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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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 Cavalier LS - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By raseco - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Since buying my car used in 97, I have never had a problem w/ this car. Other than the normal maintenance and upkeep, I have not had to replace any other parts.

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  Lots of giddy-up but few amenities - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By bfk - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive. The engine is very responsive. Handles and corners very well. No problems mechanically so far. Mileage around 27 mpg.

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  Run, save your money - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Tiffers - August 27 - 2:00 am

  After buying this as a certified car from a GM Dealer it has practically fallen apart. Thank god for the extended warranty we bought. It has covered $500 in electrical work and $680 for replacement of a water pump. Yes, replacing the water pump cost $780 because of the amount of labor it takes to work on the Olds engine stuffed into the engine compartment.

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  Perpetual Rent-a-Car - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By julmak - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This car will get you from point A to point B, but there is nothing special occupy you while you’re in transit. Only one problem - the catalytic converter went bad. The front driver- side tire "chirps" as I drive, but no one has been able to fix it. Cavalier has been consistently listed as the worst passenger/family sedan in terms of safety by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_rating s/ce/html/summary_midinexp.htm# http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_rating s/ce/html/photo_comp_midinexp.htm According to CR, if you were T-boned in a Caviler on the drivers side, youre almost certain to have a permanent or fatal injury.

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  good car - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By sean gatewood - August 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with low miles and have driven the car into the ground and it still starts and gets me there every day. It has been a great school car for a good price it has never failed me. I have never replaced the cluch exaust or anythiing for that matter outside of an altranator and battery.

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  I like it !!!!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Josandi - August 23 - 2:00 am

  i just bought this car with only 7 miles on it (12/31/02)(date bought) today (1/2/02) and i put 190 miles all with the same tank of gas that the dalear filled up with and its just below the 1/2 tank mark,,great car i love it,,i say to all get a cavalier

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  Very Pleased - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By TrendEOne - August 21 - 2:00 am

  Much better handling than Cavs of the past. Very stylish lines, and the factory body kit is just enough. Surprisingly peppy for a four banger.

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  Lucky Cav Owner - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By decentcavalier - August 20 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for a year and 32,000 miles and absolutely no problems. You cant expect much from this car other than taking you from point A to B and it does it quite well. Dont expect great 0-60 times or cornering or anything to do with performance this is strictly a commuter car and those who complain about it should be looking at other models. Great as a your first car, then move on to bigger and better things. Keep the car for as long as you have it financed because the resale value is crap, you will be loosing a lot of money if you want to get rid of it before time.

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  Who would have believed it? - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By kmay - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Bought my 1996 LS with 26k miles on it in September 1997. What a pleasant surprise this car has turned out to be! Still rolling at 126,800 miles. I get 35 mpg on long highway trips, 24 in the city. No special work - except a new alternator and starter last year. The oil light has been on for 2.5 years, but 6 different mechanics have said there is no leak - its just the sensor. Paint has held up - no chips, no dents.

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  Cant complain! - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By richard123321 - August 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the Z24 since new and have 90,000 miles on it. The only real repair was a front wheel bearing at 70,000 miles. Besides that only normal maintenance costs (fluid changes, tires and brakes) have been required. The car runs like new! Ive changed the oil every 4000 miles and changed the tranny fluid every 40000 miles. I wish that I had a good reason to switch cars since Im kinda getting tired of looking at it! I would consider another GM were it not for their steep depreciation. Makes for a great used car buy!