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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  Not a bad car at all, at least for me - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By p DuB - January 15 - 4:31 am

  I bought my 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier standard black coupe in November 2006. I like this car because it hasnt given me any problems yet. I hear very good and bad things about this car all the time, I dont really know who to believe. But, all I can say is that I own the standard 2002 coupe model with about 58,000 miles on it and it runs great. Ive had this car for about 2 months now and havent had any problems yet, but from what I have been hearing and reading about this car, Im ready for the worst that can happen with it. I havent changed the oil or anything on it yet, but I will very soon. Overall, its very reliable for a nice every day car for driving for fun, to work, or to school.

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  Can anyone say - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By LMXRacer - January 12 - 10:00 am

  I am a sport compact guy, domestic of course. I buy a sub $20,000 car, and modify it for racing, so I am hard on almost every aspect of the car, and both z-24s (my old 99 and my new 02) have held up extremely well. Of course I keep them maintained, but that goes without saying. An excellent base with which to build upon, if you are into this lifestyle as I am. With a few simple engine, exhaust, and tranny mods

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  2004 Coupe Auto - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By TIM - January 10 - 7:24 pm

  This is the third Cavalier weve had in the family. It is a great car, economical, comfortable, with all the features I need. You can buy them at a great price, too. So far, like my other Cavaliers, this one has been reliable and has returned a steady 31 MPG driving about 70% highway miles. Too bad Chevy doesnt make them anymore. The Cobalt is a nice car but costs more.

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  Editor must have never driven a cavalier - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Davierik - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Obviously the editor never actually drove a Chevy Cavalier. The interior is neither outdated or cheap. The power train has been redesigned to limit engine noise and reduce vibration. And my Cavalier can easily keep up with any car in its class.

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  My 2004 Cavalier Coupe1 - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By jdgryphix - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I love my 04 Cavalier. It is quite zippy, stylish, and feels good behind the wheel. I drive it back and fourth to work 35 miles each way and it is perfect for this or any other travel application. It is small enough that it is highly manuverable, yet large enough that I dont feel intimidated. A great car. Im sure the "Cobalt" will be even better.

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  2003 Cavalier - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By tracy - January 5 - 11:38 am

  This car as been fun to own and drive. It is comfortable for long trips and really good on gas. It runs great and the only issue Ive had is the rear turn signal lights which I believe was fixed with new circuit boards.

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  I Love this car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Jacob Platt - December 8 - 10:00 am

  My family has driven Honda civics, Toyota corollas, and Chevy cavaliers. Honda and Toyota are HIGHLY OVER RATED. Hondas burn oil, have fuel and electrical systems problems. Toyotas burn oil, have manifold problems leaking carbon monoxide into the passenger compartment. Chevys have proven solid through 5 knuckle-head teenage drivers, and within reach of 200,000 miles. So I bought a new 2003 cavalier and expect over 200,000 miles out of it.

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  Cheap Sports Coupe - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Matt - November 28 - 2:37 pm

  I bought this car 3 weeks ago and so far the only problems have been a burned out fog light and a CD player that doesnt work. The engine on this car is strong and reminds me of my V6 Cavalier in that its strong and responsive. Gas mileage isnt bad for a small car but could be better: 25 MPG. It rides a little harsh but thats what you get when you get the Z24. Exterior styling with the 16-inch wheels and black paint is attractive. The interior, while functional, is full of cheap plastics and rattles. I also dont like the location of the power window switches. I love the stereo and speakers though. Rear seat room is better than youd think and the seats are much nicer than in the base model.

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  Keeping it as log as possible - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Great little car - October 4 - 2:44 pm

  Took my big Ford F-150 off the road as gas was getting too expensive for the mileage I got on it. Bought the car with a lot of mileage and little rust. Runs great, great on gas. Close to 40 mpg. Put 12,000 miles on it with no problems. Replaced rear brakes and self installed a new heater core. Very little room under the dash. Im very impressed with the vehicle. Obviously the previous owner(s) took care of it especially up here in Maine with all the salt on the roads in winter

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  Cavalier is a worthy car to own one. - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Road Runner 2000 - September 16 - 8:51 am

  Driving control and stability is excellent, especially on highways, comparing to the car in the same segment such as Civic, Corolla and Focus. Surprisingly, its even better than Camary and Accord of the same year model. The acceleration is very impressive even though equipped with a shy horsepower engine. However, the engine is torquey. That compensates for the cars weight quite well. Fuel consumption is outstanding on highways and resonable in town. Cars appearance is handsome, and roomier than the like ones. C-Pillar looks very beautiful. I like this the best.