Overview & Reviews

Born in the early '80s, the Chevrolet Cavalier was General Motor's attempt to regain market share that had been lost to Japanese manufacturers who had been the first to recognize the public's need for compact, more fuel-efficient transportation. Though inferior to its competition in most respects, the Cavalier proved to be a hit with consumers, emerging as a consistent sales leader for Chevrolet.

The Cavalier's success was built in large part on the value it offered, though updates were few and far between. The Cavalier was on the market from 1982-2005, and in those 24 years, there were only two generations. Still, despite the fact that many models were built on aged platforms relative to the competition, the Chevrolet Cavalier enjoyed popularity, largely because of its irresistibly low price.

One significant factor to consider when deciding whether a Cavalier is right for you is safety. Throughout its life cycle, the Cavalier has received poor to lukewarm crash test scores. Another is overall quality. Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.

Resale value has been low for Cavaliers, making them an extremely affordable option. Still, in light of its shortcomings, we'd recommend that those shopping in this category consider other alternatives, such as later-model Korean imports.

Most Recent Chevrolet Cavalier

The Chevrolet Cavalier's second and most recent generation was built from model-year 1995-2005. Cavaliers built in 1995-2000 were available as sedans, coupes and convertibles, but as of 2001, drop-top versions of this Chevy were dropped from the lineup.

Trim levels varied over this generation's 10-year run. Chevrolet offered base, LS and Z24 trims for the majority of the time but later changed the lineup to just base, LS and LS Sport. The standard features list on base-model Cavaliers included little more than air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo.

When the second-generation Chevy Cavalier was first unveiled, buyers had a choice of two engines. Base models were motivated by a 2.2-liter, 120-horsepower four-cylinder. Those seeking more power could choose a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine ("Quad4") good for 150 hp. After just one year, the 2.3-liter was replaced with an updated 2.4-liter version that also made 150 hp.

A new 2.2-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, "Ecotec" four-cylinder engine appeared in the Cavalier for the first time during the 2002 model year. While base Cavaliers continued with the ancient OHV 2.2-liter four and the Z24 still had the 2.4-liter unit, the 140-hp Ecotec was a clear improvement over any previous Cavalier power plant in terms of overall drivability and refinement. The 2.4-liter engine was dropped in 2003.

Although there weren't any redesigns in the final 10 years of the Cavalier's life, the model did see some upgrades. In 1999, the 2.4-liter engine was refined to improve reliability, emissions and fuel economy. And in 2000, the car was given a smoother-shifting manual transmission; its antilock brake system was also improved, and it saw exterior revisions like new body-colored front and rear fascias and new headlights and taillights. The car's exterior was updated once again in 2003, and XM Satellite Radio became available as an option. Audiophiles should know that in 2004, the base-model Cavalier was given an improved stereo, with CD and MP3 playback capability.

One unfortunate Cavalier hallmark is its dated interior. Build quality is subpar and materials quality leaves a lot to be desired. Seats also miss the mark when it comes to comfort. On the plus side, though, later models are available with both OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.

In editorial reviews, the Chevrolet Cavalier was praised for offering acceptable handling and power, and a reasonably compliant ride. Cons included a dated platform and poor crash test scores. In consumer reviews, the car was praised for its fuel economy but panned for its dull interior styling.

Past Chevrolet Cavaliers

The first-generation Chevy Cavalier existed from 1982-'94. Standard features amounted to little more than an AM/FM audio system. A Cavalier wagon was available, in addition to the coupe, sedan and convertible. (The wagon was dropped with the second generation.) There was also the sporty Z24 variant, which debuted in 1986 and offered a spunky V6, a firmer suspension, alloy wheels and obligatory tape graphics.

With such a long spell between redesigns, Cavaliers built in the '90s offered a positively ancient platform compared to the competition. The model did see some tweaks over the years, though. In 1991, the Cavalier received sheet metal revisions. The following year, ABS joined the standard features list, and base engines saw hp increase by 15 to 110. In 1994, base engines saw another horsepower boost, up 10 hp to 120. Air-conditioning, a sunroof and a CD player were all available as options.

Again, resale values on these Chevys are low. Other than bargain-basement prices, though, these older Cavaliers have little to offer.

User Reviews:

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  2000 Cavalier 4 Dr. Sedan - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Chongsah - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This car has positives: nice body style, good gas mileage, nice interior, etc. However, something is not right with the ABS. Kind of scary. When brakes are applied (while slowing down to turn, stopping, etc. even on dry pavement), theres a hum, a vibration under your foot through the brake pedal, brakes lock up anyway and Ive slid (in snow) before the car stops. A few times, I was afraid I wasnt going to be able to stop in time and no, I wasnt driving fast at all, driving through residential streets. Also, power window on front passenger side stopped working after only 40K miles. Difficult to get in and out of the back seats, even though its a 4 door.

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  2001 Z24 - Its still just a Cavelier - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By eng21 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive...when Im not bothered by all of the rattles and other noises inside the cabin. I can hear about 3 different noises at once sometimes. Im very dissatisfied with the build quality of this car. It looks decent, performes decently, but sounds like its falling apart already, and its only about 2 years old. Transmission was replaced at 17,000k due to rattling noise in lower gear. I still hear a different noise when shifting at lower RPM (i.e. < 2700 RPM). I should have bought the Civic. Hind sight is 20/20

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  Fun little ragtop for the money - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By fradel61 - February 15 - 2:00 am

  This wasnt my first choice for a replacement vehicle, but in retrospec I really enjoy this little car. It has some zip to it. Nicely equipped anti-locks, cd player pw/w/l ect. The front end has a tendency to pitch on curves and handling is only so-so.You feel every bump in the road, but for the money dont expect the handling of a Viper. Great car to just drive with the top down and the music playing. Would I buy it again....yeah I think so.

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  Z24 Coupe - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Americanred - February 14 - 2:00 am

  This being my 3rd Cavalier you can see that I am partial to the J-Body. This car is the nicest looking Compact (from the outside) in my opinion. It might not be able to keep up with some of the super compacts coming out in the next few years however it is a fun, inexpensive car that is easy to take care of. Thats what I was looking for.

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  This car is satan itself - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By dmr028 - February 13 - 2:00 am

  Time chain went $650 Fuel regulator $350 Radator $750 Head gaskets $800 (I only had the car 6 months and miles were just over the warranty in 99 - I have no speeding tickets either!) 4 recalls in the time Ive owned the vechile. DONT BUY THIS CAR YOU WILL GO BROKE FIXING IT!!!

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  NICE!! - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By WillysCavi - February 13 - 2:00 am

  for as much horsepower as it says it has, it sure does get up and go(when the ac is off).

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  Our Cavalier Z24 - 1990 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Traci & Rob - February 11 - 2:00 am

  I would recommend to anyone buying a used car that the Z24 is a grat car to buy. She handles real well. Love the power when shifting gears.

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  Practical and classy - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By ccvi - February 10 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle was comfortable, efficient, responsive and performed well both in city and open road driving. The extra boost needed from the engine when passing another vehicle was always just a press on the pedal away. It hugged the road giving a feeling of security and safety. Seat design gave support and comfort with its easy adjustment capacity. There is more space for both front and back seat passengers than in some larger model cars. There were no major engine problems during the 128,000 miles the vehicle was driven. Regular maintenance brought the result of not even an oil leak, even at 128,000 miles.

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  96 cav - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By 96chevy - February 6 - 2:00 am

  Just getting rid of this car after over 103,000 miles due to a blown gasket. Only other significant repair was air conditioning system around 75,000 miles. It was a reliable, affordable car.

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  Excellent Car - 1990 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Gregory Jackson - February 3 - 2:00 am

  My car was purchased new I have 378K miles and never had any engine work. It does not leak any oil.Ive put new belts,alternator,plugs and wires. But that basic maintenance on a vehicle. I put new chrome rims and tires on about 4 years ago. I need a new A/C compressor and will be getting a paint job soon. As for engine work it runs great. Its the Heartbeat of America!!