It depends on what year range you are looking at. The quarter ton trucks like the Ranger, S10, Dakota, etc. can haul a little bit and get decent fuel mileage. The cons about buying these used is that these are the trucks that the kids buy so finding one that hasn't been ridden hard might be difficult.

As far as a Cobalt being "gay", I don't think it is. The only vehicle that comes to mind that might be considered gay for a guy to drive is a Dodge Neon. That is stock cars of course, if you get a lowered Miata with the loud rice burner muffler- yeah, your a gay douche.

Cars usually aren't "gay" if they aren't turned into a ricer, you're fine.

As a mechanic guy , a cobalt isn't a reliable vehicule. Lots of problems with motor and security system ( well here in Canada ). A good reliable vehicule if you want fuel economy are Toyota corola, honda civic ( skip 01-05 year ), mazda 3 for your average price. Yes those are imported vehicule but these are the most reliable after all in long terms.