The Cavalier has
not been in commission for 14 years now and had once enjoyed its existence as a
solid and economical choice for many young professionals, students, and others
as a practical daily driver that added many great features as the years went
on. It currently has a presence in China and Mexico in the form of a subcompact
sedan that exists right under the Cruze in the lineup.
As all of us on
staff here at Jim Butler Chevy of
St Louis were checking out the web for updates on the blogs and newswires
about the coming year's models and saw an important feature from the good
people at The Drive. It depicted a product leak, suggesting the
Cavalier will see a rebirth during 2020 as a new crossover SUV. For a very
brief time last Monday, Chevy's U.S. Media site had an image in the galleries
section of a small crossover that was previously unseen labeled “2020 Chevy
Cavalier.” At first glance, the design type and styling elements appeared very
similar to what is found on the Trax and Equinox, and the link directed the
user to a blank page with an “MX” URL.
This means that
the new crossover may see its official introduction in Mexico, but just a day
or so later, the photo was then removed. The size appears similar to the
compact Chevy Trax: the Chinese version of sedan derives power from a 1.5-liter
I-4 engine and comes with the choice of a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
If the transformation from sedan to crossover platform takes place, it would
make sense to see some powertrain updates in the loop as well.
“Raiders of the
Lost Ark” was dominating the box office when the Cavalier first went on sale in
May 1981, as a front-wheel-drive model with 2 and 4 door sedan, station wagon,
and hatchback body styles. Two years later, the adjusted model offered a V6
engine for more muscle, and throttle body fuel injection. 1989 models saw the
steering column completely redesigned, which allowed for a reduction in
injuries during a crash with the ability to bend to conform to the driver's
chest shape.
When remembering
Cavaliers on the road spotted most often, it was the 1991 model that saw the
extensive restyling that provided new headlights, taillights, bumpers, hood,
wheel covers, and completely redesigned interior. The Z24 model then gained the
options for a CD player and height-adjustable driver's seat, and mid-year the
convertible was brought back with the V6 engine as standard. From 1995-1999,
the Cavalier took a few design cues from the 4th-generation Chevy Camaro, and
made its way through the ranks to see the #1 sales spot within the entire Chevy
lineup! We will keep you posted right here on the Jim Butler blog as to any
updates and news regarding the Cavalier's comeback.