When it comes to spirited driving, front-wheel drive is not the optimal driveline layout. This may be a rather harsh statement, but it's one that any knowledgeable enthusiast would agree with. The fact that a FWD car might have a slight edge on a super-tight autocross course doesn't negate the fact that its advantages -like being cheaper to manufacture, (arguably) better in adverse weather, and offering increased cabin space-have nothing to do with performance.
Nonetheless, having an economical FWD in the stable can make perfect sense, even to the avid General Motors RWD muscle enthusiast. Think about it: though most competent F-body drivers can safely pilot their TCS-equipped rides through all but the worst of winter weather, do they really enjoy putting their irreplaceable vehicles through such a maelstrom of peril? Having an alternative-and, let's face it, replaceable -vehicle to drive on a daily basis also makes a lot more sense in a reality of inattentive SUV drivers, parking lot door dings, and vehicular theft.
Fortunately, owning and driving a front-driver doesn't just have to be a mere exercise in practicality. It can also be a lot of fun, as many are available with performance-oriented packages from the factory. Take GM, whose "sport compact" lineup broadens by the year. As far as the Chevrolet division goes, the 2007 Cobalt (and specifically, its SS trim level) is where it's at. Buyers of twodoor SS models get the normally aspirated 2.4L LE5 Ecotec standard, or can opt for the 205hp supercharged 2.0L LSJ, the latter only being available with a manual gearbox. Select a four-door Cobalt, and you can still get the SS badging-just not the blower.
That's exactly the choice we made when picking up this 2007 SS sedan (acquired from Great American Chevrolet in Hackensack, New Jersey). Features like shiny rims, a decklid spoiler, and four-wheel antilock disc brakes are all standard with the SS package, and this car's sparse options list consists of only a few items, like side airbags, an automatic transaxle, and XM Satellite Radio, bringing sticker price to a little north of $20K with destination charge. Though we're generally impressed with this car's taut driving characteristics, smooth-but-sharp ride, and decent gas mileage, we at GMHTP have decided 173 SAE-certified horses leave something on the table in the department of driving pleasure. (A Raceway Park-verified 15.6/86 in the quarter is not exactly earth shaking.)
Fortunately for us, GM performance isn't just about factory option packages. The company has made an incredible performance push of late, with more and more hi-po bolt-ons and race engine components displayed in the GM Performance Parts catalog each year. Sure, a lot of them are oriented at upping performance of the already-legendary LS V-8s, but the Ecotec engine family has its fair share of hop-ups as well. The beauty of many of these items is that not only are they covered by a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty, but the parts and service can even be incorporated into your new-car warranty if installed by your GM dealer. Follow along as we make some performance headway on our FWD four-banger with some easy and affordable boltons from GMPP, setting the stage for even more impressive power increases in an upcoming issue.
Our color of choice is Laser Blue Metallic, a hue that actually looks more purple under overcast skies (and has also been discontinued for 2008). Sleek lines add a performance edge over the car's Cavalier predecessor, while still keeping the look clearly domestic. A polished exhaust tip is an SS package inclusion. The one seen here is actually our GMPP slash-cut unit; the stock one is slightly smaller but similar in appearance. | 
Cobalt SS sedans get shiny 17s, as do coupes. Supercharged coupes upgrade to 18s, but they are painted (polishing optional), which along with the SS Supercharged's sportier suspension, create a little less forgiving ride. Check out the 205/50 Pirellis-not something you'd find on your average Cobalt, but fortunately M+S rated. (Please note that after deadline, we were informed the Cobalt SS model designation has been put on hiatus for MY 2008. Though you may still buy a 2.4L Cobalt nearly identical to ours, it is now called "Sport" in lieu of "SS." Also, the supercharged engine is no longer available, but we're hearing exciting things about the next boosted 'Balt. We'll keep you in the loop.) | 
The driving compartment is mostly business, and arguably more attractive than most compact cars. SS-spec white-faced gauges are not as cool as the "titanium" ones on the Supercharged coupe. Also obvious here is the shifter for our not-exactly-a-performance-option 4T45 automatic tranny. Selected mainly in the interest of making New York metro area gridlock traffic slightly more livable, this four-speed slush box also came packaged with exclusive items like all-speed traction control and remote start (not to mention an increased resale value) that made it hard to pass up. |