GMX071, otherwise known as the 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, begins production at the Lordstown, Ohio, plant this summer. The Cobalt is one of the first vehicles produced under GM’s new global compact vehicle architecture (GCV), otherwise known as the Delta II platform, the same platform that will be used for the Chevy Volt and the Saturn Astra. This new approach will allow GM to produce structurally diverse cars on a single assembly line.

As a result, the Cobalt gets a total redesign for 2010 in both coupe and sedan styles. The new two-tier Chevy grille makes an appearance here, while overall design seems to blend the Malibu with hints of the BMW 5 Series along the sides. Available in nine trims - Base, LS, LT1, and LT2 for both coupe and sedan, and an SS turbocharged coupe - all but the SS will be powered by a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) engine that produces 155 hp at 6,100 rpm. SS trims get a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four, good for 260 hp at 5,300 rpm. Based on previous years’ specs, all but the LT2 will come with a five-speed manual, and with the exception of the SS, all are expected to get an estimated 25/37 mpg. LT2 trims come with a four-speed automatic, and in that setup fuel efficiency drops to 24/33. SS trims, with their more powerful engine, can expect numbers around 22/30.

Initial reactions to the press photos and spy shots have been promising, with many appreciating the sloping rear roof, high waistline, and elegant glass of this all-new Cobalt.