Quick Test: 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS

Okay, of course we're not referring to the 2008 Corvette. That would be a ridiculous statement, an utter lie. And we wouldn't do that to you. No, no, we're talking about the 1989 Vette that, back in a May 1989 road test, impressed power junkies with its 245-horse, 5.7-liter V-8 that could consume 60 in 6.5 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.0 at 94.6 mph. My, how times change-this cute Cobalt SS you see here, with a puny 2.0-liter four-cylinder spinning the front wheels and with help from a new "no-lift shift" launch control can scorch 60 in just 5.5 seconds and the quarter in 13.9 at 102.5 mph. Legit? You should see it at the track.

When we say track, we really mean the "'Ring," as in Germany's Nurburgring. It was there the SS, with a time of 8:22.85 minutes, set a new record for front-drive sport-compacts, a class previously dominated by the Opel Astra OPC, which was over 13 seconds slower. For context, a Z06 obliterates the 'Ring in 7:43, but that's with nearly twice the power, rear drive, and tires as wide as a La-Z-Boy.

The Cobalt's mojo comes courtesy of the aforementioned 2.0-liter-a 260-horsepower direct-injection turbo-and a heavily revised chassis, highlighted by stiffer springs and dampers, a larger rear anti-roll bar, 10-percent-quicker steering, Brembo four-piston front brakes, and 18-inch forged alloys wearing 225/40 Continentals. The package works, displaying predictable, confidence-inspiring traits at the track and, more important, grin-inducing grip (0.91 g). Making that grin even wider are a top speed of 160 mph and estimated combined fuel economy of 25 mpg.

Shortcomings? The F35 five-speed isn't as fluid or precise as others in the segment, namely the Civic Si's. The electric power steering is linear but lacks the tactility of, say, a Mazdaspeed 3's. The interior, with its hard plastic accoutrements, still screams econocar, despite new seats with UltraLux suedelike inserts. And there's some torque steer, even with GM's best trickery with electronics and suspension geometry.

Nevertheless, at only $22,995, the SS could stand for Super Steal. Even loaded with the $495 limited-slip differential (a must for the track), $750 sunroof, and $195 big wing, the SS still goes for under $25,000. Better yet, an SS sedan is coming for 2009. Either way, you'll be grinning big as you pity those old Corvettes in the rearview.

Want more? Check out our photo gallery of the 2008 Chevy Cobalt SS HERE