2008 Chevrolet Cobalt LT FWD Manual

Model Highlights

Introduced in 2005 as a replacement for the Chevrolet Cavalier, the 2008 Cobalt is in every way a more rewarding car to drive. Based on GM's Delta platform, which also underpins the Saturn Ion, the Cobalt adds a lot of refinements over its Saturn counterpart in both powertrain and chassis tuning. With two engine choices and three trim levels for each of two body styles, the Cobalt also offers buyers a lot of room for personalization. The standard engine for both the coupe and sedan is a 148-horsepower, 2.2L Ecotec four-cylinder. Choosing the Sport version of either model gets you a 171-horsepower bored-and-stroked 2.4L Ecotec with variable cam timing. Along with impressive performance, you also get a modified sport suspension, and wide 50-series tires on 17-inch wheels. It also comes with four-wheel disc brakes, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, and a large rear spoiler. Optional are leather front bucket seats. Most buyers are more likely to choose the less performance-oriented versions, but the Cobalt doesn't disappointment here either. The base LS models have a fair amount of standard equipment, including air conditioning with cabin filter, an AM/FM/CD player with an MP3 input jack, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a tachometer, and a rear 60/40 split bench seat with a trunk pass-through Opting for the LT trim can add body color fascias, power windows, mirrors and door locks, and an upgraded stereo. The top-of-the line Sport trim adds fog lamps, and traction control and still comes in just shy of $20,000.