Super Street , March 2005 - Page 74
"You may be suprised to hear this, but Chevy's latest compact car entry, the Cobalt SS, could be one of the company's hottest releases to date. A first impression drive left us with a huge grin, due in part to a powerful, supercharged engine and a more than satisfying suspension, a big bonus considering this all comes stock. Call it an aggressive move on Chevy's part--attacking a market blessed with plenty of performance-oriented platforms such as Acura's RSX Type S or Scion's tC but the Cobalt's timing couldn't have been more perfect.
Though we gave you a sneak preivew in our July '04 issue (check 'Replacement Killer" for a complete technical overview), we recently got the chance to test a preproduction model that's about as close to the finalized product as you'll be seeing at your local dealer. As the premium model for the Cobalt line, the SS Supercharged comes with a 2.0L Ecotec engine capable of delivering 205hp and 200lb-ft of torque, a fact that became extremely obvious after beginning the day's drive. When fired up, a deep, thunderous growl ensues, and the shifter set to First gear, the power comes instantaneously when you release the clutch. With a quick jaunt down a few back roads of Santa Barbara, California's wine country, the SS felt superb, as its Eaton M62 Roots-type blowe delivered a smooth, linear boost of force for a total of 12psi. The 5-speed manual Fgp (F35) transmission matches the supercharged engine perfectly, spacing its gears evenly and allowing the engine to remain in it's "zone" between shifts. Shifting was amazing fluid, a quality most American automobiles seem to lack. The powertrain alone places the Cobalt SS at the top of our must drive list.
Another area where the Cobalt SS shines is its supension. In place of the base model's suspension are aluminum L-shaped front control arms, finely tuned sport struts, and beefy anti-sway bars on the front (24mm) and rear (22mm) end. Coupled with an 18-inch wheel package and solid braking, you'd be hardpressed to find a domestic vehicle that offers this much performance at such an affordable cost.
Looks-wise, the Cobalt has a clean style and is almost an amalgamation of trends we've seen over the years, including its rear wing, taillight configuration, and aggresive body lines. In fact, the SS attracted so much attention on the ride and drive that we'd be suprised if you didnt think it looked good. Job well done, Chevy".
"You may be suprised to hear this, but Chevy's latest compact car entry, the Cobalt SS, could be one of the company's hottest releases to date. A first impression drive left us with a huge grin, due in part to a powerful, supercharged engine and a more than satisfying suspension, a big bonus considering this all comes stock. Call it an aggressive move on Chevy's part--attacking a market blessed with plenty of performance-oriented platforms such as Acura's RSX Type S or Scion's tC but the Cobalt's timing couldn't have been more perfect.
Though we gave you a sneak preivew in our July '04 issue (check 'Replacement Killer" for a complete technical overview), we recently got the chance to test a preproduction model that's about as close to the finalized product as you'll be seeing at your local dealer. As the premium model for the Cobalt line, the SS Supercharged comes with a 2.0L Ecotec engine capable of delivering 205hp and 200lb-ft of torque, a fact that became extremely obvious after beginning the day's drive. When fired up, a deep, thunderous growl ensues, and the shifter set to First gear, the power comes instantaneously when you release the clutch. With a quick jaunt down a few back roads of Santa Barbara, California's wine country, the SS felt superb, as its Eaton M62 Roots-type blowe delivered a smooth, linear boost of force for a total of 12psi. The 5-speed manual Fgp (F35) transmission matches the supercharged engine perfectly, spacing its gears evenly and allowing the engine to remain in it's "zone" between shifts. Shifting was amazing fluid, a quality most American automobiles seem to lack. The powertrain alone places the Cobalt SS at the top of our must drive list.
Another area where the Cobalt SS shines is its supension. In place of the base model's suspension are aluminum L-shaped front control arms, finely tuned sport struts, and beefy anti-sway bars on the front (24mm) and rear (22mm) end. Coupled with an 18-inch wheel package and solid braking, you'd be hardpressed to find a domestic vehicle that offers this much performance at such an affordable cost.
Looks-wise, the Cobalt has a clean style and is almost an amalgamation of trends we've seen over the years, including its rear wing, taillight configuration, and aggresive body lines. In fact, the SS attracted so much attention on the ride and drive that we'd be suprised if you didnt think it looked good. Job well done, Chevy".
