2009 Chevrolet Cobalt: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is an upgraded 2.2-liter four-cylinder that makes 155 horsepower while using less fuel. Chevrolet also added fuel-focused manual configurations and expanded the turbocharged SS into a four-door sedan.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
1st generation (2005-2010), fifth model year; one year before final production
Chevrolet positioned the Cobalt as a practical compact sold in both coupe and sedan forms, with unusually broad personalities within one model range. Most versions emphasized straightforward transportation, a comfortable ride and strong highway fuel economy, while the SS delivered serious turbocharged performance. Its key distinction was the span from fuel-focused XFE models to a 260-horsepower sport compact without changing the basic small-car footprint.
The 2009 Cobalt ranges from basic, efficiency-focused XFE models to the more comfortable LT, which has power windows, remote locking and supportive front seats. The SS is the performance model, with a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine, firmer suspension, Brembo front brakes and electronic stability control in coupe and sedan forms.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd | Manual, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 22 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35 mpg | 30 mpg | 37 mpg | 37 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 155 hp | 155 hp | 260 hp | 155 hp | 155 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft | 150 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.9 cu-ft | 13.9 cu-ft | 13.9 cu-ft | 13.9 cu-ft | 13.9 cu-ft | 13.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.2–33.7 in | 32.2–33.7 in | 32.2–33.7 in | 32.2–33.7 in | 32.2–33.7 in | 32.2–33.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||||||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | ||||||
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Stability Control | ||||||
| Traction Control | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Locks | ||||||
| Power Windows | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt?
The biggest change is the upgraded 2.2-liter four-cylinder in Base, LS and LT models. Variable valve timing raised output to 155 horsepower while also improving fuel economy.
What does XFE mean on a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt?
XFE identifies the fuel-focused manual configurations for 2009. These cars use efficiency-oriented engine calibration and taller final-drive gearing to reduce engine speed during highway driving.
Did the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS come as a sedan?
Yes. The turbocharged Cobalt SS expanded to a four-door sedan for 2009 alongside the coupe, with a 260-horsepower engine, manual transmission, firmer suspension and Brembo front brakes.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt significantly different from the 2008 model?
Yes, but it is an update rather than a redesign. The main differences are the stronger and more efficient 2.2-liter engine, new XFE manual configurations and the addition of a four-door SS.
Was the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt redesigned?
No. The 2009 Cobalt remained part of the first generation introduced for 2005, but it received meaningful engine and lineup changes.