The 2009 Chevy Cobalt
The Chevy Cobalt replaced the aging Chevrolet Cavalier line and shares the same platform as the Pontiac G5, as well as several other of GM's small car lines. The Cobalt has been a popular seller since its debut several years ago. However, the 2009 Cobalt offers a few new tweaks to the lineup. The vehicle will still be available in LS and LT trim levels, but the SS trim level is new for 2009 and the sport model has been discontinued. Current models begin at $14,990 for a base model, $15,660 for an LS and $16,460 for an LT model. The hot Cobalt SS starts at $23,525.
The Chevy Cobalt is available as a 2-door coupe or a 4-door sedan in all three trim levels. The LS and LT models utilize a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the new SS trim level will enjoy a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The 2.2-liter engine is capable of producing 155 hp, while the turbocharged version found in the SS produces 260 hp at peak RPM. The standard 5-speed manual transmission can be replaced with an optional 4-speed automatic transmission on all trim levels. Additionally, Chevy has gone to great lengths to provide numerous packages and add-ons for each trim level. As a note, not all options are available for all trim levels.
2009 Chevy Cobalt Performance
The Cobalt has always been a peppy car. Its claim to fame has long been its acceleration, though road noise and other factors do take away from the overall value of the vehicle. However, where performance is concerned, the Cobalt is a fun vehicle to drive.
The 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine may only produce 155 hp, but this is more than sufficient to propel the Cobalt around town or down the highway. When the pedal is depressed, the response is instantaneous. While the power and performance will never match that of a high-end coupe of sedan, the Cobalt does a nice job in its class. The SS version is capable of 0-60 mph times in the 5.7-second range, though the LS and LT versions are somewhat slower off the mark.
The LS and LT versions are produced with low-rolling resistance tires, which help reduce fuel consumption, but also adversely affect handling. Don't expect sport-tuned handling from these models. However, the SS trim level does provide sportier handling, though it doesn't quite match some of the other options in the compact-car class.
Ride quality is very nice for the LS and LT models, with little wallow. Bumps and potholes are noticeable, but not jarring, while the SS version has a tighter, sport-tuned suspension that makes the ride considerably firmer. The quietness of the ride is somewhat surprising, even with the noise from the tires. Obviously, the SS model has some turbo whine during spool-up.
2009 Chevy Cobalt Interior
The interior of the Cobalt is still a world dominated by hard plastic. The dash, consoles, door panels and storage areas are all molded, textured plastics. However, the texturing of the plastic, combined with the moderate patterning of the seats creates a decent feel to the interior.
The legroom and headroom in the front is sufficient for tall drivers, but only because the seats can be adjusted rearward by a considerable amount. The legroom and headroom in the rear seats suffers dramatically and average adults will have a difficult time getting comfortable back there. In addition, access to the rear seats in either the sedan or the coupe is restrictive and uncomfortable.
The gauges mounted in the dash are adequate, but basic, providing vital information but little more. In addition, Chevy built in very little storage space in the interior. The glove box is inordinately small, as are the door pockets and center console storage slot. While the trunk is roomy and can be expanded by letting down the rear seats, the small trunk opening limits the size of cargo by a considerable amount.
Overall, the interior of the Cobalt is utilitarian, though nice. However, the limited space may force some potential owners to rethink their decision, especially if they will routinely drive other adults around in the vehicle. The rear seats are the largest drawback to the Cobalt and are adequate only for smaller children.
2009 Chevy Cobalt Safety Equipment
The Cobalt may not be the largest compact car on the market, but it does provide several safety features that drivers will find handy. Front driver and passenger airbags are standard on all models, while side curtain airbags are optional. The antilock braking system is available for all wheels, though only the front two wheels are standard on the LS model. The antiskid system helps ensure the vehicle remains surefooted on the road, while the traction control system helps the vehicle grip on numerous surfaces and driving conditions.
2009 Chevy Cobalt Options and Upgrades
Chevy has imbued the 2009 Cobalt with numerous upgrades and available options. A leather package, sport package, spoiler, additional safety features and others are available across the board. In addition, the SS trim level is available with a limited slip differential for better handling and acceleration. A power sunroof, upgraded sound system, body side moldings and special paint are available for the LT trim level, as well.
2009 Chevy Cobalt Summary
The 2009 Chevy Cobalt is a reliable, enjoyable vehicle. While it may not have the same legroom and headroom as other vehicles in its class, the fuel savings it provides are considerable. In addition, while it is outperformed by both the Honda Civic Si and the MazdaSpeed3, but the Cobalt beats both of these options in both price and fuel consumption. In summation, the Cobalt is an excellent vehicle for almost any type of driver, from student drivers to those seeking an economical daily driver for work and use around town.
For price, style and attitude, the Cobalt is an excellent choice. In addition, the performance offered by the SS trim style helps ensure that you have the "get up and go" that you need during any type of driving, though the LS and LT models do offer peppy power off the mark.