2005 Chevrolet Cobalt

Attack of the miniatures ensues again. Just kidding, but the compact car industry is going wild with the fuel prices going up, and long distance driving going down, most people want a quick fix in the form of a small car that has a small tank, and can go forever on a tank of gas. Chevrolet decided to fix this problem, and give us a savior in the form of the Cobalt. With the fuel economy averaging around 25 mpg on the hwy, this little car looks to be a good step in the right direction, but when you take comfort away to attempt to accomplish the impossible, it does not rate on my list of "good cars".

Now dont get me wrong, if you are looking for a commuter car to get back and forth to work, with a good storage bin that Chevrolet calls a back seat then this is the car for you. It does have a peppy 4 cylinder engine that cranks out around 148 horsepower, with the SS model pushing 178 horsepower, and the SS supercharged edition getting all the way up to 205 horsepower, but even at the max 205, it still feels a little sluggish. It has good response and handling, but body roll in corners is definitely there, and it jerks the steering wheel back a little too much on sharp corners which could cause someone to over steer. Another problem that they havent yet to correct through the 2009 models is the engine noise you hear while accelerating. It does quiet down at cruising speed, but on the way you can hear the freight train through the dash loud and clear.

To be fair, some of the strengths of this car can shine through no matter what edition you decide on. There are plenty of options to make this a smart little number such as ABS on the SS models, and also the rear disc brake option on the supercharged edition. The only thing that does bother me about these options is that on most cars in this class these "options" are standard equiptment. Small back seats can do a number on your back, if you have grown to be over 4'9" tall. With small door openings, and even smaller seats, this is definitely meant to be a "kids in the back" car.

Overall, if you want something that is smart, and looks sporty to drive to work and back, this is the car for you. Whereas if you are needing a roomy, comfortable cruiser, I would suggest looking more toward the midsize range, and avoiding this one. There havent been any major mechanical issues with this particular model, but as with all new lines, time will tell. As with any car, I would suggest you take it to a ASE certified mechanic for a thorough inspection before purchase, and please remember, your car will only treat you as good as you treat it so Keep on driving....