Chevrolet Cavalier
The third generation Chevy Cavalier saw a total redesign in 1995 with more aerodynamic styling, expanding dimensions, and taking minor design cues from the 4th Generation Chevrolet Camaro. While the base models had charcoal-colored bumpers, a bumper-integrated grille and a dipped beltline, the Chevrolet Cavalier offered coupe, sedan and convertible options. Gone was the wagon model, replaced by an LS Sedan that featured power windows and power door locks, with a choice of either 15 or 16 inch wheels. By 1997, the Chevy Cavalier became the best-selling car in GM's lineup.
All of the available engines were inline fours, foregoing the previous generations V6 engine option in favor of a four-cylinder that had similar power output. Base and RS models opted for the 122 Pushrod four-cylinder engine (2.2 L OHV), which was mainly mated to a 3-speed automatic. However, the 2-door models, particularly the RS versions, could be had with a 5-speed manual. A 4-speed automatic became an option in 1996.
The Z24 and LS Convertible both used a 2.3 L LD2 Quad-4 engine in 1995 but changed to the 2.4 L DOHC LD9 engine in 1996. The newer engine produced 150 hp (112 kW) and 155 lb·ft (210 N·m) of torque and was used until 2002, and was the mated the standard during that time with the Getrag F23 5-speed manual transmission only in the Z24 models. The LS and Z24 models had the option of a 4-speed automatic. The Z24 had two-door coupe models until 2001 and featured a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch tires, alloy wheels, and improved interior electronics, as well as a ground effects kit and taller spoiler. A 4-door Z24 Sedan debuted in 2000. The 3-speed automatic was dropped from the base models in 2001, leaving only the 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual options for the entire lineup. The RS was replaced by the LS Sport line at this time, featuring the Ecotec L61 motors (140 hp (104 kW) and 150 lb·ft (200 N·m) torque). Starting in 2003, the Ecotec motors replaced the GM 122 Pushrod Engine (2.2 L OHV) in base models.
A GM Eaton M45 Supercharger kit was also available for the Z24 trim, giving it an extra 40 hp (30 kW) and 40 lb·ft (54 N·m) of torque, raising its ratings to approximately 190 hp (142 kW) and 195 lb·ft (264 N·m) of torque. The Cavalier had two facelifts over its life: a minor one in 2000 and a major one in 2003 that included a new front end and different lift gate design.
In terms of safety, the Cavalier had low scores in crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. IIHS also gave the Cavalier a "Poor" overall score in their frontal offset collision test. It also had higher than average fatality rates with 150 (4 door) to 171 (2 door) driver deaths per million registered vehicle years, versus an average of 103 (4 door) to 134 (2 door) for its class. Most Cavaliers were built at Lordstown Assembly, although they have also been produced at other factories. Production of the third generation Chevy Cavalier ended on October 6, 2005.
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