What's New for the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt?
Chevrolet revises the 2006 Cobalt lineup, ditching the Base trim in favor of LS, LT sedan, and a new premium LTZ version (sedan only) for the volume models. Also new this year are SS coupes and SS sedans with a 171-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood, special exterior trim, 17-inch wheels, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, and performance suspension tuning. The hot SS Supercharged coupe from last year returns for 2006. Majestic Amethyst and Laser Blue are the new colors this year.

Advantages of the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt:

• Peppy powertrains
• Optional side-curtain airbags
• Available traction control
• Impressive build quality
• Comfortable front seats

Objections to the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt:

• Cramped back seat
• Rear beam axle
• Rear drum brakes
• Electric by-wire steering system

Editor's Advice:
Our initial impressions of the Chevrolet Cobalt are favorable. Styling is spot on; interior design and ergonomics are well executed; the SS Supercharged model sounds promising in terms of performance; refinement and competence of the mechanical package are up to the standards of the class; and front seat comfort levels are excellent. Even without a rebate, the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should have little trouble luring compact car shoppers to Chevy showrooms.