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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  Heap of junk - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By marko - December 7 - 10:00 am

  You get what you pay for. Broke down 3 time in 6 months. Major electrical problems.

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  Good Decision - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Diane - December 6 - 5:58 pm

  My husband and I just bought the car earlier this month but we researched it a lot prior to buying it and test drove many cars before making our decision. So far I am really enjoying it and we are very pleased with it.

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  Nice little car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Darrell Hovermale - December 4 - 11:29 am

  I purchased this car in Feb. 04, primarily for a commuter car. So far it has been very reliable. It just has a likeability. Also the $4,000 rebate GM was offering at that time influenced my decision to purchase. Our other car is a 2000 Honda Civic that my wife drives. Its also a great little car, but I prefer to drive the Chevy.

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  reliable but plain - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Chris - December 2 - 6:59 pm

  When I got this car it already had 80,000 miles on it. That was 18 months ago and Ive put on about 50,000 of my own. I think this car will last forever as long a its taken car of. Ive had only minor problems with it. It needed a new coolant cap because it was leaking. Also had a rusted coil, but was very cheap to fix. Gets great gas mileage but its a manual shift so that helps. Its much more fun to drive as a stick shift. I just going to drive it till it dies considering how much i have to drive for work each year. The moon roof works great and all the interior features still work too. No problems as of yet.

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  Nice to drive and own, Looks sharp! - 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Red1 - December 2 - 1:04 am

  Easy to handle, eases in and out of traffic, great handling, looks sharp, comfortable for me, maybe not for larger individuals, sporty style....

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  A love/hate relationship - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By nhblmb - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car a little over a month ago and it was the biggest mistake I made. The seats are so-o-o uncomfortable! The unadjustable lumbar is a killer. Im out of work now with a sprained back!

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  GREAT OVERALL CAR - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By DCB2122 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car you can find for the price. The new ecotec engine is great, I love the power and fuel economy. The interior does need to be a little more comfortable. Softer seats. Move ac/heater controls highter, and stop the floor mats from sliding.

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  Stay out of the wind - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By rhendryx - November 30 - 5:31 pm

  I bought the 2004 Cavalier strictly as an economical "drive to work" car. I liked the low price with the rebates and the looks arent bad. However, when on the highway if there is any cross wind you cant keep it on the road. It will change lanes by itself if you dont pay close attention. Also, what 1950s design engineer came up with the bright idea of using a cartridge oil filter instead of the spin on type? I can see why the 2005 model is the last year for Cavalier.

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  Perfect For Me - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Lorrie99415 - November 29 - 12:49 am

  Got this car used, and was a little worried about some things I had heard. So far so good though. Being in college it gets me where I need to go in comfort and style, has plenty of pep, feels nice and sturdy to drive and doesnt cost much in gas at all. Could use an extra cup holder, but other than that I have no complaints. Would definately recommend this as a first car for anyone who is not sure what to get.

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  my second hwy trotter - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By jfp1042a - November 19 - 2:00 am

  my second one the first 1 gave me 190000 miles with no repairs oh yes a water pump condidering that i drive 40000 miles a year the cav is mrs old reliable and not a money pit either excellent superb in snow to roomy spacious enoiugh even 4 a big guy rar to in my 4 doors good heating sys decent satero good instruments to improve...... seats and larger brakes and all 4 disks please