The Cobalt falls short of the best small cars. Its 2.2-liter engine is spirited but noisy and relatively thirsty. Drivers can expect just 24 mpg overall. The ride is relatively comfortable, but handling isn't agile. The steering is too light at low speeds. The rear seat is not roomy, even by small-car standards. Interior fit and finish is unimpressive. The Cobalt sedan received a score of acceptable in the IIHS side-crash test with the now-standard head-curtain air bags. Electronic stability control is optional for 2008, but only in the sport version that is priced close to the larger Malibu. The sporty SS model returns with a turbocharged engine.