Nothing major for Cobalt in 2007, apart from the usual trim and option tweaks, plus modest power increases. The base 2.2-litre "four" now makes 148 hp, and the uplevel 2.4 is rated at 173. The LS, LT and LTZ employ the 2.2-litre engine, while the 2.4 is exclusive to the sportier SS. A seamless 4-speed automatic transmission is standard on LTZ, and optional on the others, which have a standard 5-speed manual. Based on a GM-of-Europe platform, Cobalt offers solid ride and handling, numerous standard or optional features (including heated leather seats, power sunroof, OnStar, trip computer), and a large trunk. Rear-seat legroom is meagre, however, and fuel economy is mediocre by compact standards.

Solid value, strong engines, well equipped

Rather thirsty, tight back seat