Check out the new Cobalt SS. This time, it'* turbocharged....

2008 CHEVROLET COBALT SS FAST FACTS

* Engineered and developed by GM Performance Division
* 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and intercooled engine with 260 horsepower (194 kW)
* GM Powertrain Sweden five-speed transmission with short-throw shifter
* Nürburgring-tuned FE5 Sport suspension delivers 0.9 g grip
* Brembo fixed-caliper front discs and vented rear disc brakes
* SS-specific appearance with unique fascias and rear spoiler – including available high wing
* 18-inch high-polished forged aluminum wheels and Y-rated performance tires
* SS-specific interior with new sport seats, A-pillar boost gauge and more
* On sale: second quarter of 2008

08_cobalt_ss_turbo2.jpg
08_cobalt_ss_turbo1.jpg

I'm mad that they're nixing the supercharger, but you can't argue with 260 horsepower. I'd like to see what the torque curve is and what the driving dynamics are before voicing an opinion.

You know, I had wondered why GM did a supercharged Ecotech, and then a turbo version. And when the supercharged version disappeared for this model year, it seemed they made the decision, or that it was just to fill time until the turbo was done.

Here'* the dyno for the turbo. I'm still looking for the SC.

http://media.gm.com/us/powertrain/en...F_Solstice.pdf

EDIT: Here'* the SC version

http://media.gm.com/us/powertrain/en...hev_Cobalt.pdf

I'm suprised how toned down it is, based on the flamboyant first iteration of the Cobalt SS.

I like it a lot more than the previous one, just because of the lack of that huge wing. It seems to me like they're going after the GTI crowd instead of the SRT-4 crowd

Much better looking than the original, in my opinion.

I wish they would put that kind of power and handling into something that didn't look so Cavalier-ish.

Not that there is anything wrong with a Cavalier....

You know, I gotta admit, those things are fun to drive. I drove a '02 Z24 a few months ago for a friend, and those actually have some good pick-up. You have to admit that the Cobalt is a huge step up interior-wise, lol.

That'* a snazzy car with some serious pep under the hood. I'm glad they finally went with the turbo, there'* much more potential there.