For a lot more power than the other trims, look to the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged. This front-wheel-drive sport sedan boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC inline-four engine that delivers nearly 100 more horsepower than the non-turbo engine. Numbers peak at 260 hp at 5,300 RPM and 260 ft-lbs of torque at 2,000 RPM. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. The SS also adds a rear spoiler, larger rear stabilizer bar, larger 4-wheel disc brakes, larger 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, and standard stability control.

The sedan seats four in two rows, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats opening onto a 13.9-cubic-foot trunk. An armrest doubles as a pass-through as well. The trunk features a cargo net. Cloth upholstery comes with special SS stitching. Standard equipment includes power windows, locks, and mirrors, remote entry, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, leather trim on the steering wheel and shifter, Bluetooth, and an upgraded 7-speaker sound system featuring a CD/MP3 player, MP3 input, and satellite radio. A tachometer, temperature gauge, intermittent wipers, tilt and power steering, two front power outlets, and a security system are also included. A sunroof costs extra.

Joining the now-standard stability control are 4-wheel ABS brakes, traction control, and dual-stage dual front-side airbags with passenger deactivation. Foglights come with the 2009 Cobalt SS, supplementing the automatic halogen headlamps. OnStar and a tire monitor are other safety features.