Although GM certainly seems to be on shaky ground these days, one of their solid cars continues to be the Chevy Cobalt. First introduced in 2004 to replace the Cavalier, the Chevy Cobalt continues to have solid performance.
The Chevy Cobalt Models
The 2009 Chevy Cobalt comes as either a two-door or four-door sedan in three models ” the LS, LT and SS turbo. The LS is the entry level model and available in both manual and automatic shift transmissions. The LT is the higher end sedan and strives for small luxury car status and is only available in an automatic transmission. The LT also includes anti lock brakes, heated leather seats and traction control features. Chevy Cobalt performance is ramped up with the SS turbo model, which offers zippier handling that may be pleasing to drivers looking for a small car that handles well.
The Performance of the Chevy Cobalt
The Chevy Cobalt SS turbo is the one with the best performance of the three. It has a 22/30 (automatic) mpg gas mileage, which is a good mileage for a car its size and price tag. Besides fog lights, body cladding, polished alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip, the Chevy Cobalt SS turbo also includes a rear spoiler and rocker panels. Many love the car for its sporty look.
The Chevy Cobalt SS Turbo
The LT and LS models have both a four and a five speed transmission, the Chevy Cobalt SS turbo only has a five speed transmission. Besides its amazing looks, the Chevy Cobalt SS turbo is a very economical car with its 2.0 liter turbo-charged 260 hp four cylinder engine. The handling is great, the price is low, therefor it is the best performer of the three models.
Looking ahead for the 2011 Chevy Cobalt
Many changes will come to the 2011 Chevy Cobalt, currently known as the Cruze. The Chevy Cobalt automatics currently have a 4 gear transmission, which will be upgraded to a 5 gear transmission. The manuals will go one up too, going from a 5 gear to a 6 gear transmission. The design of the car will be improved but will keep its sporty feel. Next to all this, the engine is widely expected. The 1.4 liter turbo-charged engine is something many car consumers are looking forward to.
In addition to Chevy Cobalt performance changes in the engine, it is expected that the exterior of the fully redesigned Chevy Cobalt will be somewhere along the lines of the well received Chevy Malibu, with a similar wheel base and smooth features. Although details continue to remain unknown, the 2011 Chevy Cobalt is expected to be an exciting revision of the current strong and solid 2009 Chevy Cobalt. The larger question may be the future of GM, given the current economic hardships this standard bearer of the American automotive industry is experiencing.
