The Chevrolet Cobalt lineup is expanded by a new "SS"-model for 2006. Powered by a 2.4l 4-cylinder with 171hp, the Cobalt SS fits in between the "LT" and "SS Supercharged" models. In contrast to the latter, the "SS" is available in coupe and sedan bodystyles.

A revision of the model-designations now lists the former "Base" model as the "LS", the "LS" as "LT", and "LT" as the 2006 "LTZ"; the features included with the packages remain unchanged, though. Two new colors, Majestic Amethyst and Laser Blue, are the only other changes for 2006.

The 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Compact Sedan compares to the Dodge Neon, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta; the Compact Coupe competes with the Acura RSX, Honda Civic, Hyundai Tiburon, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Pontiac G6, and Scion tC.