Standard on the Cobalt's LS and 1LT trims, a new XFE package features equipment revisions to gain up to 4 additional miles per gallon highway with negligible impact to performance. Amongst the enhancement is one of the first non-hybrid applications for a revolutionary improvement in tire technology. Called low-rolling resistance tires, the tread and rubber is engineered to provide better fuel economy by minimizing the rotational resistance related to standard tires. Low-rolling resistance tires can draw approximately 2-4 percent greater fuel efficiency without any significant compromises to stopping ability or tire wear. These tires are only available with 15 inch wheels. Other wheel sizes do not enjoy this XFE treatment and ride on standard tires. Another unique modification within the XFE version takes place in the Cobalt's transaxle. A taller 3.62:1 final drive gear is now fitted to the standard five-speed manual transmission. In full XFE trim, the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt delivers 25 city miles or 35 highway miles from a gallon of gasoline.
Granting the fact that Chevrolet has placed a considerable fuel savings into the XFE trim, Cobalts not equipped with XFE technology enjoy overall gas mileage above 25 miles per gallon. Optimizing the performance potential of the all Cobalts on the LS and LT in 2009, the 2.2 liter four-cylinder Ecotec engine returns with the added perk of variable valve timing. Fitted to a four-speed automatic for Cobalts equipped with 2LT trim levels, 24 miles per gallon city and 33 highway are possible while allowing a flashy set of lightweight aluminum wheels.