1996 Chevy Cavalier Review
1996 Chevy Cavalier Review

Used Cavalier for sale
Appraise This CarChevrolet Cavalier model years
Chevrolet Cavalier types
- Sedan
- Coupe
- Convertible
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
What’s new
The 2.3-liter Quad 4 is replaced after just one year by a 2.4-liter twin-cam engine. Four-speed automatic transmission includes traction control. Daytime running lights debut, remote keyless entry is optional on LS and Z24 and base models get new interior fabrics and an Appearance Package.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2dr Coupe and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.12 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$145/mo for Cavalier Base
Cavalier Base
vs
$168/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
For more than a decade, the Cavalier has been a staple sales leader for Chevy dealers. Understandably so, because the Cavalier offered reasonable value and was priced low enough to compete with many smaller, but more modern, automobiles. The undeniable fact of the matter, however, was that the Cavalier had been around for 14 years with only minor styling changes and few modifications.
Last year, an all-new Cavalier debuted, and we are duly impressed. The only shortcomings with the new car are the sluggish and loud base engine, the low seating positions, and the odd distortions evident in the lower corners of the windshield.
GM's venerable 2.2-liter four cylinder, whose droning exhaust note you are no doubt familiar with, is standard in the Cavalier. Equipped with this powerplant, the Cavalier lags behind its primary competition, the Dodge Neon, in power and acceleration. Optional in sedans and convertibles is a new 2.4-liter twin cam hooked to a four-speed automatic transmission that features traction control. The Cavalier is a much more livable car with this engine, and we wish that Chevrolet offered this powertrain in the base coupe as well.
The sporty Z24 coupe is available with the twin-cam engine, and in this application can be equipped with either automatic or manual transmission. Five-speed models are as quick as the Neon Sport Coupe from rest to 60 mph.
At just one year of age, Chevrolet is already taking steps to improve the Cavalier. The twin-cam engine replaces last year's 2.3-liter Quad 4, and the four-speed automatic's traction control system is new. Cavalier also receives new fabrics in base models, a PASSLock security system, optional remote keyless entry and new radios. Daytime running lights have been added, and base sedans can be gussied up with an Appearance Package consisting of body-color fascias and moldings, touring tires and bolt-on wheel covers. Two new paint colors are new for 1996, and long-life 100,000-mile coolant has been installed in all engines.
Overall, we think Chevy has a winner here. The styling is attractive and contemporary. The interior is comfortable and well laid-out. Antilock brakes are standard equipment. And, best of all, the price is dead on; low enough to make the four-door Geo Metro an exercise in redundancy. We think the Cavalier will be a big hit for Chevrolet, and recommend that you check it out if a compact car fits your needs.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
5 star(37%)
4 star(35%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(11%)
1 star(4%)
72 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
1.5 out of 5 stars
crap
bad choice, 09/16/2004
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 4dr Sedan
This car is crappy. Not only is it
ugly,it's crap!!! i hate my cavalier, i
have spent 19,600 something, repairing
it so far, yes, nearly 20 grand of
repairs for this 15 grand car. WHYdo u
ask,well i don't know, BUT CAVALIERS
ARE THE WORST CARS EVER!!!!!!!!!!
4 out of 5 stars
Wicked car - Cavalier 1996
Kiprotich Arap-Ruto, 11/14/2007
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier LS 4dr Sedan
I looked at a number of cars before buying my Cavalier 1996. Its price was great and condition pretty good. It drives very well. I had to replace the gas tank (got a used one for a good price and free labor). Overall a very good car.
1 out of 5 stars
Bad Chevy
Usedtolikechevys, 03/28/2002
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier LS 4dr Sedan
Bought this car still under factory warrenty. Immediately the lifters started knocking, interior rattled, muffler began making an obnoxious rattle. Right after Chevy sent a notice that the head gaskets were defective the engine blew up. Next engine has had nothing but problems - emissions and drivability. 2 dealers and 1 independant shop cannot figure it out.
1 out of 5 stars
Cavaliers are BAD buys
Molly, 10/08/2002
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 4dr Sedan
Everything has gone wrong with this car
in the past year. From the motor mounts
to the rack in the rack and pinion
steering to the struts.
1996 Cavalier Highlights
Sedan
Base
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 26 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $145/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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