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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  NICE LOOKING - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By KIMOLAND - June 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car in 2003, started hearing the wind from the drivers side, took it to a dealer they said it was the door. They wouldnt fix it because we didnt buy it from there. over all, it is a nice car, we got a great deal on it. Gas milage is not as Vhevy claimed, only makes about 23-26 range not 34MPG. Low profile tires made it so attached to the ground and handles better. a little loud engine from inside, not as bad from the outside.

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  A very reliable Chevy--98 Cavalier - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By matjag - June 18 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has had moderate to heavy usage since its purchase in December, 1997. It seems virtually indestructible in that it has required only oil changes, brake work, and new tires in the past 6.5 years. Very quick (2.4 litre engine) for a compact vehicle making it a joy to drive. The only drawback is its very low profile. At times it appears that kids on tricycles can reach down and touch the roof of the vehicle. The motor is still very quiet and smooth despite the 85,000 miles of Houston city driving. With minor supportive vehicle repairs, I see no reason why it cannot attain 150,000 -- 200,000 miles. This is the best automotive bargain Ive received.

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  Unbelievable - 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By gmman - June 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for 6 years. Of the 15 cars Ive owned over 20 years, this has been the most reliable, best investment I ever made. I was skeptical at first, but it has proven itself. I bought it with 113K miles and it now has 186K miles. Ive had very few, minor problems with it and until this week, the A/C froze me out on the hottest Florida days. Believe the compressor is still good hopefully just a leak.

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  98 Cavalier Sedan - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Tim Seekins - June 11 - 2:00 am

  The first thing I noticed after doing a machine test on this car was how incredibly noisy the engine is(since its closer to the driver than usual). For a 2.2, its horsepower isnt very good but the torque isnt bad. It was difficult to get the car up to 100 mph. The acceleration is decent and the mobility and turning is excellent. The transmission shifts rather quickly and rougher than usual. If your looking for a reliable-modest sedan... This is a car for you.

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  Gonna Drive this Until it Dies - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Derrick G - June 5 - 2:00 am

  I currently have just over 135,000 miles on this car and I bought it brand new. I have had no problems. (Just a couple of recalls that were taken care very quickly.) I still get over 30 miles per gallon. Its a little rough on the inside when compared to other vehicles, but it gets the job done.

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  Fun To Drive! - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Starchild - June 3 - 2:00 am

  This car is a lot of fun to drive. By far the best thing this car has going for it is the acceleration - this car goes! The car is a bit tight fitting for anyone over 6 feet tall (I am 510" and it is snug). On long trips over 3 hours your ass will be hurtin for sure. Mechanically, I have had a new problem with the car about every year. The water pump went out around 30K miles which from what I heard is common on GM vehicles. I also had some sort of hinge joint go out under the front driver side wheel which gave me a lot of creakin, a problem with the front breaks, and there was water leaking into one of the front headlights.

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  Not too bad for a platform this aged - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Daveee - June 3 - 2:00 am

  It is well known that the Cav is based an an aged platform. They have made updates, which can be seen in improved performance and the like. The car is relatively fun to drive. On the reverse side, the car rattles like no other, makes unusual noises, and does not have the most forgiving of manual transmissions. The car has rather poor fit and finish, and certain signs of age are already noticeable. Compared to my 2001 Chrysler Concorde LXi I would expect better gas mis mileage to be better.

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  Chevrolet Caviler 4 Door Sedan - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Joe12334 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  I think that this is a pretty good car for the price. It has a very powerful and responsive ECOTEC 2.2 V4, and is very reliable in getting from here to there. I think that they need to expand their ideas on the interior design because a lot of things in the interior are made from flimsy material.

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  my 2004 cavalier - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By winky681 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  i purchased my 2004 cavalier in december 2003. i really like the styling of my car and the dependability.the downside to my car is the stiff and bumpy ride. and the interior design is somewhat hampering. especially the cup holders and heating and air conditioning controls. controls are too low on the dash. and are hard to reach. especially if you are using the cup holders.

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  Not a bad little car - 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Not a bad car - May 20 - 2:00 am

  Well I bought the car in 1999 and it had around 50,000 miles on it. Around a month or two later the A/C compressor started grinding and was covered by warranty. Next after it was payed for the head gasket blew which was around $700.00 to fix which was a bargain considering the work. I still own the car that is the extent of the work that has been done on the car besides regular maintenance. Well last month i had my A/c recharged at that time the whole system was checked for any leaks and it was approved. Over all im satisfied with this car now it has just peaked at 100,000 miles and still running strong.