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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  Junk - 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Q43000gt - December 4 - 6:39 am

  This is my company car. It is junk! 14,000 miles and it is falling apart. The car is driven 100% city in mph zones less than 40mph, but it should not be this much junk. Brakes are shot Car has overheated more than five times. Something in the steering is going out (makes a weird noise when turning). 17mpg average over 14,000 miles (all city). Car has a hard time starting at times. Rattles in the snow.

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  40,000mi and counting - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By JLenga - December 4 - 4:28 am

  Ive had my 04 Cavalier for a little over 40K miles and has proven to be a great car, anywhere and in any season. I bought the car in March 05 w/28K on it, traded in a 99 Malibu. The thing I like most about the "Cavy" is the gas mileage both city and highway. Ive got it up to 39mpg once, and now that I live 3 miles from work, I only have to fill the tank once every two weeks, which is good considering gas prices. Other things I like are the handling and V6 like acceleration that comes from the low maintenance, high efficiency 2.2L Ecotec engine.

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  Love my car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By christi - December 3 - 12:01 am

  I drive my car a lot, and I absolutly love it. Its an older car, but I wouldnt want to get rid of it till it died on me, and once that happens ill definitely get another one like it. Its easy to drive, and it did great in the snow surprisingly. Ive taken it on road trips and it was pretty comfortable over a long drive. Wouldnt trade it for the world!

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  Better Than It Had To Be - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By oboles - December 1 - 10:34 pm

  Really nice exterior design. Put together very well. 67k miles over some very rough roads and still no annoying rattles in body. For a 4 cylinder is really a peppy little vehicle. Steering is exceptional. Great gas mileage average 28 mpg on reformulated gas. Up to 35 mpg on hwy w/non reformulated fuel. No mechanical problems w/car yet. If I had a gripe, it would be for better suspension. Load it up with 3 & 4 250-300 lb passengers and the ride is a little bumpy. But, with 1 or 2, ride is fine. Overall I have been very happy with the car. I believe it has been badly maligned and underrated. It really is better than it had to be. By the way, I also tow a 16 ft sailboat with it.

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  Vehice Is Great :) - 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Z24 - November 29 - 9:16 pm

  This 1992 Cavalier Z24, has been a very fast, fun, and comfortable vehicle to have. I have had it since I was 16, and am now 21. I bought it from my dad, on my 16th Birthday. Took it out, and wrecked it, then he repaired it for me. Ever since then, I have never had any other type of accident with this car. It has always started the whole 5 years I have had it. My friends at school, always wanted to ride in it, because it looked to cool. Its been a great car.

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  I was satisfied... - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Martin - November 28 - 12:22 am

  I bought my 2 door Cavalier w/manual transmision in 2002 as replacement for lease of the same brand and make. I drive anually about 30000 miles and that car did all the hard work for me. I properly maintained changed oil every 3K to 4K miles plus all the required maintenance. However I have to admit that car is loud, not comfortable, not even sporty - thank to decade old body and engine design, but it will do a run for you if you need. It has never let me down or broken on me even after 97 200 miles that I drove on it. I hope that new owner will like it because I just recently trade it for Honda. Good luck and many miles without problems.

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  Whits review - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Whitney - November 23 - 4:54 am

  This car has given me a fair amount of trouble. I have had to replace the motor and timing chain. The brakes are going out and the paint on the spoiler is starting to fade and chip away.It has not been very reliable for me.

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  Good for HS students - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By vegetasyjn5 - November 19 - 10:00 am

  This car has everything needed for a High School senior The sound system rocks i love the steering wheel feel on it. and the 60/40 split seats in back. the color is Graphite which next the the blue on the outside looks awsome.

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  1994 Z24 Convertible - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By mike hrabovsky - November 16 - 6:33 pm

  When I first saw the Z24 convertibles in the late 80s I wanted one but did not get one. Bought a beautiful 94 teal z24 convertible in summer of 96. I just love the style and looks of this car. Looks like a muscle car. Hood scoops, rear spoiler, and sporty looking wheels. Car has "guts" can get up to 80-90 mph in a hurry and holds the road real well. Have had now for 8 years and not too much trouble except for a goofy knack for blowing fuses on the power top, horn and door luck fuse (one fuse). Had the car checked by two mechanics and they had no explanation, but recommended I put in a circuit breaker fuse instead of a regular one and it has worked fine since. New top after 7 yrs old.

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  Good 1st car out of college - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By ddemania - November 11 - 7:08 pm

  Bought this car (Z24 Coupe) right out of college, and am now after 9-yrs moving on to bigger (mini-van) days. The car served me will through 9-yrs, some maintenance problems, especially in the last year which has pushed me to sell.