2004 Chevrolet Cavalier: Road Test
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2004 Chevrolet Cavalier ▼
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- MSRP: $10,135 -$17,610
- Invoice: $9,578 -$16,465
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Our road test for the 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier help you decide if a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 |
All Cavaliers and Sunfires have acceptable subcompact performance. Automatic transmission shifts smoothly, promptly. Manual transmission gives slightly livelier acceleration, but shift action subpar.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6.6 |
Not great for subcompacts. With automatic transmission, test Cavaliers and Sunfires averaged 19.7-21.2 mpg. Haven't measured fuel economy with manual transmission, but it should be slightly better.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.4 |
Slightly above the class norm with 14- or 15-inch wheels and standard suspension, though many bumps and ruts induce thumping. Cavaliers and Sunfires with 16-inch wheels and sport suspension jiggle more on rough pavement, but aren't unbearably stiff.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.3 |
1SV, base, and LS Cavaliers--and Sunfire SEs--are capable enough, but lack the agile feel of some rivals. Cavaliers and Sunfires with 16-inch wheels and sport suspension have better cornering grip and response, though a recent test coupe had poor straightline stability. Braking competitive with ABS, but lamentably, it's optional on base models, unavailable on 1SV. We haven't tested a Cavalier or Sunfire without ABS.
QUIETNESS
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Engine class competitive for noise, refinement. Wind, road noise evident on highway, but no more than in most rivals. Sixteen-inch tires create additional tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
Gauges unobstructed, but low-mounted climate controls difficult to see and reach. Low-grade, penny-pinching materials, poor fit and finish plague Cavalier/Sunfire interiors.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 5.1 |
As accommodating as most rivals. Low-to-the-floor bucket seats make for sufficient head room, still let shorter drivers see over dashboard. Spongy seat foam may not hold shape well as the years pass.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3.9 |
Backrest is hard, cushion uncomfortably soft and short. Entry/exit a chore in coupes.
CARGO ROOM
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Trunk opening too small for really large objects, but space is good. Large glovebox, but cabin storage average otherwise.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 5.6 |
Cavalier and Sunfire are low-priced cars that are often discounted. But their design dates from 1995, and they feel ancient next to newer competitors and badly trail most for refinement, workmanship, and space efficiency. Sunfire emphasizes "expressive" styling, but no longer offers the sedan body style most small-car buyers prefer.
Total Score
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 38 | 38 | 48.4 |
Total Score: 38
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