2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Review

A number of compact relatively inexpensive rockets have come to market lately, such as the Dodge SRT4 and the Mazdaspeed3. Chevrolet has launched the latest salvo in this thin-wallet performance war with the 2008 Cobalt SS. It's a front-wheel-drive coupe that for 2008 is fitted with a turbocharger rather than last year's supercharger.

Sleek coupe-like lines distinguish this little brute from its competitors.

Sporty coupe appearance
Unlike most of its competitors, the Cobalt SS gets by with two doors rather than four. That enables it to project a sleeker, sportier coupe-like image while still seating five passengers. I like the cleanliness of its lines and the subtlety of its "SS" add-ons. Subtle? Well, everything sans the garish bi-winged spoiler atop the trunk of my tester.

This abysmal piece of plastic interferes with rearward vision and undermines the vehicle's credibility as a serious performer by appearing cartoonish. Fortunately, it's optional. A smaller, more tolerable spoiler arrives as standard SS fare.

Unfortunately, the sleek lines of the Cobalt result in a restrictive trunk opening that significantly limits the size of objects it can swallow despite the availability of plenty of interior volume thanks to folding rear seats.

Front seats highlight cabin
The Cobalt's cabin is what you'd expect from its "economy" car roots. There are plenty of low-rent materials and construction quality is typical of the segment. Standing-out from the uninspiring surroundings though are exceptionally good front seats. These supportive perches provide plenty of side bolstering and sufficient adjustment to suit most drivers.

Suede-like seat inserts help prevent slip sliding around when gravity takes hold. Legroom is aplenty up front but quite challenged in the rear, as is headroom in coach class. Although the twin doors are long, rear seat ingress/egress can be tough for all but gymnasts. I found the lack of a centre-console armrest and storage bin disappointing and inconvenient.

Silver plastic inserts add visual appeal to the cabin and provide adequate "SS" distinction. The speedometer and tachometer are large and unobstructed while heat and air conditioning controls are simple to operate and logically laid-out.

Standing-out from the uninspiring surroundings are exceptionally good front seats.