2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Washington DC

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The car you see here may look a lot like the familiar Chevrolet Cavalier. The face is more or less the same, as are the proportions. But don't be fooled; the 2006 Chevy Cobalt really is more than just a new name on an old body.

With the introduction of the subcompact Aveo, the Cobalt moves slightly upmarket, taking up a "premium compact" position in the lineup. It'll be competing with Ford's Focus and Honda's all-conquering Civic. It may look familiar, but the Cobalt rides an all new version of GM's strong and stiff front-wheel drive Delta platform.

Like the outgoing Cavalier, the Cobalt comes in two- and four-door bodies. The slope-nosed design has gained a grille similar to the rest of the Chevy team, but remains familiar. The seating position is high, for improved visibility. Large, crystal headlamps and four-unit taillights are also design cues that help to link the Cobalt with the larger Malibu and Impala.Wheel choices range from 15" to big, bold 18" wheels on some of the sporty coupe versions. Inside, the Cobalt is well-equipped, with an options list that includes heated seats and XM satellite radio.

The suspension uses MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam in the rear. Electronic power steering eliminates the additional weight required by a more traditional hydraulic system. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are available, with front discs and rear drums on base models and four-wheel discs on the Cobalt SS Supercharged. Traction control is also available on ABS-equipped cars.

Chevrolet calls the Cobalt a premium compact, but it doesn't cost as much as some $25,000-plus premium compacts have lately. Prices range from just over $14,000 to over $18,000 for the top-of-the-line Cobalt SS Supercharged. True to Chevy's mission of producing cars at realistic prices, air conditioning, a tilt wheel, side airbags and a rear window defroster are standard on every Cobalt.

The Fact Box:

All specs are for the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Length: 180.5 in.
Width: 67.9 in.
Height: 57.1 in.
Wheelbase: 103.3 in.
Curb weight: 2900 lb. (est.)
Cargo space: 13.9 cu.ft.
Base price: $13,900
Engine: 2.2 liter DOHC inline four-cylinder
Drivetrain: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Horsepower: 145 @ 5600
Torque: 155 @ 4000
Fuel capacity: 13.2 gal.