GM debuts 'XFE' green line with 36MPG Chevrolet Cobalt

Following a trend started by a number of European carmakers, GM has revealed a new ‘XFE’ (E)Xtra Fuel Economy labeling system which has debuted on the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. Cars badged with the new XFE logo feature a number of fuel economy improvements and on the Cobalt ensures the car is among the “most fuel-efficient compacts on the market.”

The Cobalt with a manual transmission rates at just 36mpg for a mix of city and highway driving and is bettered only by the Honda Civic. However, the Cobalt’s 2.2L EcoTec engine is one of the largest units in its segment and delivers a best-in-class 148hp and 152lb-ft of torque.

GM has been quiet about the launch and details of its fuel saving technologies but according to AutoSavant the cars feature improved engine calibration and tires with lower rolling resistance. This new fuel mileage improvement comes standard on LS and 1LT models and is marked by the aforementioned XFE badge.

GM is actually late to the table in offering a new efficiency line for its regular production models. Volkswagen and Audi were one of the first with their respective BlueMotion and ‘e’ series of cars, and Ford too offers the new ECOnetic range and even luxury brands BMW and Mercedes have their own EfficientDynamics and FE range.