2008 Chevrolet Cobalt LS 2.2 Ecotec
Summary:
One of the most affordable/reliable cars on the market
Faults:
My blinker went out after about 2,000 miles. My dealer fixed it in a matter of minutes. No biggie.
General Comments:
I don't want to come off too strong and make it seem like this car is the best one in the world, but I used to drive a 1992 Honda Accord with more than 240,000 miles on it, so upgrading to a 2008 Chevy Cobalt makes me feel like I'm driving a Bentley. ;)
I bought the car late June 2008 and I've had it for about 4 months. I have no complaints whatsoever. It performs fantastic for a 2.2L engine and it gets great gas mileage (32+ avg, 28- with AC on). The Cobalt uses an Ecotec engine, so I don't have to worry about timing belt issues (there's isn't one).
I have the basic model, so I settled for no extras, but I must admit... power locks and windows would be nice. The LT model costs $2,600 more and it would have increased my monthly payment with $80. Some of you might think that's nothing, but I'm a college student so I try to squeeze every dollar.
The exterior is pretty sexy. I have a Coupe with the limited edition Imperial Blue metallic paint and it looks stellar when the light hits it. The head and brake lights are very vivid, so don't worry about visibility issues.
The interior is even sexier. The steering wheel feels great and seats are comfortable. The stereo (which is great by the way) console looks cool and it's very easy to get used to. I feel sorry for anyone that has to sit in the back though. I'm 6'4" and my head literally touches the roof.
The Cobalt is one of the most affordable cars on the market right now. Sure, you could get a little Toyota Echo or a Chevy Aveo, but they're pretty crappy. Trust me, I test drove both of them. I bought the Cobalt for $15K with an instant $2K rebate (which I used as a down payment) and then I put down another $2K which I had saved up. My monthly payment is $272 on the 5 year plan. Not bad.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 18th October, 2008
19th Oct 2008, 09:08
I have a 2007 Cobalt LS with the 5 speed and I think you posted a good review of the car. The power windows and locks are nice to have, but I don't miss them after 9,000 miles with mine. I do still wish it had cruise control when I take a trip.
I haven't had any issues other than the trunk lock key slot's rubber seal coming loose, and I did that by scrubbing too hard with a brush to remove some excess goop that had collected in the lock after I polished the car with Turtle Wax paste. I've encountered no other issues at all, despite watching my car like a hawk in order to catch any problems while the warranty is in effect!
I'm still on my second oil change according to my oil life monitor, with about 40% life left from an oil change at 5,000 miles or so. The first one was at 500 miles.
Good luck with your Cobalt!