|
|
| (3 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown) |
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| {|border=0 align=right
| | {{Infobox Automobile |
| |-
| | |image = [[Image:1955-chevy-nomad-chevrolet-archives.jpg|right|thumb|250px|1955 Chevrolet Nomad Station Wagon]] |
| |{{Infobox Automobile
| | |name = Chevrolet Nomad |
| |image = [[Image:Cobalttitle.png|250px]] | | |manufacturer = [[Chevrolet]] |
| |name = Chevrolet Cobalt SS | | |parent_company = [[General Motors]] |
| |manufacturer = [[General Motors]] | | |production = 1955-1972 |
| |aka = [[Chevrolet Cobalt]] | | |body_style = 2-door/2-seat [[station wagon]](1955-1961)<br>4-door/5-seat [[station wagon]] (1964-1972) |
| |production = 2005–2010 | | |engine = |
| |class = [[Sport compact]]
| |
| |engine = {{Auto cc|1998}}<BR> [[Supercharger|S/C]] ''[[GM Family II engine#LSJ|LSJ]]'' [[I4 engine|I4]] <BR> {{Auto cc|1998}}<BR> [[Turbocharger|Turbo]] ''[[GM Family II engine#LNF|LNF]]'' I4 <BR> {{Auto cc|2376}}<BR> ''[[GM Ecotec engine#LE5|LE5]]'' I4
| |
| |transmission = 5-speed ''F35'' [[manual transmission|manual]]<br>5-speed ''[[Getrag F23 transmission|Getrag F23]]'' manual<br>4-speed ''[[GM 4T40 transmission#4T45|4T45]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
| |
| |body_style = 2-door [[coupe]] <BR> 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<ref group="nb">The sedan body style was not available for the 2.0 LSJ supercharged engine from 2005-2007. It was not available for the 2008 Cobalt SS turbocharged, but was available for 2009.</ref> | |
| |predecessor = [[Chevrolet Cavalier]] ''Z24/LS Sport''
| |
| |related = [[Chevrolet HHR]]<br>[[Pontiac G5]]<br>[[Saturn Ion]]<br>[[Opel Astra]]
| |
| |assembly = [[Lordstown, Ohio]], [[United States]]<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = Cobalt ranks second in sales
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[The Vindicator]]
| |
| | date = [[2006-01-05]]
| |
| | url = http://www4.vindy.com/content/local_regional/307174131201498.php
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-09-20 }}</ref>
| |
| |platform = [[GM Delta platform]]
| |
| |layout = [[FF layout]] | | |layout = [[FF layout]] |
| |weight = 2,815 lb - 3,001 lb<br>(1,277 kg - 1,361 kg)
| |
| }} | | }} |
| |}
| |
|
| |
|
| The '''Chevrolet Cobalt SS''' is a [[sport compact]] high performance version of the [[Chevrolet Cobalt]], featuring three [[Straight-4|inline-4]] [[GM Family II engine#Ecotec|Ecotec]] engines, built on the [[General Motors]] [[GM Delta platform|Delta platform]]. The car debuted with a {{convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} [[supercharger|supercharged]] 2.0 L engine in late 2004, the only [[transaxle|transmission]] option being the F35 [[Manual transmission|manual]] of [[General Motors|GM Europe]]. The engine had been first introduced one model year prior on the [[Saturn Ion|Saturn Ion Red Line]]. For 2006, a [[naturally-aspirated engine|naturally-aspirated]] Cobalt SS with both automatic and manual transmission options was one of three Delta cars to carry GM's new 2.4 L,{{convert|171|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} engine. A second 2.0 L engine exclusively mated to the F35, with power upped to {{convert|260|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} by way of a [[Turbocharger|turbocharger]], revived the Cobalt SS in the second quarter of 2008 after a brief hiatus ''([[Chevrolet Cobalt SS#External links|See timeline]])''. | | The '''Chevrolet Nomad''' was a [[station wagon]] model produced by the [[Chevrolet]] Division of [[General Motors]]. The Nomad is best remembered in its two-door 1955-57 form, and was considered a [[halo vehicle|halo model]] during its three-year production as a two-door station wagon. |
|
| |
|
| The powertrain of the Cobalt SS has received generally positive reviews, especially the turbocharged version, but the car has been criticized for poor interior quality and exterior styling that is too reminiscent of its predecessor, the [[Chevrolet Cavalier]].<ref name = bw>{{cite press release
| | ==1955-57== |
| | title = 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged
| | The two-door Nomad differed from other station wagons of the era by having unique styling more reminiscent of a hardtop than of a standard station wagon. Chevrolet shared this body with its sister [[Pontiac]], which marketed their version as the [[Pontiac Safari]]. |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[BusinessWeek]]
| |
| | date = [[2005-12-28]]
| |
| | url = http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/dec2005/bw20051228_934922.htm?campaign_id=search
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> The [[Super Sport]] moniker had not been used on the Cavalier, a compact built on the widely used and now obsolete [[GM J platform|J platform]]. Though the car was produced until 2005, it saw its most powerful trim, the Z24 featuring a 2.4 L {{convert|150|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} engine, cancelled in 2002 as GM prepared to phase out the platform.<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
| |
| | publisher = Consumer Guide Automotive
| |
| | date = [[2005-12-28]]
| |
| | url = http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2002-chevrolet-cavalier.htm
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> Chevrolet will end production of the Cobalt within a few years and replace it with the European-developed [[Chevrolet Cruze|Cruze]] after producing the two simultaneously for the North American market, but a high performance version to directly replace the Cobalt SS has not yet been announced, nor any possible powertrains.<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = GM announces $350 million for Lordstown plant to bulid Chevy Cruze
| |
| | publisher = [[Autoblog]]
| |
| | date = [[2008-08-21]]
| |
| | url = http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/gm-announces-350-million-for-lordstown-plant-to-bulid-chevy-cru/
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-30 }}</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Model details==
| | The Nomad's unique design had its roots in a [[Motorama|General Motors Motorama]] show car of the same name that was based on the [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvette]]. The Concept was introduced at the GM Motorama in 1954 as one of Head Stylist, Harley Earl's "dream cars". |
| ===Overview===
| |
| The first Cobalt SS was launched in 2004 as a 2005 model with a new powertrain that had debuted one year earlier on the [[Saturn Ion|Saturn ION Red Line]]. It was available as a Supercharged coupe only.<ref>{{cite press release | |
| | title = Chevrolet Hopes to Draw Young Consumers with New Fast, Powerful Car.
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[The Vindicator]]
| |
| | date = [[2004-04-01]]
| |
| | url = http://www4.vindy.com/content/local_regional/307174131201498.php
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
| The [[naturally-aspirated engine|naturally-aspirated]] 2.4 L [[GM Family II engine#LE5|LE5]] engine was the next SS to launch in late 2005 as a 2006 model.<ref name = six/> However in late 2007, at the same time the announcement cancelling the SS Supercharged was made, GM also announced that the 2.4 L would be renamed "Cobalt Sport", but would be identical to the former SS vehicle. Like the supercharged car, the 2.0 L [[GM Family II engine#LNF|LNF]] turbocharged Cobalt launched in the second quarter of 2008 was initially available only as a coupe until a sedan option was offered for the 2009 model year. For its run from 2006-2008, the 2.4 L Cobalt was available as both a coupe and sedan.<ref name = ed8>{{cite web | |
| | title = 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Review
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[Edmunds.com]]
| |
| | date = 2007
| |
| | url = http://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/cobalt/2008/review.html/2008_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_first_drive_review
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| All three models of the Cobalt SS feature four wheel, [[Anti-lock braking system|anti-lock]] [[disc brake]]s. Compared to the base Cobalt, the SS has lower front and rear fascias for a more aggressive look with integrated foglamps, side rocker moldings, interior accents, and a chrome exhaust tip. Exclusive to the 2.0 L Cobalt are a titanium-faced sport analogue cluster with a 160 mph (260 km/h) [[speedometer]], an A-pillar mounted boost gauge, reclining front bucket seats with two-tone leather-appointed seating surfaces, vertical adjusting head restraints and driver-side lumbar and height adjusters, and a sport-tuned F35 suspension with a 24 mm front stabilizer bar and 22 mm rear stabilizer bar.<ref name = five>{{cite press release
| | GM approved production of the vehicle if the design could be transferred to its standard model, because top GM brass felt that they could sell more models if it were attached to the popular [[Chevrolet Bel Air|Bel Air]] model. |
| | title =
| |
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt: An all-new premium compact car
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = General Motors
| |
| | date =
| |
| | url = http://media.gm.com/ca/gm/en/products/chevrolet/archives/2005Cobalt.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| ===SS Supercharged===
| | While considered to be a milestone vehicle design, General Motors discontinued the original Nomad at the end of the 1957 model year due to low sales and the introduction of a new body for 1958. |
| Available as a coupe only, the SS Supercharged featured the 2.0 L [[GM Family II engine#LSJ|LSJ]] Ecotec engine with an [[Eaton Corporation|Eaton]] M62 [[Roots type supercharger]] and air-to-liquid [[intercooler]].<ref name = bw/> The engine makes {{convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5600 rpm and {{Auto ft·lbf|200}} at 4400 rpm.<ref name = five/> 18-inch broad-spoke wheels with P215/45R18 all-season [[Pirelli]] tires are standard. Optional for the LSJ was a performance package coded G85 that added [[Recaro]] bucket seats and a [[limited slip differential]] (LSD). The G85 option continues in the LNF Cobalt, but adds only the LSD. The car has become notable for a high profile spoiler that was standard in 2005, but optional from 2007 when a lower profile spoiler used on all other Cobalt coupes became an option.<ref name = seven>{{cite press release || title = 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt || publisher = General Motors || date = || url = http://media.gm.com/ca/gm/en/products/chevrolet/archives/7006Cobalt.html || accessdate = 2008-10-28}}</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| [[Image:Silvercobaltss.png|thumb|left|Supercharged coupe with standard high profile decklid spoiler]] | | ==1958-61== |
| | [[Image:1960 Chevrolet Nomad.jpg|thumb|right|250px|1960 Chevrolet Nomad Station Wagon]] |
| | For the 1958 model year, Chevrolet moved the Nomad name to its top-line four-door station wagon. Chevrolet continued to use the Nomad name until the end of the 1961 model year, when all Chevrolet station wagons adopted the names of the regular sedan models. |
|
| |
|
| GM offers dealer-installed performance upgrade packages called "stage kits" that are covered by factory warranty.<ref>{{cite press release
| | ==1964-72== |
| | title = Super boosted Chevys; supercharger kits push Cobalt to next stage
| | [[Image:1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Nomad.jpg|thumb|right|250px|1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Nomad Station Wagon]] |
| | publisher = [[AutoWeek]]
| | The 1964 and 1965 [[model year|model years]] brought a revival of sorts for original 1955-1957 Nomad when Chevrolet produced a two-door mid-sized [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle 300]] station wagon cast in a similar vein. The Nomad name was not used for these wagons, but between 1968 and 1972 the name was applied to the lowest-priced Chevelle four-door station wagon model. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the name returned again on a trim package for the full size [[Chevrolet Van]]. |
| | date = 2005-09-05
| |
| | url = http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-135935955.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-28 }}</ref>
| |
| The Stage 1 kit consists of new fuel injectors and a reprogram of the [[Engine control unit|ECU]], and yields up to a {{convert|30|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} improvement.<ref name = stg>{{cite press release | |
| | title = 2.0L Ecotec gets a boost from GM Performance Parts' Stage Kits
| |
| | publisher = General Motors
| |
| | date = 2006-04-06
| |
| | url = http://media.gm.com/servlet/GatewayServlet?target=http://image.emerald.gm.com/gmnews/viewmonthlyreleasedetail.do?domain=74&docid=24896
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-28 }}</ref> The Stage 2 kit consists of new fuel injectors and the same reprogram with a smaller serpentine belt and pulley for the supercharger, producing a {{Convert|47|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} improvement and {{Auto lbft|30}} of torque. Both stage 1 and 2 kits increase the engine redline to 7,000 rpm.<ref name = stg/> The Stage 3 kit consists of a smaller, {{Auto mm|76|1}} supercharger pulley, a 2-pass intercooler end plate and a customizable replacement ECU.<ref name = tb>{{cite web
| |
| | title = Cobalt SS Stage 3 Q&A
| |
| | publisher = Tunersource.gmblogs.com
| |
| | url = http://tunersource.gmblogs.com/Racer-Tech/ECOtec-Tech-Topics/Stage-3-QA.pdf
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-28 }}</ref> The Stage 3 ECU allows for the use of a 50-shot of nitrous, 100 octane fuel and an adjustable redline from 6,750 to 8,000 rpm. Stage 3 produces {{convert|248|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} using 93 octane fuel, up to {{convert|260|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} using 100 octane fuel, and much higher power with nitrous. Stage 3 is for track use only, and to emphasize this, air conditioning is disabled with the Stage 3 ECU.<ref name = tb/>
| |
|
| |
|
| A problem frequently encountered with the car, due to a combination of its high torque, front drive, and short first gear is wheel hop, [[wheelspin]] and a general lack of traction.<ref>{{cite web
| | == Concept cars == |
| | last = Gardner
| | There have been two Nomad concept cars. The first one from 1999 was based on the F-body ([[Camaro]]) and was V8 powered.<ref>"[http://www.seriouswheels.com/cars/top-1999-Chevrolet-Nomad-Concept.htm 1999 Chevrolet Nomad Concept]." GM Press Release (on ''seriouswheels.com''), 1999.</ref> The second concept presented in 2004 was based on the [[GM Kappa platform]], and highly resembled the original 1954 Corvette-based Nomad showcar.<ref>"[http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/040104-2.htm Chevy Nomad concept recalls 1954 Nomad]." Canadian Driver, 4 January 2004.</ref><ref>"[http://www.madle.org/egmnomad.htm Chevrolet Nomad (2004)]." ''Maddle,'' 7 March 2004.</ref> |
| | first = Andrew
| |
| | title = Cobalt SS Supercharged Provides Fantastic Four-Banger Fun
| |
| | publisher = Motorsportscenter.com
| |
| | date = [[2006-03-21]]
| |
| | url = http://www.motorsportscenter.com/printer_706.shtml
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-14 }}</ref> The [[GM Performance Division]] later tried to rectify these problems in the turbocharged car by providing wider, stickier tires and stronger [[axle]]s.<ref name = ab/>
| |
|
| |
|
| ===SS Turbocharged=== | | ==References== |
| [[Image:Cobaltinterior.png|thumb|2009 Cobalt SS turbocharged coupe, clockwise from top left: reconfigurable performance display (RPD) showing boost pressure in [[pounds per square inch|PSI]]; instrument panel and Driver's Information Center (DIC); [[head unit]] with [[XM Satellite Radio]]; red/ebony interior (one of three interior color options); RPD showing spark advance.]]
| |
| The LSJ engine did not meet emissions requirements for the 2008 model year, and General Motors' contract with Eaton had expired.<ref name = cd>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Johnson
| |
| | first = Erik
| |
| | title = 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS - First Drive Review
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[Car and Driver]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/sport_compacts/2008_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_first_drive_review
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref><ref name = ed8/> The non-supercharged 2.4 L Cobalt SS also lost its Super Sport designation for the 2008 model year and was renamed "Sport". However, in fall 2007, a more powerful Cobalt SS was announced for the second quarter of 2008.<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = Local GM plant begins work on new Cobalt SS
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = [[The Vindicator]]
| |
| | date = 2008-01-19
| |
| | url = http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/jan/19/local-gm-plant-begins-work-on-new-cobalt-ss/
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> The car would be equipped with the 2.0 L, turbocharged, [[Gasoline direct injection|direct injected]], [[Variable valve timing|VVT]], [[GM Family II engine#LNF|LNF]] Ecotec engine, making {{convert|260|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5300 rpm and {{Auto lbft|260}} at 2000 rpm, and remain mated to the F35 5-speed manual transmission.<ref name = eight>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = Powertrain enhancements bring segment-leading fuel economy and new Cobalt SS sedan debuts
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = General Motors
| |
| | date =
| |
| | url = http://media.gm.com/ca/gm/en/products/VehiclesEng/e9Cobalt_PIG.htm
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> The engine had been introduced in a [[Automobile layout|rear wheel drive]] application for the 2007 [[GM Kappa platform]], which includes the [[Saturn Sky]], [[Pontiac Solstice]], and [[Opel GT]].<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = 2007 Pontiac Solstice
| |
| | publisher = General Motors
| |
| | date =
| |
| | url = http://media.gm.com/ca/gm/en/products/pontiac/archives/2007Solstice.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
| | |
| Also new for the 2008 SS were SS-embroidered sport seats with suede-like UltraLux inserts, several new exterior colors, and wider {{convert|18|in|mm|adj=on}} forged, split-spoke wheels with P225/40R18 [[Continental AG]] tires, reminiscent of those offered for the [[Chevrolet Corvette C6]].<ref name = ab>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Nunez
| |
| | first = Alex
| |
| | title = Officially Official: 2008 Chevy Cobalt SS Turbo with 260 HP bows at SEMA
| |
| | publisher = [[Autoblog]]
| |
| | date = 2007-10-27
| |
| | url = http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/28/officially-official-2008-chevy-cobalt-ss-bows-at-sema/
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> The car's electronics are also new, and along with greater assist in poor traction conditions, add a "no-lift-shift" feature which allows the driver to maintain turbocharger boost during upshifts. During a no-lift-shift, the driver shifts normally by depressing the clutch, but the accelerator pedal is held [[Wide open throttle|wide open]].<ref name = ab/> Also new is "launch control", which feathers the throttle at roughly 4800 rpm until engagement of the clutch, allowing more consistent launches in competitive situations. To use the feature the driver presses twice on the traction control button which first turns off traction control, and then notifies the driver through the Driver's Information Center that the launch control of Competitive Mode has been enabled. However, turbocharged Cobalt owners have found that better times can be achieved while racing when the car is manually launched. These features help propel the car from 0 to {{convert|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in a class-leading 5.5 seconds, and a quarter mile time of 13.9 seconds at {{convert|102.5|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref name = 08mt>
| |
| {{cite web
| |
| | last = Kiino
| |
| | first = Ron
| |
| | title = Quick Test: 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS
| |
| | publisher = [[Motor Trend]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupes/112_0803_2008_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_first_drive/index.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
| | |
| New for 2009 is the aforementioned four-door sedan option, as well as an optional "reconfigurable performance display" (RPD) for the coupe only.<ref name = gz>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Gale
| |
| | first = Zach
| |
| | title = GM's Reconfigurable Performance Display an option for '09 Cobalt SS and HHR SS
| |
| | publisher = [[Motor Trend]]
| |
| | date = 2008-08-26
| |
| | url = http://wot.motortrend.com/6272668/technology/gms-reconfigurable-performance-display-an-option-for-09-cobalt-ss-and-hhr-ss/index.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-13 }}</ref> The $295 option replaces the boost gauge in the A-pillar, and allows the driver manipulation of traction control, stability control, and the engagement of Competition Mode, as well as well as information regarding the car's engine torque and horsepower, g-force, boost, wideband air fuel ratio, barometric pressure, temperature, and battery voltage.<ref name = gz/>
| |
| | |
| [[Image:Cobaltwhite24.png|thumb|left|2.4 L Cobalt SS coupe, standard are 17 x {{convert|7|in|mm|adj=on}} broad spoke polished wheels with an identical design to the 18 x {{convert|7|in|mm|adj=on}} wheels on the SS Supercharged coupe]]
| |
| ===SS Naturally-aspirated===
| |
| Chevrolet introduced a naturally-aspirated Cobalt SS in the fall of 2005, as a 2006 model available as both a coupe and sedan. It featured the 2.4 L [[GM Family II engine#LE5|LE5]] Ecotec engine with [[variable valve timing]], making {{convert|171|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5,600 rpm and {{Auto ft·lbf|163}} at 5000 rpm, later upped to {{Auto ft·lbf|167}} at 4500 rpm. The LE5 engine was new for 2006 and was introduced on both the FWD Delta platform and RWD [[GM Kappa platform|Kappa platform]]. For the 2006 and 2007 model years the car was called SS, or "1SS", but was replaced with the moniker "Cobalt Sport" for 2008 with the anticipated introduction of the turbocharged super sport car later on in the model year.<ref name = ed8/> For the first time, a 4-speed automatic transmission was offered, the [[GM 4T40 transmission|4T45]]. The 5-speed manual is also different from the Cobalt SS Supercharged, it is the [[Getrag F23 transmission]] with different ratios that is offered for the 2.2 L [[GM Family II engine#L61|L61]] engine in the Cobalt LS and LT.<ref name = six>{{cite press release
| |
| | title =
| |
| 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
| |
| | work =
| |
| | publisher = General Motors
| |
| | date =
| |
| | url = http://media.gm.com/ca/gm/en/products/chevrolet/archives/2006Cobalt.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-18 }}</ref>
| |
| | |
| Other changes over the supercharged car are notable but not drastic; 17-inch broad-spoke wheels with narrower P205/50R17 all-season [[Pirelli]] tires are standard, as is the low profile spoiler. 2.4 L and 2.2 L Sport Package Cobalts have a 140 mph (220 km/h) speedometer) with optional white face gauges. The car rides on the FE3 suspension, superior and more sport-tuned to that of base Cobalts but less refined than the FE5 on the supercharged and turbocharged cars. Brakes are identical to the SS Supercharged.<ref name = six/> The front and rear bumpers are the same, but the front lacks a lip accessory and the bottom of the rear fascia is slightly different.<ref name = six/> With the negligible exception of exterior styling and some interior trims, the vehicle is identical to the [[Pontiac G5|Pontiac G5 GT]].<ref>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Gold
| |
| | first = Aaron
| |
| | title = 2007 Pontiac G5 GT Test Drive
| |
| | publisher = [[About.com]]
| |
| | date = 2007
| |
| | url = http://cars.about.com/od/pontiac/fr/ag_07PontiacG5.htm
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-28 }}</ref>
| |
| | |
| {{Cobalt SS specs}}
| |
| | |
| ==Reception==
| |
| [[Image:CobaltYellowSS.png|thumb|Cobalt SS Supercharged coupe]]
| |
| | |
| Reviews of the supercharged Cobalt SS have been generally positive. While critics had harsh words for the Cavalier,<ref name = as05>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Straub
| |
| | first = Alexandra
| |
| | title = 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Road Test
| |
| | publisher = Auto123.com
| |
| | date = 2005-09-15
| |
| | url = http://www.auto123.com/en/car-reviews/new/2005-chevrolet-cobalt-ss-road-test?artid=48865
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> the supercharged Cobalt was seen as an infinitely superior vehicle and a worthy entry into the tuner market in 2004. However, the general fit and finish was poor, and power levels were not up to par with other competitors. Journalist Thom Blackett said, "When compared with more contemporary cars including the [[Dodge SRT-4|Dodge Neon SRT-4]] and the [[Subaru Impreza WRX|Subaru WRX]], that SS badge seems to lose some of its luster."<ref>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Blackett
| |
| | first = Thom
| |
| | title = Chevy is anything but cavalier with its new supercharged coupe
| |
| | publisher = CarSmart.com
| |
| | date = 2005
| |
| | url = http://www.carsmart.com/content/shared/articles/templates/index.cfm/article_id_int/924
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> The F35 transmission has also been deemed inferior to that in the newest of generation of [[Honda]]'s [[Honda Civic Si|Civic Si]].<ref name = ab/> Critics also disliked the heavy wheels which negatively affected handling, as well as the spoiler which obstructed rearward visibility.<ref name = as05/> Speaking of the high profile aero wing, automotive journalist Alexandra Straub said, "the deck-lid spoiler was directly in my line-of-sight when looking out of the rearview mirror. It's almost like it cut everything in half."<ref name = as05/> Some Cobalt SS owners have traded spoilers with lower trim owners to obtain a less aggressive look, or traded the entire trunklid with Cobalt LS owners, for whom a rear spoiler is merely optional.<ref name = five/> The naturally-aspirated Cobalt SS has been seen as an improvement over the base models with its slightly more potent 2.4 L engine,<ref name = ed8/> but notably inferior to the supercharged car.<ref>{{cite web
| |
| | title = 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Road Test
| |
| | publisher = Automobile.com
| |
| | date = 2006
| |
| | url = http://car-reviews.automobile.com/Chevrolet/review/2007-chevrolet-cobalt-ss-supercharged-road-test/3150/1
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-27 }}</ref>
| |
| [[Image:Sepiacobalt.png|thumb|left|Turbocharged coupe with optional high profile decklid spoiler]]
| |
| | |
| The 2008 turbocharged Cobalt SS has received rave reviews. John Neff of Autoblog said, "The GM Performance Division completely reworked the Cobalt SS for 2008, swapping in a more powerful turbocharged engine, upgrading the rest of the mechanicals, and tweaking the entire package on the world's most demanding race tracks, including the famed Nürburgring in Germany. The result is – and we're not kidding here – the most impressive performance car to wear a bow-tie badge on sale today." Journalists were impressed with the performance of the car in relation to the price; Neff added that the "2009 Cobalt SS Turbo is freakishly good at going fast and the best bang-for-the-buck value below $30,000."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/13/in-the-autobog-garage-2009-chevy-cobalt-ss-turbo/|title=In the Autobog Garage: 2009 Chevy Cobalt SS Turbo production|accessdate=2008-10-15|last=Neff|first=John|date=2008-10-13|format=HTML|publisher=[[Autoblog]]|language=English|quote=''The result is – and we're not kidding here – the most impressive performance car to wear a bow-tie badge on sale today.''}}</ref> Ron Kiino of [[Motor Trend]] said, "at only $22,995, the SS could stand for Super Steal."<ref name = 08mt/> The [[Suggested retail price|MSRP]] was raised to $24,095 for the 2009 model year.
| |
| [[Image:CobaltBrembo.png|thumb|Standard on the turbocharged coupe are 18 x {{convert|7.5|in|mm|adj=on}} wheels with P225/40R18 [[Continental AG]] ContiSportContact 2 tires, and [[Brembo]] fixed-caliper front disc brakes.]]
| |
| The [[Nürburgring]]-tuned suspension gives the SS some of the best handling characteristics of any General Motors front wheel drive vehicle,<ref name = cd/> and the suspension is stiffer and more refined than the supercharged car. Since the interior is hardly changed other than the seats, those quibbles remain. Of the interior in the turbocharged sedan, [[Car and Driver]] said it "is constructed primarily of plastics cheap enough to be rejected from a Chinese toy factory; the [[Tata Nano]] probably has a fancier parking-brake lever."<ref>{{cite web
| |
| | last = Gall
| |
| | first = Jared
| |
| | title = 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Sedan - Short Take Road Test
| |
| | publisher = [[Car and Driver]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/sport_compacts/2009_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_sedan_short_take_road_test
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-11-12 }}</ref> The new Cobalt was the winner in its price class (under $30,000) of Car and Driver's 2008 Lightning Lap competition at [[Virginia International Raceway]], ousting several cars in the $30,000-$60,000 class.<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = LL1: 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS; The Lightning Lap, 2008
| |
| | publisher = [[Car and Driver]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/the_lightning_lap_2008_feature+page-2.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> When compared with the Honda Civic Si, Car and Driver said, "rife as the Cobalt’s [interior] is with cheap plastics, it’s still easier on some of our eyes than Honda’s postmodern mélange," and "the Civic Si starts about $1200 less than the Cobalt SS, but that money would have to go toward some sort of aftermarket steroids if the Civic Si is to keep pace with the new Cobalt SS."<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = 2008 Honda Civic Si
| |
| | publisher = [[Car and Driver]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/2008_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_faces_four_forced_induction_fours_and_a_high_rpm_honda_feature+page-3.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref> When compared to the similarly powered and turbocharged 2008 [[Dodge Caliber|Dodge Caliber SRT-4]], they said, "What these cars don’t share is torque steer, something that makes the Caliber SRT4 nearly undrivable at full tilt but is pretty well eliminated by suspension and power-steering tuning in the Cobalt SS. And the Dodge features neither launch control nor no-lift shifting."<ref>{{cite press release
| |
| | title = 2008 Dodge Caliber SRT4
| |
| | publisher = [[Car and Driver]]
| |
| | date = 2008
| |
| | url = http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/2008_chevrolet_cobalt_ss_faces_four_forced_induction_fours_and_a_high_rpm_honda_feature+page-5.html
| |
| | accessdate = 2008-10-10 }}</ref>
| |
| | |
| ==See also==
| |
| *[[Chevrolet Cobalt]]
| |
| *[[GM Performance Division]]
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Notes==
| |
| <references group="nb" />
| |
|
| |
| ==References==
| |
| {{reflist|2}}
| |
|
| |
|
| ==External links==
| | <references/> |
| *[http://www.chevrolet.com/cobalt/ Official American site]
| |
| *[http://www.gm.ca/gm/english/vehicles/chevrolet/cobalt/overview Official Canadian site]
| |
|
| |
|
| {{GM Delta sport compacts timeline}} | | ==Further reading== |
| | * {{cite book | author = Gunnell, John, Editor | title = The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946-1975 | publisher = Krause Publications | year = 1987 | isbn = 0-87341-096-3}} |
| | * {{cite book | author = Dammann, George H. | title = 75 Years of Chevrolet | publisher = Motorbooks International(Crestline Series)| year = 1986 | isbn = 0-87938-692-4}} |
| | *"[http://www.oldride.com/library/chevrolet_nomad.html Chevrolet Nomad]." Pictures and Information on ''oldride.com.'' |
|
| |
|
| {{Chevrolet}} | | {{Early Chevrolet cars}} |
|
| |
|
| [[Category:Chevrolet vehicles|Cobalt SS]] | | [[Category:Chevrolet vehicles|Nomad]] |
| [[Category:Front wheel drive sports cars]] | | [[Category:Chevrolet concept vehicles|Nomad]] |
| [[Category:Sport compact cars]] | | [[Category:Full-size vehicles]] |
| [[Category:Front wheel drive vehicles]] | | [[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]] |
| [[Category:Coupes]] | | [[Category:Station wagons]] |
| [[Category:Sedans]] | | [[Category:1950s automobiles]] |
| [[Category:2000s automobiles]] | | [[Category:1960s automobiles]] |
| [[Category:Vehicles introduced in 2004]] | | [[Category:Vans]] |
| [[Category:Goods manufactured in the United States]] | | [[Category:Goods manufactured in the United States]] |
