitive interiors in its class. Available leather buckets and a leather-wrapped steering wheel sit comfortably before a well-appointed and concisely designed dash, complete with a Driver Information Center and a number of innovative and convenient systems. In addition to precise climate control, an available MYLINK Technology Package integrates Bluetooth hands-free communication, as well as a USB port and XM Satellite Radio connectivity into the Cobalt’s premium audio system, while the Chevy’s stalwart OnStar system provides turn-by-turn directions and emergency response at the push of a button.
For additional safety, the latest Cobalt comes nicely equipped with driver and passenger airbags, as well as front and rear side-curtain bags. Cobalt’s available four-wheel antilock brakes provide exceptional stopping power, and a standard tire pressure monitoring system ensures proper tire inflation for peak performance and efficiency. Chevy’s comprehensive warranty coverage, which includes five-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, speaks volumes about Cobalt’s build quality and reliability.
As always, Cobalt’s most appealing characteristic is its remarkable value. Amply packed with modern style, spirited performance and surprising interior comfort, Chevy’s small car is equally compact when it comes to price: MSRP starts at just $14,990.