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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  Chevy Makes great Engines - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By RedWolf4000 - March 29 - 10:00 am

  I am quite impressed with this 03 chevy cavalier. I used to drive a toyota corolla, 93, which was quite reliable but had many electrical problems, and started to eat up oil at 100k of its life. We have had many chevys into the 300ks and havnt ever felt the need to check the oil. First things first, this cavalier is fast (for its class and price) especially if you get the standard tranny. Nothing feels cheap about the interior or exterior and the car is very attractive. With dealer incentives off the msrp right now you cant go wrong. Stock stereo is great, although i got the highest package. Quick accel., 30mpg, great handling.

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  Poor Car - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Dave - March 27 - 10:57 am

  Bought this car for my wife against my better judgment. (cars reputation) I was told that they had improved build quality. They have not!! The car only has 55000 km on it and something breaks every week. All new brakes at 40k, fan speed switch, lower control arm bushings, broken rear defrost switch that required a complete heater control unit because you cant just change switch!! etc, etc! Everything squeaks! Not even close to being is the same league as my last Toyota or current Subaru. Cant wait to get rid of this car. I will never buy another GM!!!!

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  very good - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By uallreadyknoe - March 23 - 2:00 am

  it was a very good car it drives very smooth it was excellent really cofortabale as well i love the size of the car its more of a teen car to me thats why i like it cause im a teen myself its a great size its just a perfect little car or what not

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  a great small car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By studmuff - March 23 - 2:00 am

  We love this car.

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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Big Bear - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I asked a lot of people about their Cavalier before I purchased one. I never heard anything bad. All of them happy with the car especially the longevity of it. Cars going into the three hundred thousand range. The car is rated at 26 MPG around town and I am getting 33. No freeway at all, all stop and go driving. I like everything about the car, especially the 2.2 engine and 5spd. trans.

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  The Cool Car!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By matsounds - March 23 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun, fast, powerful and is just an all around great car to drive!!!!!

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  My Purple Baby - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By PurpleLady - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Even though I purchased this car in 1998, it has proven to be a very good choice for me....I love my Chevy and it is the first car I have purchased! It officially became my car this year and I would definitely buy a Cavalier again. Its dependable, reliable and I love the comfort I get from driving it in any season!!! I love my Chevy!!! :) Adrienne

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  loving the 04 cavailer - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By missysphs99 - March 23 - 2:00 am

  i LOVE the new cavalier! it makes 4- sedan fun and practical for young families. and the pick up is incredible.

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  great car for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By vermont maid - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I really like the car.the power i get from a 2.2L engine is amazing.my friend owns a 1997 with 4 kids which still is in great shape, turning me toward the cavalier.I would recoment this car to anyone wanting a semi-sporty car with a limited budget.

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  The fun car for fun people - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By tigress - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Purchased to replace 86 cavalier, and havent been sorry at all. Fun to drive, nice for scooting around town, easy to spot in the parking lot, purhased the yellow (WOW). Gas consumption is excellant. Overall one of the best purchases in a long while.