2003 Chevy Cavalier - Updated Styling and an All-New Engine
If you factor in the amazing incentives that GM dealers have been offering this past year the Cavalier just might be Canada's least expensive car. Well it looks like the incentives are getting better even though the new 2003 Cavalier is arriving in showrooms with new features and updated styling.
The changes are subtle as an all-new model isn't expected for another two years, but just the same the restyled hood, new headlights, updated front fascia with integrated color-keyed grille and new light-bar-style taillights dividing a redesigned decklid and freshened rear fascia give the aging model a new lease on life. Fog lights set into a deeper front fascia, plus an extended rear fascia and pronounced rocker moldings visually set the Z24 coupe and sedan apart from the more basic models.
The attractive interior has been kept virtually the same as last year's model with the exception of a redesigned steering wheel, standard 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks and a three-point seatbelt in the rear center position. The center stack contains a user-friendly 3-dial HVAC system at bottom and a 4-speaker AM/FM audio system just above in the base VL package. Want a CD? You have to opt for the VLX model while a premium system that adds a cassette player comes standard in the Z24 and optional in the VLX.
The very basic VX model doesn't include power windows, power door locks or air-conditioning but a center console armrest with a covered storage bin, plus an electric remote trunk release, tachometer and 2-speed wipers with fixed delay mode are standard. More creature comforts are added when you check VLX on the order sheet, including power windows, power door locks, power remote outside mirrors, a tilt steering wheel and floor mats. The Z24 option package candy coats the Cavalier with the aforementioned exterior styling enhancements as well as color-keyed trim. Additional features include 2-speed variably intermittent windshield wipers and sport cloth seating surfaces. Air-conditioning, optional on the VLX, also comes standard in the Z24 as does a cargo convenience net, cruise control and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, all of which are optional on both the base VL and VLX models. By the way the LS sedan, available last year, has been dropped for 2003.
While power brakes are standard and ABS is available the Cavalier makes due with rear drums even in Z24 trim. That said they're larger drums than last year improving braking performance. A sport suspension is added to this top model, improving on the Cavaliers fully-independent front suspension and semi-independent rear setup. Power rack-and-pinion steering is standard equipment offering fairly good directional response and decent straight-line stability at highway speeds. With all due respect Chevy needs to update this chassis architecture. It's old and past its due date. While I haven't driven the 2003 model yet, last year's Cavalier was not the most confidence inspiring package, at least in standard trim.
