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2003
Chevrolet Cavalier

Starts at:
$14,030
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New 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Cpe
    Starts at
    $14,030
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn
    Starts at
    $14,230
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Cpe LS
    Starts at
    $15,530
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LS
    Starts at
    $15,730
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Cpe LS Sport
    Starts at
    $16,830
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LS Sport
    Starts at
    $17,030
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier

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Expert 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

Chevrolet Cavalier soldiers on another year, outdated and outgunned by the imports but still offering solid and sporty transportation at a bargain price.

Cavalier remains the best selling automobile for all of General Motors. Cavalier was revamped in 1995 with a new body and interior, plus mechanical upgrades that turned it from a chunky economy car into a tight and sharp-looking little cruiser.

For 2003, the basic shape remains, though freshened with new front and rear styling, and can be ordered with monochromatic body parts, a new spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels that make the little Chevy look something akin to a tuned import.

There’s also a new standard engine, a twin-cam four that delivers 140 horsepower.

But let’s not forget the major upgrade best appreciated by the young target audience: optional XM radio that offers 100-channel, fade-free audio. For those who believe a great audio system is the key component to a great ride, Cavalier has taken on a new sheen.

What it is:

Cavalier is Chevrolet’s cheapest car, a little runabout with a stylish body that’s an enduring favorite among young drivers, especially females.

Cavaliers rest on a platform that’s more than two decades old, and small-car engineering has moved a long way since then. Steering and handling are responsive but lack the sophistication of the import brands. GM promises that Cavalier will be upgraded to the platform of the new Saturn Ion in the near future.

Engine and transmission:

The standard “Ecotek” engine is a four-cylinder, aluminum 2.2-liter mill that also is found in the Ion. With 140 horsepower, Ecotek has plenty of pull for this 2,600-pound car. This is a major improvement over the standard 115-horse engine that formerly struggled to motivate Cavalier.

The downside to Ecotek is a noisy harshness that compares unfavorably with smooth four-bangers such as those found in Honda Civic and Mazda Protege. This is a problem with GM fours. They put out decent power but feel downright agricultural. GM has expended serious time and money to quiet this engine, including the installation of twin balance shafts. It could still be better.

The five-speed stick shift felt notchy, though the gears were well-spaced for performance.

Handling, drivability:

Though Cavalier sits on an ancient chassis, the steering and cornering are crisp and responsive. The steering would benefit from less power boost and more road feel. It helped that the LS Sport Coupe as tested comes standard with a firmer sport suspension and low-profile performance tires, with rack-and-pinion steering standard across the board. The old platform becomes noticeable over rough surfaces, when Cavalier is felt flexing, vibrating and skittering to the side. Otherwise, the ride is secure and comfortable.

Front-disc, rear-drum brakes are unexceptional, with fairly good stopping power . Anti-lock is standard in the upgraded LS, optional on the base models.

Styling:

The two-door sport coupe, in bright yellow, looked appropriately sporty with monochromatic trim, rear spoiler, integrated fog lamps and lower body ground effects. The Cavalier still tends toward the cute side of the equation, and the overall style seems more appropriate to a young female than a snarling boy racer. The 16-inch aluminum wheels look very sharp.

The body design is 8 years old, and although updated for 2003 and reasonably attractive, it doesn’t really stand out as anything special. Hopefully the next transformation will bring Cavalier’s looks up to date.

Interior:

The front seats have been upgraded, becoming more supportive than those in past Cavaliers, but the interior is cramped for anyone taller or bigger than average. For this tall driver, finding a comfortable driving position was impossible, settling for a tilted-up steering wheel and re ard-raked seat.

The rear seat supposedly has room for three abreast, but only young children or really small adults will find happiness back there. Otherwise, treat it strictly as room for two.

Side-impact air bags are standard for 2003.

The XM satellite radio is great. Bluegrass to modern jazz, comedy to Top 40, hip-hop to country, it’s all there.

Pricing:

Cavalier’s ace in the hole is a modest price tag for this attractive, well-equipped car. This is a benefit of keeping a vehicle for years on the same platform with minimal style changes. The LS Sport Coupe starts at $16,625 with a nice collection of standard features. The test car included a sunroof at $595 and XM radio at $350, though the satellite service requires a subscription fee. Shipping is $565, for a total of $18,110. Not bad.

Bottom line:

There are small cars that are sharper and more sophisticated, but Cavalier offers a good deal of sporty style and performance at a bargain-basement price.

Chevrolet Cavalier LS Sport Coupe

Vehicle type: five-passenger, two-door coupe, front-wheel drive.

Base price: $16,625.

Price as tested: $18,110.

Engine: 2.2-liter inline four, 140 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, 150 pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed manual.

Wheelbase: 104.1 inches.

Curb weight: 2,617 pounds.

EPA mileage: 26 city, 33 highway.

Highs:

Moderate price.

Engine power.

Decent handling.

Lows:

Engine roar.

Cramped interior.

Needs update.

2003 Chevrolet Cavalier review: Our expert's take
By

Chevrolet Cavalier soldiers on another year, outdated and outgunned by the imports but still offering solid and sporty transportation at a bargain price.

Cavalier remains the best selling automobile for all of General Motors. Cavalier was revamped in 1995 with a new body and interior, plus mechanical upgrades that turned it from a chunky economy car into a tight and sharp-looking little cruiser.

For 2003, the basic shape remains, though freshened with new front and rear styling, and can be ordered with monochromatic body parts, a new spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels that make the little Chevy look something akin to a tuned import.

There’s also a new standard engine, a twin-cam four that delivers 140 horsepower.

But let’s not forget the major upgrade best appreciated by the young target audience: optional XM radio that offers 100-channel, fade-free audio. For those who believe a great audio system is the key component to a great ride, Cavalier has taken on a new sheen.

What it is:

Cavalier is Chevrolet’s cheapest car, a little runabout with a stylish body that’s an enduring favorite among young drivers, especially females.

Cavaliers rest on a platform that’s more than two decades old, and small-car engineering has moved a long way since then. Steering and handling are responsive but lack the sophistication of the import brands. GM promises that Cavalier will be upgraded to the platform of the new Saturn Ion in the near future.

Engine and transmission:

The standard “Ecotek” engine is a four-cylinder, aluminum 2.2-liter mill that also is found in the Ion. With 140 horsepower, Ecotek has plenty of pull for this 2,600-pound car. This is a major improvement over the standard 115-horse engine that formerly struggled to motivate Cavalier.

The downside to Ecotek is a noisy harshness that compares unfavorably with smooth four-bangers such as those found in Honda Civic and Mazda Protege. This is a problem with GM fours. They put out decent power but feel downright agricultural. GM has expended serious time and money to quiet this engine, including the installation of twin balance shafts. It could still be better.

The five-speed stick shift felt notchy, though the gears were well-spaced for performance.

Handling, drivability:

Though Cavalier sits on an ancient chassis, the steering and cornering are crisp and responsive. The steering would benefit from less power boost and more road feel. It helped that the LS Sport Coupe as tested comes standard with a firmer sport suspension and low-profile performance tires, with rack-and-pinion steering standard across the board. The old platform becomes noticeable over rough surfaces, when Cavalier is felt flexing, vibrating and skittering to the side. Otherwise, the ride is secure and comfortable.

Front-disc, rear-drum brakes are unexceptional, with fairly good stopping power . Anti-lock is standard in the upgraded LS, optional on the base models.

Styling:

The two-door sport coupe, in bright yellow, looked appropriately sporty with monochromatic trim, rear spoiler, integrated fog lamps and lower body ground effects. The Cavalier still tends toward the cute side of the equation, and the overall style seems more appropriate to a young female than a snarling boy racer. The 16-inch aluminum wheels look very sharp.

The body design is 8 years old, and although updated for 2003 and reasonably attractive, it doesn’t really stand out as anything special. Hopefully the next transformation will bring Cavalier’s looks up to date.

Interior:

The front seats have been upgraded, becoming more supportive than those in past Cavaliers, but the interior is cramped for anyone taller or bigger than average. For this tall driver, finding a comfortable driving position was impossible, settling for a tilted-up steering wheel and re ard-raked seat.

The rear seat supposedly has room for three abreast, but only young children or really small adults will find happiness back there. Otherwise, treat it strictly as room for two.

Side-impact air bags are standard for 2003.

The XM satellite radio is great. Bluegrass to modern jazz, comedy to Top 40, hip-hop to country, it’s all there.

Pricing:

Cavalier’s ace in the hole is a modest price tag for this attractive, well-equipped car. This is a benefit of keeping a vehicle for years on the same platform with minimal style changes. The LS Sport Coupe starts at $16,625 with a nice collection of standard features. The test car included a sunroof at $595 and XM radio at $350, though the satellite service requires a subscription fee. Shipping is $565, for a total of $18,110. Not bad.

Bottom line:

There are small cars that are sharper and more sophisticated, but Cavalier offers a good deal of sporty style and performance at a bargain-basement price.

Chevrolet Cavalier LS Sport Coupe

Vehicle type: five-passenger, two-door coupe, front-wheel drive.

Base price: $16,625.

Price as tested: $18,110.

Engine: 2.2-liter inline four, 140 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, 150 pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed manual.

Wheelbase: 104.1 inches.

Curb weight: 2,617 pounds.

EPA mileage: 26 city, 33 highway.

Highs:

Moderate price.

Engine power.

Decent handling.

Lows:

Engine roar.

Cramped interior.

Needs update.

Safety review

Based on the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
4/5
Frontal passenger
4/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
1/5
Side rear passenger
2/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

Consumer reviews

4.3 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.0
Interior 3.7
Performance 4.3
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.0
Reliability 4.4

Most recent

  • The 2.2ecotec I love it wish it was in new cars !

    It has been a great commuting car never let me down with regular oil changes and 3 sets of tires 210,000miles and still going strong !
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    9 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 180,000 miles and not a leak or problem

    Bought in 2008, had 50,000 on it. Now have 180,000...all its ever had is oil changes, a few batteries, tires and front brakes...that's it ! It still has the original belts and hoses.. 14 years and still going strong... now the bad.. subframe is rotting out (Chicago rust belt car) seat cover wore out.. and AC quit in 2018.... but hey I only paid $7k for it in 2008.. gonna be hard to say goodbye. We've been through snowstorms, ice storms, hail, floods and a deer encounter.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    9 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Unsafe steering issues, gauge's don't work

    This car is Unsafe and GM needs to prevent people from getting hurt or worse not one of my guages are working and it's a very common problem and same yr trucks are recall but not cavalier and my car was trying to start without me or key in car just cranking away it's hard to steer and I don't know if I will make it to work ok or home alive it's a nightmare everyday and I don't have a way to fix it or any other options but to drive it till I die or it burns down because of all the issues- five stars and GM is worst car maker and customer support and protector in auto industry shame on them greedy xxxxxxx's
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    2 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • It’s a good car for the price.

    It’s a very good starter car. Runs nice. Have had very few issues in the 6 years that I have owned it. Not a head turner but still a decent car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I’ve had this car for 14 years.

    This car is insane. It just keeps riding. Though it struggles now past 60mph. And the AC doesn’t work so well anymore. It’s all good though I live in the city and I usually don’t drive on highways much. It’s my around town car. I’ve been in several accidents with it over the years. Nothing TOO major. A few replacements here and there. Parts are so cheap for this car. Great for ALL weather. I used to live in Maryland. Now I’m in ATL. I can’t tell you how many snow storms I’ve driven this car in, everyone else is stuck and we just glide by. I’ve driven this car up and down the east coast countless times. Great car I would recommend, obviously it’s not the most high tech or aesthetically pleasing car. But it will get you around for a VERY long time. That is if you get lucky. Enjoy this little go cart, that’s what it feels like to drive it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Doesn't give. Real sharp and reliable tool.

    This car did the job. With proper maintenance, it will fit like a glove. Great for distance up to 500 miles and commuting on the daily. This generation of Chevys all had the messed up paint, but it's no biggie for the money.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • This is a good cheap car for a first time driver.

    It is reliable and fun to drift on ice, and gravel. It is very good for going back and forgot work, I also can easily go into the ditch.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Lifteime of car can go up to 500,000 miles

    Plenty of legrooom, and easy maintenance. Just keeps on going and going without any breakdown. Frankly looks like a Japanese made car to run until 500,0000 miles
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • this car has been through everything, amazing car

    has usb/aux hook up sub and the best running motor ever snow sand mud its done it all no accidents very well maintained. drove great a little rusty one small dent on the passenger side.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great first car for teenager

    I bought it used with over 100k miles. Runs well and everything works. I am taller (6?3?) and I struggle getting in and out a little. Other than that it seems to be a good reliable car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • rust rust rust this car needs a recall

    Rust awful G M should be ashamed have replaced front fenders headlites hood now rocker panels need replacement and quarter panels car has low milage...all replacements due to low quality parts
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very good reliable car

    This car is a very good depenable car. Perfect for Simone?s first car. Has been very reliable and will get u where u need to go
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier?

The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is available in 3 trim levels:

  • (2 styles)
  • LS (2 styles)
  • LS Sport (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier?

The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier offers up to 24 MPG in city driving and 33 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier reliable?

The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has an average reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier owners.

Is the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 91.1% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.3 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.0
  • Interior: 3.7
  • Performance: 4.3
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.0
  • Reliability: 4.4
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