2000 Chevrolet Cavalier: Road Test
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2000 Chevrolet Cavalier ▼
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- MSRP: $13,160 -$16,365
- Invoice: $11,398 -$15,301
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Our road test for the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier help you decide if a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 5 | 3.7 |
The base engine furnishes adequate acceleration but has no power to spare with automatic transmission. The 2.4 liter is faster and works better with automatic than do many twin-cam fours.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
We averaged 23.8 mpg in a test of a 2.2-liter sedan with automatic transmission, and 23.0 in a 2.4-liter convertible with automatic--not great for economy cars.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
Ride quality is above the subcompact-class average, though most bumps and ruts are accompanied by a loud thump. Z24s and Sunfire GTs ride more stiffly.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 6 | 4.3 |
Like their Sunfire SE counterparts, base and LS Cavaliers corner with adequate grip and moderate body lean. Z24s and Sunfire GTs have handling that's above the class norm.
QUIETNESS
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
Both engines are noisy when pushed hard, but settle down at cruising. Wind and road noise are evident on the highway, but no more than in most subcompact cars
CONTROLS
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Gauges and controls are unobstructed and clearly labeled. Power windows are unavailable on base coupes.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.2 |
Cavaliers and Sunfires are as roomy as most any competitor. Low-to-the-floor front bucket seats make for generous headroom and still allow shorter drivers to easily see over the dashboard.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 2 | 2.8 |
The back seat is adequate for two adults or three children.
CARGO ROOM
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
The trunk opening is too small to easily load large objects, but cargo space is good. The rear seatback folds, though it can't be locked to separate trunk from interior.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.2 |
They don't match the refinement of Japanese subcompacts, but Cavalier and Sunfire include plenty of useful standard features and should be available with discounts to their already attractive list prices. Cavalier edges out Sunfire as the better overall value.
Total Score
| Base cpe, man. | LS sdn, 2.4 I4 auto. | Z24, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | 37 | 37 | 41.7 |
Total Score: 36
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