2005 Chevrolet Cavalier: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Chevrolet Cavalier ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $10,325 -$17,710
- Invoice: $9,757 -$16,559
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Chevrolet Cavalier
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier help you decide if a 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Cavalier and Sunfire have acceptable acceleration for the price class. Automatic transmission shifts smoothly, promptly. Manual transmission gives slightly livelier acceleration, but shift action is subpar.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6.7 |
Not great for small cars. Automatic-transmission examples averaged 19.7-21.2 mpg in our tests. No opportunity to measure manual-transmission models, but they should return slightly better mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.6 |
Slightly above the class norm with 14- or 15-inch wheels and standard suspension, though many bumps and ruts induce thumping. Available 16-inch wheels and sport suspension create more jiggle on rough pavement, but ride isn't unbearably stiff.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.4 |
Capable enough, but Cavalier and Sunfire lack the agile feel of some rivals. Available 16-inch wheels and sport suspension provide better cornering grip and response, though a recent test coupe showed poor straightline stability. Braking performance adequate with ABS, but, lamentably, that safety feature is optional on base models, unavailable on 1SV versions. Non-ABS test models haven't been made available.
QUIETNESS
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Class competitive for engine refinement. Wind and road noise evident at highway speeds, but no more than in most rivals; 16-inch tires create unwanted extra thrum.
CONTROLS
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Gauges unobstructed, but low-mounted climate controls difficult to see and reach. Interiors let down by low-grade, penny-pinching materials, poor fit and finish.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 5 |
As accommodating as most rivals. Low-set bucket seats make for sufficient head room, still let shorter drivers see over dashboard. Spongy seat foam unlikely to hold shape well as the years pass.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3.6 |
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 | 5.8 |
Cavalier and Sunfire are low-priced cars that are often discounted. But with a decade-old design, they feel ancient next to newer competitors and badly trail most for refinement, workmanship, and space efficiency. Sunfire emphasizes "expressive" styling, but does not offer the sedan body style most small-car buyers prefer.
Total Score
| LS sdn, auto. | LS Sport cpe, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 38 | 38 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 38
Scores for all Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
