Introduction

Chevrolet Cavalier is designed to offer a compelling value. Relatively unchanged for 2004, the Cavalier will be replaced for 2005 with an all-new compact called the Cobalt. Buyers should watch for rebates and other incentives on 2004 Chevrolet Cavaliers. Last year's (2003) styling revisions freshened the looks of the Cavalier. Coupes and sedans are available. The coupes look sportier, while the sedans offer the advantage of four doors and roomier rear seats. Otherwise, they are essentially the same. Cavalier's base retail price is $14,045. However, LS models are better equipped, with power windows, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, and other convenience features most of us now take for granted, and an LS sedan starts at $15,815. LS Sport models come with sport suspensions and special trim. XM Satellite Radio and OnStar are available. Coupe or sedan, the Cavalier handles well, with little body lean in the corners, and it rides well, doing a good job of damping road vibration on rough roads. The chassis was revised for 2003. All Cavaliers are powered by GM's newly developed Ecotec 2.2-liter engine, which offers responsive performance, excellent fuel economy, and low emissions.

Walkaround

Styling revisions freshened the appearance of the Chevy Cavalier for 2003. For 2004, a gold Chevy bowtie replaces last year's silver crossbar applique. Otherwise, its appearance is unchanged. The front and rear of the car were redesigned for 2003, and the LS Sport model received new rocker moldings and integrated fog lamps. The front end displays Chevy's new gold bowtie emblem. Bright colors are available, including Rally Yellow and Sunburst Orange Metallic. The Cavalier is an attractive car with flowing lines, rounded fenders and a low-to-the-road attitude. Relatively slender A-pillars and C-pillars enhance driver visibility and contribute to the light, airy feel of the upper body. Dual side mirrors are tucked nicely into the A-pillar. The Coupes look sportier than the Sedans. LS Sport models stand out with body-color door handles and mirrors, Sport front and rear fascia, integrated fog lamps, lower rocker moldings, a rear spoiler, chrome exhaust outlet, and 16-inch chromed aluminum wheels with performance tires.

Interior Features

Chevrolet Cavalier has a nice interior design and the interior materials appear to be of decent quality. A hood over the instruments sweeps organically over to the passenger side giving it a contemporary appearance. The thick, contoured steering wheel in the LS Sport Sedan feels good. Power window switches are located on the center console, however, harder to find and more awkward to operate than when they're on the door. The driver's window has an Auto-Down feature. Cavalier offers interior roominess comparable for the class. Sedan models have a little more headroom and shoulder room in front than the Coupes, but legroom is identical. The LS seats are contoured and comfortable, but side support could be better for cornering. Five cup holders are provided. The back seat is surprisingly roomy in the Sedan. There's decent rear headroom, albeit a bit restricted on the outboard side. The rear seat folds down and is split 60/40 for added versatility. The Coupe offers less room in the back seats, but they are still quite usable. LS Sport Coupes get an easy-entry front passenger seat, improving access to the back. GM's LATCH system (Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHildren) allows installation of compatible child-safety seats without using the seatbelt. An AM/FM/CD/MP3 player ($150) is available for 2004 models. XM Satellite Radio ($325 plus subscription) is also available, eliminating the need to change from your favorite music stations when traveling. The 24-hour news channels are available along with sports programming and a hundred other stations.