Chevrolet Cavalier

Chevrolet Cavalier Models

The base-level Chevrolet Cavalier is offered in two body styles, a fastback coupe and a four-door sedan. The more plush LS comes with the sedan body only, while the sportier Z24 model is available only as a coupe. (The convertible is no longer offered.)

Base and LS models are powered by a 2.2-liter, ohv inline-4 that produces 115 horsepower. A more powerful 2.4-liter twin-cam four is standard on the Z24 models and optional on the LS. Base and Z24 models come with a German-built Getrag five-speed manual transmission, and offer an electronically controlled four-speed automatic as an option. All automatic Cavaliers have traction control, a premium feature in this class. Automatic transmission and traction control are standard on LS.

Additionally, LS pampers drivers and passengers with cruise control, an AM/FM four-speaker stereo with compact disc player, tachometer, trip computer, variable intermittent wipers, remote trunk release, tilt steering column, and 15-inch wheels.

Z24 models come with a sports suspension, 16-inch cast aluminum wheels; remote keyless entry; power windows, mirrors and door locks; fog lamps and other generally cool stuff.

Driving the Chevrolet Cavalier

Our LS sedan was equipped with the optional 2.4-liter twin-cam engine that provides 150 horsepower and 155 pounds-feet of torque. Because the car weighs less than 2700 pounds, it boasts a favorable horsepower-to-weight ratio and, more importantly, torque-to-weight ratio, for scooting away from intersections. With the twin-cam engine, the Cavalier is no rocket, but it does have zip, and it cruises comfortably at relatively high speeds.

Under brisk acceleration our LS wound quickly through the gears of its electronically controlled automatic transmission without any noticeable surges. This transmission works well around town, keeping the engine in its best operating range at lower speeds.

Even with the 2.2-liter, overhead-valve four-cylinder engine, the Cavalier is surprisingly spunky. However, the droning exhaust note it makes is uninspiring at best.

The Chevrolet Cavalier is a much better car with the four-speed automatic than it is with the three-speed automatic available as an option on the base model. Its three gears are farther apart, forcing the engine to stretch under hard acceleration.

The Cavalier handles reasonably well with a stiff chassis that enables the suspension to do its job. There's a slight twitch when hitting a bump in the middle of a quick corner, possibly a foible of Cavalier's twist-beam rear suspension. But the Cavalier handles most bumps with a steady attitude and a modicum of comfort. Power steering is light and responsive and the Cavalier quickly turns in for corners. This car is light on its feet and can accommodate both conservative and sporty driving styles.

Cavalier's solenoid-based anti-lock braking system (standard) can be a real ally in an emergency maneuver because it allows the driver to steer the car in a panic braking situation. Just remember to keep hard pedal pressure on the brakes and don't forget to steer. This system really adds value and safety to the Cavalier; some other compacts offer it only as part of a deluxe equipment package, or not at all.