Engine Cars

The compact Cobalt family competes in a tough segment, pitted against bestsellers like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Offered in three trim levels for 2010 (the four-door SS has been dropped), the Cobalt’s strengths are a solid structure, lots of features, and good mileage.

Highs

Sturdy architecture, all-day seat comfort, Bluetooth phone connectivity, radios with iPod-compatible USB ports.

Lows

Forgettable styling, so-so power, asthmatic exhaust note, four-speed automatic.

Whats New

 Introduced for 2005; SS sedan dropped, trim tweaks.

Behind The Wheel

The Cobalt’s unibody is stiffer than many, yielding surprisingly good handling and a pleasant ride. Avoid the automatic option.