Chevrolet: Cobalt/Cruze News **Diesel Engine Information (page 7)**
12-28-2003, 07:29 PM
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GM lays big hopes on small Cobalt
Automaker counts on profit from Cavalier replacement
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
When General Motors Corp. unveils the new Chevrolet Cobalt on Monday at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the automaker hopes its latest small car will do more than refresh a tired product line.
GM aims to remove the $4,000 in cash discounts it routinely piles on the hood of the car that Cobalt will replace next year — the aging Cavalier.
Indeed, with the Cobalt, billed as a premium small car, GM is making its most serious attempt in years at turning a profit in the small-car segment, known for paper-thin margins at best.
The strategy is simple: bring in more revenue with the Cobalt than the Cavalier, and draw younger buyers into Chevy’s fold.
“We’ll be right in the (small-car) price range,” said Peter Lagenhorst, small-car marketing director at Chevrolet. “But not with $4,000 cash incentives.”
At least not right away. While the Cobalt’s introductory sticker price hasn’t been released, GM is adding premium features, including upgraded interiors and better seating fabric, to the vehicle. That probably will send the price well into the $20,000 range.
With Chevrolet hoping to go upscale in the small-car market with the Cobalt, a new Daewoo-based entry-level car — the recently introduced Chevy Aveo — now gives GM a car to compete against ultra-low priced Korean and Japanese cars priced from $10,000 to $12,000.
Chevrolet hopes to sell 230,000 to 250,000 Cobalts a year, with the split about even between the sedan and coupe.
Unlike with the Cavalier, which remained basic transportation with limited upgrades, GM will have more opportunities to sell more well-equipped Cobalts.
Aside from the basic sedan and coupe equipped with a 140-horsepower Ecotec engine, Chevrolet will offer a 170-horsepower SS version and a brawnier 200-horsepower SS supercharged model aimed squarely at the “tuner” market.
Honda and Acura are currently the favorites of the tuner set, which spends hundreds or thousands of dollars in after-market accessories and performance enhancements on small cars.
“We’re convinced Cobalt is the new standard in small cars,” said Lori Queen, GM’s small-car vehicle line executive. “It will be the premium player in Chevy’s small-car lineup.”
It’s one of 10 new models Chevrolet is introducing in the next 20 months as it turns over a tiring lineup.
The Cobalt faces stiff competition.
The shrinking small-car market remains fickle, with a slew of new entrants that include BMW AG’s Mini line, Toyota Motor Co.p.’s new Scion line, the Toyota Matrix and the Pontiac Vibe.
Jeffrey Schuster, the director of North American forecasting for J.D. Power and Associates, isn’t convinced the Cobalt is going to be a hit, let alone a profit source.
“The sedan is a solid looking product, with some freshness,” he said, “but I was disappointed in the coupe — it already looks dated.”
That doesn’t mean there isn’t money to be made with the Cobalt.
“They do have some opportunity in the tuner arena, if the products are perceived to be hot,” Schuster said.
Formula for profit
When the Cobalt goes on sale as a 2005 model late next year, it will mark the end of a long, and sometimes futile, effort for GM in finding the formula for a profitable small car.
In 1999, a year before Ford Motor Co. launched the moderately successful Focus, an exasperated Mark Hogan, then vice president of GM’s small-car operations, declared years of losses on small cars had to stop.
“We cannot afford to lose money on small cars anymore,” said Hogan, now head of GM’s advanced vehicle development operation. “All elements of GM’s business must contribute — including small cars.”
A plan code-named “Yellowstone” was hatched. It was aimed at building profitable small cars by benchmarking the best practices of the market leaders and incorporating new manufacturing methods that called for fewer people, less factory floor space and more supplier-built parts modules.
But the plan was derailed, in part, by bad timing. Just before negotiations were to begin on a new national contract with the United Auto Workers in 1999, then-UAW President Stephen Yokich demanded Hogan’s ouster over the labor force-thinning plan, and Yellowstone was killed.
GM hatches new plan
By August 2002, GM had a new plan and was ready to invest more than $500 million to renovate the Lordstown, Ohio, assembly and stamping plants, which now produce the Cavalier, to build its new-generation small car, later named the Cobalt.
“GM’s investment in Lordstown signifies that GM will continue to aggressively compete in the very important small-car segment,” said Gary Cowger, president of GM North America, in making the announcement.
Introduced in 1981 as an eventual replacement for the Chevette, the Cavalier has been hanging on, but only on the tailwind of heavy cash incentives, rendering it nothing more than a profitless placeholder until the Cobalt comes on line.
Cavalier’s exit and Cobalt’s entrance will happen none too soon, Chevrolet dealers said.
“The Cavalier’s been around a long time,” said Kenn Elliott, sales manager at Holiday Chevrolet in Farmington Hills. “It’s an opportunity to get some fresh people in.”
“There’s an opportunity in that segment to get some American car business,” said Scott Montgomery, sales manager at Les Stanford Chevrolet in Dearborn. “The Cavalier was a good car for us, but it’s tired. They put a little lipstick on it from time to time, but lipstick eventually wears off.”
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313)223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
Automaker counts on profit from Cavalier replacement
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
When General Motors Corp. unveils the new Chevrolet Cobalt on Monday at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the automaker hopes its latest small car will do more than refresh a tired product line.
GM aims to remove the $4,000 in cash discounts it routinely piles on the hood of the car that Cobalt will replace next year — the aging Cavalier.
Indeed, with the Cobalt, billed as a premium small car, GM is making its most serious attempt in years at turning a profit in the small-car segment, known for paper-thin margins at best.
The strategy is simple: bring in more revenue with the Cobalt than the Cavalier, and draw younger buyers into Chevy’s fold.
“We’ll be right in the (small-car) price range,” said Peter Lagenhorst, small-car marketing director at Chevrolet. “But not with $4,000 cash incentives.”
At least not right away. While the Cobalt’s introductory sticker price hasn’t been released, GM is adding premium features, including upgraded interiors and better seating fabric, to the vehicle. That probably will send the price well into the $20,000 range.
With Chevrolet hoping to go upscale in the small-car market with the Cobalt, a new Daewoo-based entry-level car — the recently introduced Chevy Aveo — now gives GM a car to compete against ultra-low priced Korean and Japanese cars priced from $10,000 to $12,000.
Chevrolet hopes to sell 230,000 to 250,000 Cobalts a year, with the split about even between the sedan and coupe.
Unlike with the Cavalier, which remained basic transportation with limited upgrades, GM will have more opportunities to sell more well-equipped Cobalts.
Aside from the basic sedan and coupe equipped with a 140-horsepower Ecotec engine, Chevrolet will offer a 170-horsepower SS version and a brawnier 200-horsepower SS supercharged model aimed squarely at the “tuner” market.
Honda and Acura are currently the favorites of the tuner set, which spends hundreds or thousands of dollars in after-market accessories and performance enhancements on small cars.
“We’re convinced Cobalt is the new standard in small cars,” said Lori Queen, GM’s small-car vehicle line executive. “It will be the premium player in Chevy’s small-car lineup.”
It’s one of 10 new models Chevrolet is introducing in the next 20 months as it turns over a tiring lineup.
The Cobalt faces stiff competition.
The shrinking small-car market remains fickle, with a slew of new entrants that include BMW AG’s Mini line, Toyota Motor Co.p.’s new Scion line, the Toyota Matrix and the Pontiac Vibe.
Jeffrey Schuster, the director of North American forecasting for J.D. Power and Associates, isn’t convinced the Cobalt is going to be a hit, let alone a profit source.
“The sedan is a solid looking product, with some freshness,” he said, “but I was disappointed in the coupe — it already looks dated.”
That doesn’t mean there isn’t money to be made with the Cobalt.
“They do have some opportunity in the tuner arena, if the products are perceived to be hot,” Schuster said.
Formula for profit
When the Cobalt goes on sale as a 2005 model late next year, it will mark the end of a long, and sometimes futile, effort for GM in finding the formula for a profitable small car.
In 1999, a year before Ford Motor Co. launched the moderately successful Focus, an exasperated Mark Hogan, then vice president of GM’s small-car operations, declared years of losses on small cars had to stop.
“We cannot afford to lose money on small cars anymore,” said Hogan, now head of GM’s advanced vehicle development operation. “All elements of GM’s business must contribute — including small cars.”
A plan code-named “Yellowstone” was hatched. It was aimed at building profitable small cars by benchmarking the best practices of the market leaders and incorporating new manufacturing methods that called for fewer people, less factory floor space and more supplier-built parts modules.
But the plan was derailed, in part, by bad timing. Just before negotiations were to begin on a new national contract with the United Auto Workers in 1999, then-UAW President Stephen Yokich demanded Hogan’s ouster over the labor force-thinning plan, and Yellowstone was killed.
GM hatches new plan
By August 2002, GM had a new plan and was ready to invest more than $500 million to renovate the Lordstown, Ohio, assembly and stamping plants, which now produce the Cavalier, to build its new-generation small car, later named the Cobalt.
“GM’s investment in Lordstown signifies that GM will continue to aggressively compete in the very important small-car segment,” said Gary Cowger, president of GM North America, in making the announcement.
Introduced in 1981 as an eventual replacement for the Chevette, the Cavalier has been hanging on, but only on the tailwind of heavy cash incentives, rendering it nothing more than a profitless placeholder until the Cobalt comes on line.
Cavalier’s exit and Cobalt’s entrance will happen none too soon, Chevrolet dealers said.
“The Cavalier’s been around a long time,” said Kenn Elliott, sales manager at Holiday Chevrolet in Farmington Hills. “It’s an opportunity to get some fresh people in.”
“There’s an opportunity in that segment to get some American car business,” said Scott Montgomery, sales manager at Les Stanford Chevrolet in Dearborn. “The Cavalier was a good car for us, but it’s tired. They put a little lipstick on it from time to time, but lipstick eventually wears off.”
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313)223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
12-29-2003, 08:34 AM
#52
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So the sedan has "Neon-like rear lights" and the coupe has "Corvette-like rear lights". Interesting concept and I think I like it.
Hello SRT4? We'll see I guess...THough the optional 18s say a lot...
Hello SRT4? We'll see I guess...THough the optional 18s say a lot...
12-29-2003, 08:39 AM
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2005 CHEVROLET COBALT: AN ALL-NEW PREMIUM SMALL CAR
LOS ANGELES - The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, an all-new premium small car featuring an expressive design and dynamic driving experience, is making its public debut at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. Cobalt will be manufactured beginning in the fourth quarter of 2004 at General Motors' Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant.
With the Cobalt and all-new 2004 Aveo, Chevrolet is well positioned in the entry level and premium small car segments.
?Cobalt is one of 10 new products joining the Chevrolet family over the next 20 months,? said Chevrolet General Manager Brent Dewar. ?With Cobalt and Aveo, Chevrolet will become a dominant player in the small car segment again.?
Cobalt offers a diverse selection of expressive body styles, refined interiors, race-inspired Ecotec four-cylinder engines, smooth-shifting transmissions, precision-tuned suspensions and dynamic wheels. The dynamic driving experience has its foundation in GM?s solid Delta architecture.
According to Lori Queen, GM vehicle line executive for small cars, Cobalt was created to deliver a driving experience not expected in the small car segment.
?Cobalt achieves a new level of small car refinement, quality and performance,? said Queen. ?With its great looks and outstanding performance, Cobalt is just plain fun to drive.?
Models
The Cobalt family includes two models, sedan and coupe, and a total of eight trim levels. The sedan model features base, LS, LT and SS trims, while coupe models are available in base, LS, SS and SS Supercharged trims - more details on the Cobalt SS Supercharged will be announced later. Each distinct model includes a specific interior, powertrain, suspension and wheels, as well as a long list of standard and available features.
Pricing will be announced in late summer 2004.
Expressive Chevrolet design
The Cobalt family continues Chevrolet?s refined and expressive design character. The sedan offers sophisticated appearance coupled with a higher seating position for a more commanding view of the road. For the coupe, Chevrolet builds on the identity of America?s most aspirational sport coupe, the Corvette. Leveraging the style of the sedan from the A-pillar forward, the Cobalt coupe reveals an elegantly tapered reverse C-pillar leading the eye to Chevrolet?s signature four round taillamps.
Other Chevrolet styling cues include a bold, dual-port grille and gold bowtie at its center. All Cobalt models have precise metal fits, too. For example, there are 3.5-mm tolerances between the fenders and doors, as well as 3-mm tolerances on the hood and decklid.
Great attention was also given to the use of tailored rubber moldings for a clean appearance. All models feature body-color moldings and door handles, as well as jewel-like headlamps and taillamps. Several wheel options also are offered, including standard 15-inch wheels and available 16-inch, 17-inch, and 18-inch wheels, all with unique designs.
The Cobalt family features 10 contemporary exterior colors.
?Our design approach on the Cobalt was to keep the exterior sheet metal clean and uncluttered, with a tailored, refined execution, giving the vehicle a premium exterior feel and appearance,? said Phil Zak, Cobalt lead designer. ?The exterior surfaces also enabled us to design an SS series with bolder fascias and rockers, giving them a lowered, more aggressive look.?
The interiors of the Cobalt models reflect the same attention to detail as with the exterior designs. The high level of refinement is apparent in the quality of materials, appointments and styling cues used throughout the cabin. The execution of the gauges, knobs and buttons is simple and easy to use, yet elegant.
Comfort is emphasized in all of the Cobalt models, with seats designed to reflect the various performance levels. The seats hold occupants firmly in position to deliver the right balance of comfort and security while cornering. They also are bolstered in the seatback and cushion without being intrusive, providing comfort for both short and long drives.
Standard features
?Cobalt offers many unexpected features not typically found in small cars today,? said Pete Langenhorst, Chevrolet Cobalt marketing director. ?We?ve also packaged these features in a way our customers will appreciate and enjoy.?
Cobalt offers a long list of standard features including air conditioning, electric rear defogger, CD player and driver information center. Available features include heated leather seats, power sunroof, XM Satellite Radio, MP3 playback and OnStar. In addition, Cobalt features plenty of interior flexibility, including easy access to the rear seat, 60/40 folding rear seats, interior access to the trunk area, as well as ample, versatile storage.
Dynamic driving experience
With a strong structural foundation and wide array of engines, transmissions and suspensions, Cobalt delivers a dynamic driving experience regardless of model and trim level. In addition, safety and interior noise were significantly addressed throughout the development, delivering a safe and pleasing interior experience.
Cobalt was created on a strong foundation - GM?s Delta architecture. The rigid lower-dominant body structure is engineered as a single unit for mass efficiency and stiffness. The underbody uses high-strength steel as welded members in strategic locations for maximum strength, structural integrity, mass optimization and crashworthiness.
?The Delta architecture provides a solid foundation for a great small car,? said Doug Parks, Cobalt chief engineer. ?With Cobalt, we focused on every detail. By selecting the right components and aggressively working on excellent ride and handling characteristics and noise reduction, we?ve engineered a small car with a truly premium feel.?
Noise reduction
One-piece stamped tailor welded blanks are used for the inner and outer frame for added rigidity. In the instrument panel mounting area, a sound-deadening plenum is formed from a plastic layer sandwiched by thin steel sheets.
The Cobalt?s stiff underbody also supports a quiet ride, producing nearly 27 Hz in bending frequency. The rigid thingypit structure provides additional noise reduction, as well as providing load-carrying capability for crash protection. All other cabin entry points for noise have been addressed with seals, carpeting or other sound-deadening materials. Engine and decklid covers were extensively engineered to reduce noise.
The powertrain is supported by a torque-axis mounting arrangement that allows the suspension to operate at maximum efficiency while minimizing engine noise and vibration. Additionally, the doors, trunk and hood have all been engineered to have a solid closing sound.
Ride and handling
Cobalt?s advanced chassis systems are tuned to deliver ride and handling characteristics to fit the diverse requirements of a broad customer base. Electric power steering also is tuned to match the performance levels of the various tire and suspension packages. The tight turning radius is 34.8 feet (10.6 meters) curb to curb. Cobalt features a strut-type front suspension, semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars for more exact body roll control.
Brakes and traction control
Vented front disc brakes with single-piston calipers and composite drum rear brakes are standard on the base models. Four channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard on LS, LT and SS models. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on SS models. Cobalt also features an enhanced electronic traction control system.
Safety
The rigid body structure that enables Cobalt?s dynamic driving experience also reinforces its safety. In addition to the solid unibody structure, dual-stage air bags are standard and side head curtain air bags are available. Front seat-belt pre-tensioners, rear center shoulder belts and the LATCH child seat retention system are also standard equipment.
LOS ANGELES - The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, an all-new premium small car featuring an expressive design and dynamic driving experience, is making its public debut at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. Cobalt will be manufactured beginning in the fourth quarter of 2004 at General Motors' Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant.
With the Cobalt and all-new 2004 Aveo, Chevrolet is well positioned in the entry level and premium small car segments.
?Cobalt is one of 10 new products joining the Chevrolet family over the next 20 months,? said Chevrolet General Manager Brent Dewar. ?With Cobalt and Aveo, Chevrolet will become a dominant player in the small car segment again.?
Cobalt offers a diverse selection of expressive body styles, refined interiors, race-inspired Ecotec four-cylinder engines, smooth-shifting transmissions, precision-tuned suspensions and dynamic wheels. The dynamic driving experience has its foundation in GM?s solid Delta architecture.
According to Lori Queen, GM vehicle line executive for small cars, Cobalt was created to deliver a driving experience not expected in the small car segment.
?Cobalt achieves a new level of small car refinement, quality and performance,? said Queen. ?With its great looks and outstanding performance, Cobalt is just plain fun to drive.?
Models
The Cobalt family includes two models, sedan and coupe, and a total of eight trim levels. The sedan model features base, LS, LT and SS trims, while coupe models are available in base, LS, SS and SS Supercharged trims - more details on the Cobalt SS Supercharged will be announced later. Each distinct model includes a specific interior, powertrain, suspension and wheels, as well as a long list of standard and available features.
Pricing will be announced in late summer 2004.
Expressive Chevrolet design
The Cobalt family continues Chevrolet?s refined and expressive design character. The sedan offers sophisticated appearance coupled with a higher seating position for a more commanding view of the road. For the coupe, Chevrolet builds on the identity of America?s most aspirational sport coupe, the Corvette. Leveraging the style of the sedan from the A-pillar forward, the Cobalt coupe reveals an elegantly tapered reverse C-pillar leading the eye to Chevrolet?s signature four round taillamps.
Other Chevrolet styling cues include a bold, dual-port grille and gold bowtie at its center. All Cobalt models have precise metal fits, too. For example, there are 3.5-mm tolerances between the fenders and doors, as well as 3-mm tolerances on the hood and decklid.
Great attention was also given to the use of tailored rubber moldings for a clean appearance. All models feature body-color moldings and door handles, as well as jewel-like headlamps and taillamps. Several wheel options also are offered, including standard 15-inch wheels and available 16-inch, 17-inch, and 18-inch wheels, all with unique designs.
The Cobalt family features 10 contemporary exterior colors.
?Our design approach on the Cobalt was to keep the exterior sheet metal clean and uncluttered, with a tailored, refined execution, giving the vehicle a premium exterior feel and appearance,? said Phil Zak, Cobalt lead designer. ?The exterior surfaces also enabled us to design an SS series with bolder fascias and rockers, giving them a lowered, more aggressive look.?
The interiors of the Cobalt models reflect the same attention to detail as with the exterior designs. The high level of refinement is apparent in the quality of materials, appointments and styling cues used throughout the cabin. The execution of the gauges, knobs and buttons is simple and easy to use, yet elegant.
Comfort is emphasized in all of the Cobalt models, with seats designed to reflect the various performance levels. The seats hold occupants firmly in position to deliver the right balance of comfort and security while cornering. They also are bolstered in the seatback and cushion without being intrusive, providing comfort for both short and long drives.
Standard features
?Cobalt offers many unexpected features not typically found in small cars today,? said Pete Langenhorst, Chevrolet Cobalt marketing director. ?We?ve also packaged these features in a way our customers will appreciate and enjoy.?
Cobalt offers a long list of standard features including air conditioning, electric rear defogger, CD player and driver information center. Available features include heated leather seats, power sunroof, XM Satellite Radio, MP3 playback and OnStar. In addition, Cobalt features plenty of interior flexibility, including easy access to the rear seat, 60/40 folding rear seats, interior access to the trunk area, as well as ample, versatile storage.
Dynamic driving experience
With a strong structural foundation and wide array of engines, transmissions and suspensions, Cobalt delivers a dynamic driving experience regardless of model and trim level. In addition, safety and interior noise were significantly addressed throughout the development, delivering a safe and pleasing interior experience.
Cobalt was created on a strong foundation - GM?s Delta architecture. The rigid lower-dominant body structure is engineered as a single unit for mass efficiency and stiffness. The underbody uses high-strength steel as welded members in strategic locations for maximum strength, structural integrity, mass optimization and crashworthiness.
?The Delta architecture provides a solid foundation for a great small car,? said Doug Parks, Cobalt chief engineer. ?With Cobalt, we focused on every detail. By selecting the right components and aggressively working on excellent ride and handling characteristics and noise reduction, we?ve engineered a small car with a truly premium feel.?
Noise reduction
One-piece stamped tailor welded blanks are used for the inner and outer frame for added rigidity. In the instrument panel mounting area, a sound-deadening plenum is formed from a plastic layer sandwiched by thin steel sheets.
The Cobalt?s stiff underbody also supports a quiet ride, producing nearly 27 Hz in bending frequency. The rigid thingypit structure provides additional noise reduction, as well as providing load-carrying capability for crash protection. All other cabin entry points for noise have been addressed with seals, carpeting or other sound-deadening materials. Engine and decklid covers were extensively engineered to reduce noise.
The powertrain is supported by a torque-axis mounting arrangement that allows the suspension to operate at maximum efficiency while minimizing engine noise and vibration. Additionally, the doors, trunk and hood have all been engineered to have a solid closing sound.
Ride and handling
Cobalt?s advanced chassis systems are tuned to deliver ride and handling characteristics to fit the diverse requirements of a broad customer base. Electric power steering also is tuned to match the performance levels of the various tire and suspension packages. The tight turning radius is 34.8 feet (10.6 meters) curb to curb. Cobalt features a strut-type front suspension, semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars for more exact body roll control.
Brakes and traction control
Vented front disc brakes with single-piston calipers and composite drum rear brakes are standard on the base models. Four channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard on LS, LT and SS models. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on SS models. Cobalt also features an enhanced electronic traction control system.
Safety
The rigid body structure that enables Cobalt?s dynamic driving experience also reinforces its safety. In addition to the solid unibody structure, dual-stage air bags are standard and side head curtain air bags are available. Front seat-belt pre-tensioners, rear center shoulder belts and the LATCH child seat retention system are also standard equipment.
12-29-2003, 08:40 AM
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Powerful powertrains
Cobalt offers three race-inspired Ecotec four-cylinder engines, one proven automatic transmission and two manual transmissions. The Ecotec family includes a standard 2.2-liter engine in the base, LS, and LT models; a new 2.4-liter engine standard in the SS coupe and sedan; and a 2.0-liter supercharged engine standard in the SS Supercharged coupe.
The Ecotec 2.2-liter engine delivers an estimated 140 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. The combination of increased displacement and variable valve timing technology enables the Ecotec 2.4-liter to achieve one of the highest torque ratings - an estimated 170 lb.-ft. - for a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the United States. The 2.4-liter?s 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm also is one of the highest specific-power outputs for any non-boosted four-cylinder of any size sold in the U.S., according to Ward?s 2003 market data.
The 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engines feature aluminum block and cylinder heads, counter rotating balance shafts, roller finger follower valve lifters, chain driven camshafts, electronic throttle control, coil-on-plug ignition, GM Oil Life System and extended life spark plugs and coolant.
With the new 2.4-liter engine, variable valve timing (VVT) is introduced to the Ecotec family. The new VVT system uses electronically controlled hydraulic camshaft phasers to alter the relationship of the intake and exhaust camshafts as much as 50 degrees relative to the crankshaft for improved performance and efficiency.
The Ecotec 2.2-liter is the foundation for GM?s front-wheel-drive drag racing efforts. The race-prepared Ecotec engine, which produces more than 1,000 horsepower, powers GM Racing?s Chevrolet Cavalier in the NHRA front-wheel-drive Sport Compact class and has been a proven winner throughout 2003.
Mated to the Ecotec 2.2-liter engine in the Cobalt is a standard Getrag five-speed manual and available Hydra-Matic 4T45-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The compact and efficient five-speed manual features five synchronized forward gears and a synchronized reverse gear. The 4T45-E is engineered to deliver transparent shifts in a quiet and durable package. With the Cobalt SS Supercharged model?s 2.0-liter supercharged engine, a manual transmission tailored to its unique power bands is included.
?Cobalt offers an outstanding lineup of engines and transmissions, delivering excellent performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions,? said Roger Duguay, Ecotec engine chief engineer.
Preliminary Specifications
Body structure:
unibody construction with extensive use of high-strength steel
Wheelbase (in / mm): 103.3 / 2624
Length (in / mm):
Sedan - 180.3 / 4580
Coupe - 180.5 / 4584
Width (in/mm): 67.9 / 1725
Engines:
Ecotec 2.2L DOHC I-4, Ecotec 2.4L DOHC I-4
Horsepower (hp/kw @ rpm):
Ecotec 2.2L - 140 / 104 @ 5600 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.4L - 170 / 127 @ 6000 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.0L Supercharged - horsepower to be announced later
Torque (lb-ft/Nm @ rpm):
Ecotec 2.2L - 150 / 203 @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.4L - 170 / 230 @ 4400 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.0L Supercharged - torque to be announced later
Transmissions:
5-speed manual (standard), Hydra-Matic 4T45-E 4-speed automatic (optional)
Driveline: front-wheel drive
Brakes:
-disc front / drum rear, anti-lock brake system on select models
-disc front / disc rear, anti-lock brake system on select models
Suspension
Front: strut-type with stabilizer bar
Rear: semi-independent, torsion beam
Wheel size:
Base/LS: 15-inch
LT: 16-inch
SS: 17-inch
SS Supercharged: 18-inch
End of Press Release
Cobalt offers three race-inspired Ecotec four-cylinder engines, one proven automatic transmission and two manual transmissions. The Ecotec family includes a standard 2.2-liter engine in the base, LS, and LT models; a new 2.4-liter engine standard in the SS coupe and sedan; and a 2.0-liter supercharged engine standard in the SS Supercharged coupe.
The Ecotec 2.2-liter engine delivers an estimated 140 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. The combination of increased displacement and variable valve timing technology enables the Ecotec 2.4-liter to achieve one of the highest torque ratings - an estimated 170 lb.-ft. - for a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the United States. The 2.4-liter?s 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm also is one of the highest specific-power outputs for any non-boosted four-cylinder of any size sold in the U.S., according to Ward?s 2003 market data.
The 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engines feature aluminum block and cylinder heads, counter rotating balance shafts, roller finger follower valve lifters, chain driven camshafts, electronic throttle control, coil-on-plug ignition, GM Oil Life System and extended life spark plugs and coolant.
With the new 2.4-liter engine, variable valve timing (VVT) is introduced to the Ecotec family. The new VVT system uses electronically controlled hydraulic camshaft phasers to alter the relationship of the intake and exhaust camshafts as much as 50 degrees relative to the crankshaft for improved performance and efficiency.
The Ecotec 2.2-liter is the foundation for GM?s front-wheel-drive drag racing efforts. The race-prepared Ecotec engine, which produces more than 1,000 horsepower, powers GM Racing?s Chevrolet Cavalier in the NHRA front-wheel-drive Sport Compact class and has been a proven winner throughout 2003.
Mated to the Ecotec 2.2-liter engine in the Cobalt is a standard Getrag five-speed manual and available Hydra-Matic 4T45-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The compact and efficient five-speed manual features five synchronized forward gears and a synchronized reverse gear. The 4T45-E is engineered to deliver transparent shifts in a quiet and durable package. With the Cobalt SS Supercharged model?s 2.0-liter supercharged engine, a manual transmission tailored to its unique power bands is included.
?Cobalt offers an outstanding lineup of engines and transmissions, delivering excellent performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions,? said Roger Duguay, Ecotec engine chief engineer.
Preliminary Specifications
Body structure:
unibody construction with extensive use of high-strength steel
Wheelbase (in / mm): 103.3 / 2624
Length (in / mm):
Sedan - 180.3 / 4580
Coupe - 180.5 / 4584
Width (in/mm): 67.9 / 1725
Engines:
Ecotec 2.2L DOHC I-4, Ecotec 2.4L DOHC I-4
Horsepower (hp/kw @ rpm):
Ecotec 2.2L - 140 / 104 @ 5600 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.4L - 170 / 127 @ 6000 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.0L Supercharged - horsepower to be announced later
Torque (lb-ft/Nm @ rpm):
Ecotec 2.2L - 150 / 203 @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.4L - 170 / 230 @ 4400 rpm (estimated)
Ecotec 2.0L Supercharged - torque to be announced later
Transmissions:
5-speed manual (standard), Hydra-Matic 4T45-E 4-speed automatic (optional)
Driveline: front-wheel drive
Brakes:
-disc front / drum rear, anti-lock brake system on select models
-disc front / disc rear, anti-lock brake system on select models
Suspension
Front: strut-type with stabilizer bar
Rear: semi-independent, torsion beam
Wheel size:
Base/LS: 15-inch
LT: 16-inch
SS: 17-inch
SS Supercharged: 18-inch
End of Press Release
12-29-2003, 06:37 PM
#56
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that sucks, i thought they would change the suspension from the saturn, but it still has the torsion beam. also, the concept that had 220hp was a 2.2l supercharged, so its probably more likely the 2.0 supercharged will have the same power as the saturn redline.
12-30-2003, 05:21 PM
#57
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Pic of coupe here (way too big to post as pic)
http://www.thecarconnection.com/imag...7573_image.jpg
12-30-2003, 05:34 PM
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Chevrolet Cobalt
Bye-bye Cavalier, hello Cobalt—Chevy?s all-new compact car has finally debuted. Riding on GM?s Delta architecture, the 2005 Cobalt will be available as a sedan and a coupe, with a total of eight trim levels—base, LS, LT, and SS sedans and base, LS, SS, and SS Supercharged coupes. While both Cobalt body styles share a general resemblance with the Saturn Ions (they share a platform, after all), the Cobalt coupe gets racier styling thanks to design cues taken from the Corvette, specifically the tapered reverse C-pillar that leads to four round taillamps.
All Cobalt models feature precise metal fits, including 3.5-mm tolerances between the fenders and doors and 3.0-mm gaps on the hood and decklid. Cobalt offers a long list of standard features including air conditioning, electric rear defogger, CD player, and driver information center. In addition, Cobalt features plenty of interior flexibility, including easy access to the rear seat, 60/40 folding rear seats, and interior access to the trunk area. Chevy?s new small car rides on struts up front and a semi-independent torsion-beam in the rear, aided by front and rear anti-roll bars. Vented disc front brakes with single-piston calipers and composite drum rear brakes are standard on base trims, with LS, LT, and SS trims getting four-channel ABS standard.
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on SS models. Power comes from a standard 2.2-liter Ecotec engine (base, LS, and LT) that delivers an estimated 140 hp and 150 lb.-ft. of torque; a new 2.4-liter engine (SS) with variable valve timing generates 170 hp and an estimated 170 lb.-ft.; and a 2.0-liter supercharged engine (SS Supercharged) produces roughly 200 hp and 200 lb.-ft. Mated to the 2.2 and 2.4 is a standard Getrag five-speed manual; a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic is optional. The SS Supercharged will sport a manual transmission tailored to its unique power band. Production will begin in the fourth quarter of 2004 at General Motors' Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant. Pricing will be announced in late summer 2004.
Source: Car and Driver
Bye-bye Cavalier, hello Cobalt—Chevy?s all-new compact car has finally debuted. Riding on GM?s Delta architecture, the 2005 Cobalt will be available as a sedan and a coupe, with a total of eight trim levels—base, LS, LT, and SS sedans and base, LS, SS, and SS Supercharged coupes. While both Cobalt body styles share a general resemblance with the Saturn Ions (they share a platform, after all), the Cobalt coupe gets racier styling thanks to design cues taken from the Corvette, specifically the tapered reverse C-pillar that leads to four round taillamps.
All Cobalt models feature precise metal fits, including 3.5-mm tolerances between the fenders and doors and 3.0-mm gaps on the hood and decklid. Cobalt offers a long list of standard features including air conditioning, electric rear defogger, CD player, and driver information center. In addition, Cobalt features plenty of interior flexibility, including easy access to the rear seat, 60/40 folding rear seats, and interior access to the trunk area. Chevy?s new small car rides on struts up front and a semi-independent torsion-beam in the rear, aided by front and rear anti-roll bars. Vented disc front brakes with single-piston calipers and composite drum rear brakes are standard on base trims, with LS, LT, and SS trims getting four-channel ABS standard.
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on SS models. Power comes from a standard 2.2-liter Ecotec engine (base, LS, and LT) that delivers an estimated 140 hp and 150 lb.-ft. of torque; a new 2.4-liter engine (SS) with variable valve timing generates 170 hp and an estimated 170 lb.-ft.; and a 2.0-liter supercharged engine (SS Supercharged) produces roughly 200 hp and 200 lb.-ft. Mated to the 2.2 and 2.4 is a standard Getrag five-speed manual; a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic is optional. The SS Supercharged will sport a manual transmission tailored to its unique power band. Production will begin in the fourth quarter of 2004 at General Motors' Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant. Pricing will be announced in late summer 2004.
Source: Car and Driver
04-01-2004, 02:08 AM
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Cobalt SS: GM reaches out to Tuners
GM reaches out to tuner enthusiasts
Supercharged Chevy Cobalt SS will hit dealers' lots in fall
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
DETROIT — Hoping to boost small car sales, General Motors Corp. is wheeling out a host of toys for tuners, including a supercharged version of the upcoming Chevrolet Cobalt that goes on sale this fall.
The automaker also plans to take the wraps off a supercharger kit for the Pontiac Sunfire and Chevrolet Cavalier at the International Auto Salon in San Diego, Calif.
The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe will feature a 205 horsepower Ecotec 2.0 liter, supercharged four-cylinder engine and five-speed transmission.
The car rides on 18-inch wheels and performance tires.
“The Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe was developed to appeal to the tuner enthusiast,” Pete Langenhorst, Chevrolet Cobalt marketing director, said in a statement.
Pricing will be announced in the fall, the company said.
The new Cobalt line includes a sedan and coupe and replaces the Cavalier, which goes out of production in October.
For those looking to give their Chevy Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire some added oomph, an Ecotec 2.2 liter supercharger kit will be available through GM dealerships at the end of the year.
GM estimates the kit will deliver an 11-pound boost, resulting in 175 horsepower at 5600 rpm— a 25 percent increase.
Pricing hasn’t been set.
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313) 223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
Supercharged Chevy Cobalt SS will hit dealers' lots in fall
By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News
DETROIT — Hoping to boost small car sales, General Motors Corp. is wheeling out a host of toys for tuners, including a supercharged version of the upcoming Chevrolet Cobalt that goes on sale this fall.
The automaker also plans to take the wraps off a supercharger kit for the Pontiac Sunfire and Chevrolet Cavalier at the International Auto Salon in San Diego, Calif.
The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe will feature a 205 horsepower Ecotec 2.0 liter, supercharged four-cylinder engine and five-speed transmission.
The car rides on 18-inch wheels and performance tires.
“The Cobalt SS Supercharged Coupe was developed to appeal to the tuner enthusiast,” Pete Langenhorst, Chevrolet Cobalt marketing director, said in a statement.
Pricing will be announced in the fall, the company said.
The new Cobalt line includes a sedan and coupe and replaces the Cavalier, which goes out of production in October.
For those looking to give their Chevy Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire some added oomph, an Ecotec 2.2 liter supercharger kit will be available through GM dealerships at the end of the year.
GM estimates the kit will deliver an 11-pound boost, resulting in 175 horsepower at 5600 rpm— a 25 percent increase.
Pricing hasn’t been set.
You can reach Ed Garsten at (313) 223-3217 or egarsten@detnews.com.
04-01-2004, 02:08 AM
#67
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04-01-2004, 03:31 PM
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Originally posted by gavriil
This is a pretty weak attempt to go against the SRT4.
This is a pretty weak attempt to go against the SRT4.
04-01-2004, 03:47 PM
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Well, the Saturn Ion Redline price was just announced at $20,950 (including a destination freight charge of $565). So I can't imagine the Cobalt SS being more than $21,500-$22k.
