2010 Chevrolet Cobalt Review

Overview

Chevrolet Cobalt enters into 2010 with an efficient lineup of XFE, LS, LT and turbocharged SS models. There are a few changes for the Cobalt lineup for 2010, including exterior and interior color revisions. The customer-focused package of choices, convenience and safety features that many other competitors cannot match - including Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and an iPod-compatible USB port in the radio - make it a good pick in its class. The Chevy Cobalt's main competitors are Ford Focus; Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

Power and performance

Two engine choices are available: 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. The normally aspirated 2.2-liter engine powers the LS and LT models with 155 hp and 150 pound-feet of torque. The standard transmission for LS and LT models is a five-speed manual, with an optional four-speed automatic. The base manual is badged the XFE, which indicates its extra fuel economy. The Cobalt SS is powered by a sophisticated 2.0L turbocharged and intercooled Ecotec engine that uses direct injection technology to deliver its balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The XFE is rated at 37 mpg on the highway; the LS and LT models deliver 33 mpg on the highway and the high-performance Cobalt SS yields 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

Body and styling

The Chevrolet Cobalt LS model leads by price and is well equipped with key features that include body-color door handles, grille, and front and rear fascias; vehicle theft-deterrent system; power steering; premium ride suspension; CD/MP3 player; auxiliary audio input jack; XM Radio with three trial months; OnStar with one-year Safe & Sound Plan; a tire pressure monitor; driver information center; a new tire inflator kit; and 15-inch steel wheels. The Cobalt 1LT adds center console with armrest; power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; sport cloth seating surfaces; power-adjustable, body-color rearview mirrors; CD/MP3 player; auxiliary audio input jack; XM Radio with three trial months; OnStar with one-year Safe & Sound Plan; tire pressure monitor; and a driver information center. The Cobalt 2LT adds remote vehicle starter system; traction control; cruise control; body-color body-side moldings; cargo net; CD/MP3 player; auxiliary audio input jack; XM Radio with three trial months; tire pressure monitor; driver information center; OnStar with one-year Safe & Sound Plan; and 16-inch machined-face aluminum wheels. The Cobalt SS upgrades to chrome-tipped exhaust; performance handling suspension; front and rear body-color sport fascias; fog lamps; spoiler; StabiliTrak electronic stability control system; Pioneer seven-speaker audio system; new Bluetooth wireless connectivity; premium cloth bucket seats with UltraLux inserts; floor console with two auxiliary outlets; leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel; power windows and door locks; cargo net; and 18-inch forged-aluminum wheels with performance tires. Among the newly available features on the Cobalt is a wireless cell phone link and a USB port for controlling iPods.

Safety Features

All Chevy Cobalt vehicles built today come with comprehensive safety and security features to protect occupants before, during, and after a collision. Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags.