They get larger stabilizer (or sway) bars front and rear, with tuned suspension bushing. In addition, the chassis and springs were stiffened, the spring rates and damping were specially tuned and the shock strut valving was modified for a responsive, sport suspension feel.
The monotube rear shocks with 33-millimeter pistons are larger in diameter than those found on standard Cobalts, and the electric power steering also is tuned for increased driver feedback.
Cobalt SS Supercharged gets four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (the basic models gets drums in the back), which includes front rotors that are about 2.5 cm larger than those on the regular Cobalt. They're mounted on an all-new rear axle assembly that incorporates revised suspension geometry.
The SS Supercharged features larger, five-bolt wheel hubs, brake calipers and brake pads. The larger calipers and brake pads allow greater braking capacity and are proven performance parts found in other high-performance GM vehicles.
Cobalt SS Supercharged features what Langenhorst calls the segment's leading wheel size, with 18-inch forged-steel alloy wheels and P215/45R18 Z-rated performance tires.
He also says that the SS Supercharged Coupe also benefits from GM's recent experience using Ecotec-powered cars in the NHRA Summit Sport Compact Racing Series.
Compared to the Ecotec 2.2-liter I-4 in base Cobalt, the cam timing was altered significantly in the Supercharged SS to raise the mid-range torque and to match it with the top-end power.
The engine includes an Eaton M62 helical roots-type supercharger and features an air-to-water intercooler to reduce the temperature of air entering the engine. The supercharger produces a maximum boost pressure of 12 pounds per square inch.
The 240-millimeter clutch assembly is larger on the 2.0-liter supercharged I-4 than the other naturally aspirated Ecotecs, and the five-speed has close-ratio gearing that is tailored to the power band of the 2-liter engine.
''To improve acceleration the final drive ratio is also shorter at 4.05:1,'' Langenhorst explains, while ''a short-throw shifter quickens the shifts and provides a more positive feel as well. The shifter's travel is approximately 2.5 cm shorter than the shifter found in standard Cobalt models. Equal length transmission half shafts are also utilized to address torque steer in this front-drive car.''