![]() ![]() In contrast, the GTI’s power plant delivers prodigious torque at low revs with negligible turbo lag. The maximum horsepower isn’t the sole selling point Volkswagen had already squeezed more than 200 hp out of the turbocharged 1.8-liter in the Audi TT, but that was an engine from which most of the fury came at higher rpm. We were knocked out by Volkswagen’s application in the GTI - also a 2.0-liter four, which produces 200 hp. The combination of turbo and direct injection is such a winning formula it’s clear why some manufacturers are moving toward it for their entire line. For 2008 Chevy replaced the supercharged four-cylinder engine with a turbocharged version - a 2.0-liter with direct injection. The SS gets its upgrades where it matters, starting under the hood. The standard rear spoiler is tasteful a larger one is optional. Thankfully, what they don’t do is go overboard and make it look silly. The Cobalt is inoffensive, and Chevy’s SS sport enhancements, including lowered bumpers and rocker panels, can only do so much. Does the SS transcend the regular Cobalt to such a stunning degree? It does in some ways, but not in all ways.Īt a glance, the styling doesn’t really impress. To my surprise, it was also a far more capable, well-rounded performance car than a Neon had a right to be - certainly good enough to justify leaving the Neon name off the car entirely, as Dodge had done. Like the Cobalt SS, the SRT4’s turbocharged four-cylinder packed a powerful punch at a record-low price. What gave me hope for the Cobalt SS were fond memories of the 2005 Dodge SRT4 - the first SRT model, based on a compact that was more outdated than the current Cobalt: the disastrous Neon sedan. ![]() Its features and quality were already behind the class leaders when it replaced the Cavalier in 2005, and it hasn’t been significantly redesigned since. To be blunt, the regular Cobalt isn’t our favorite compact car, and it’s far from being one of GM’s strongest products. (For the regular Cobalt, click on the Next Review link above). That’s why I was dubious of the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS and its 260 horsepower, which I tested in its new four-door version. This ploy is time-tested, and GM has pulled it as much as any automaker - possibly more. In a car, a preponderance of power can intoxicate to the point that you don’t realize the car is otherwise lame. To see what’s new for 2010, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years. Little of substance has changed with this year’s model. SS Turbocharged Cobalts have an available power sunroof and limited-slip differential.Editor’s note: This review was written in November 2008 about the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS. Outside, the SS can be identified by halogen fog lamps, chrome exhaust tip, performance suspension, a spoiler and aggressive body moldings.Popular options for LS cars include antilock brakes and traction control, while LT models can be ordered with an upgraded stereo, chrome trim pieces, Bluetooth, cruise control and keyless entry. The SS gets a premium Pioneer 7-speaker stereo, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, titanium-faced sport gauges with an A-pillar-mounted boost gauge and a leather-wrapped shift lever and steering wheel, which features audio and cruise control. The SS Turbocharged Cobalt adds both performance and style. Versions equipped with a manual transmission can be ordered with the XFE package (Xtra Fuel Economy), which features special low-rolling-resistance tires and other drivetrain modifications designed with ultimate fuel economy in mind.LT Cobalts add a center console with armrests, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows and sport cloth seating with driver manual lumbar control. The SS adds traction control, StabiliTrak stability control, antilock brakes as well as a tire-pressure monitor.Cobalts in LS trim come nicely equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, a 4-speaker CD stereo with MP3 playback and XM capability, dual power outlets, 4-way adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 rear split bench seat, tilt steering and a theft deterrent system. The potent engine is mated to a 5-speed manual.Standard safety equipment across the range includes dual-stage front airbags as well as head curtain side-impact airbags, daytime running lights and one year of OnStar Safe and Sound service. SS Turbocharged Cobalts are powered by a 260-hp 2.0L inline-4, which puts out 260 ft-lb at just 2,000 rpm. A 5-speed manual is standard on LS and LT coupes and LS sedans, while a 4-speed automatic is standard on LT sedans and available on the rest. A 155-hp 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 with variable valve timing powers LS and LT cars. For 2010, the Chevrolet Cobalt is available in several trim levels and two body styles ? The LS, LT and SS trims are available in either coupe or sedan models. ![]()
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