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January 16, 2009 | NEXT PAGE » |
Like the exterior, the interior is unique to the Cobalt SS, including SS-embroidered sport seats with suede-like UltraLux inserts, a specific gauge cluster, and an A-pillar-mounted Auto Meter turbo boost gauge. Three interior color combinations are available: Ebony, Light Gray and Victory Red. We did with the mouse-skin gray and loved every minute of it.
The driving position is tall and upright but the seats are comfortable and offer a good measure of restraint. Everything is easy to read, easy to reach, and easy to operate. Outward vision is excellent. To us, the suspension isn’t one bit obdurate or harsh, but just right for the mission of the SS. The limited-slip goes a long way curtailing wheel spin so the 225 tires lay down dark, black stripes as the Cobalt shoots forward, albeit with a complement of tire smoke. The shifter has close gates, is smooth, and immediate. If you have any finesse at all, you’ll be able to manipulate the throttle and catch noiseless upshifts, snickety-smooth--without using the clutch.
In a very big way, the Cobalt SS vindicates that red Pinto wagon we screwed with so long ago. Might be that it reflects the very near future of hopped-up production engines, too. We’ve always been fans of little guys that can whomp on much larger ones and then run away and hide, an embodiment of the meek inheriting the earth thing.
BUMP-UP KITSSince small-displacement engines enhanced by charged-air devices have returned for the long-run, GMPP has developed enhancement products for all Ecotec LNF turbo cars. Power gains of 30hp and as much as 80lb-ft of torque are a certainty with the $650 Turbo Upgrade Kit (PN 19212670). The power boost ratchets output from 260hp and 260lb-ft to 290hp and up to a robust 340lb-ft. Torque levels vary, depending on the model and/or transmission. Applications include:
The Turbo Upgrade Kit includes a new ECM calibration and MAP sensors to work with higher boost levels. Premium fuel is required, but all other vehicle functions remain unchanged. By decree, it does not affect full factory warranty and it is 50-state emissions-compliant. For the optimum bleat, glom a GM Performance Parts “Ecotec 2.0L LSJ Power Book” (PN 88958686). SOURCE |
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