The Chevrolet Cobalt is available as either a two-door coupe with four trims (LS, LT, Sport and SS Turbocharged) or a four-door sedan with three trims (LS, LT and Sport). It ranks 17 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. It is a new option package designed to offer improved fuel economy.

The 2008 Cobalt is available with the SS performance package, which includes a 260-hp 2.0L I-4 turbocharged engine with variable valve timing, rated at MPG 22 city, 30 on highway. “Upon introduction, the LS Coupe is equipped with a standard 2.2-liter, I4, 148-horsepower engine that achieves 24-mpg in the city and 33-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The SS Turbocharged Coupe is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 260-horsepower, turbo engine. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.”

The Cobalt design is good enough although many cars of this class are more stylish and distinctive. Some reviews say that the interior isn't spacious enough and offers inadequate seating comfort. The Motor Trend says that its safety level is as good as, if not better than, most of its competition models on the safety-equipment. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. SS versions have unique styling cues, 18-inch tires, specific suspension tuning, and interior trim. For 2008 the Chevrolet Cobalt has added side curtain airbags and an XM satellite radio as standard equipment on all trims.

The Chevrolet Cobalt is quite pleasant to drive, especially the Sport model.