The compact performance category is littered with import models that have had little trouble unseating reigning kings like the Honda Civic Si and Volkswagen GTI. Chevrolet's attempt to unseat them, the Cobalt SS, has been the subject of a major reworking for 2008. Its newfound horsepower numbers and commendable handling limits will make it difficult to resist.
A 260-horsepower, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine powers the SS model. The new powerplant provides plenty of acceleration in more mundane driving and, when called upon to do so, a brisk and confident throttle response makes the SS equally capable on the race track. The only trade-off is a somewhat firmer ride than in lesser Cobalt trims.
For the SS, GM has reworked the suspension with a stiffer spring rate and recalibrated the damping for more body control and better steering feel. As a result, the SS has a more aggressive driving character than less sporting Cobalt models and feels more like a true sports car. The resulting handling limits are impressive and the car is an absolute joy to drive around town and during more spirited driving activities.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all Cobalts. A four-speed automatic is available on LS two-doors and optional on all other trims. The LT model adds antilock brakes and air conditioning to the base equipment list and the 2LT trim level adds a cargo net, cruise control, AM-FM-satellite radio with six speakers and a CD player, 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, and OnStar convenience and emergency services.
