2003 CAVALIER DEBUTS A FRESH NEW LOOK, NEW SAFETY FEATURES
For 2003, Cavalier debuts a sporty new exterior, new safety features and extends the Ecotec 2.2L L4 to all models. New options include OnStar and XM Satellite Radio. As always, Cavalier's traditional dependability and reliability remains unchanged.
A freshened exterior The 2003 Cavalier lineup features a new exterior with freshened ground effects, front fascia with fog lamps, rear fascia, headlamps, taillamps and hood. The LS Sport model has new rocker moldings and integrated fog lamps. Cavalier also offers chrome aluminum wheels, specific body-color door handles, body-color exterior mirror housings for power mirrors, leather-wrapped transmission shift knob, steering wheel and high profile rear spoiler. The front end displays Chevy's new gold bowtie emblem. The result is a more modern style that complements the rest of the Chevy car lineup and lends the Cavalier a sportier, more custom look.
New safety features Cavalier adds numerous safety features for 2003, including a center rear three-point seat belt, and optional front driver and passenger seat-mounted torso air bags with thorax protection (side impact air bags). In addition, OnStar is a new option for the LS and LS Sport models. OnStar is the nation's leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services using the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network and wireless technology.
OnStar services include automatic notification of air bag deployment, stolen vehicle location, remote door unlock, emergency services dispatch, roadside assistance, remote diagnostics, route support, convenience services and OnStar Concierge. OnStar Personal Calling allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls through a nationwide network in cooperation with Verizon Wireless. Virtual Advisor gives subscribers access to personalized information in a hands-free, voice-activated manner with no screens or displays.
Also in 2003, Cavalier adds GM's LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), which can be combined with a top shelf tether to enable adults to securely install LATCH-compatible child seats without using a seatbelt. Rear child seat anchors are located in the floorpan with an attachment at the juncture of seat cushion and seat back, taking the worry and guesswork out of child safety seat installation.
Ecotec 2.2L engine now standard The Ecotec 2.2L L4 aluminum engine, which debuted on Cavalier last year, is now standard across all models with base five-speed manual and optional Hydra-Matic 4T40-E four-speed automatic transmissions. It features dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder for excellent response in city driving and confident passing and merging on the highway.
Quiet operation is one of the engine's chief features. Twin balance shafts located in the cylinder block cancel the shaking forces inherent in an inline four-cylinder engine, resulting in an engine that is smooth from idle to maximum engine speed. The Ecotec L4 generates 140 hp @ 5600 rpm. Other features that help make the twin cam smooth and quiet include a die-cast lower crankcase and a structural cast-aluminum oil pan, which stiffen the block and reduce radiated engine noise. The engine also features an isolated cam cover that reduces the transmission of valvetrain noise.
XM Satellite Radio The 2003 Cavalier also offers XM Satellite Radio as an option on all models. XM radio features 100 coast-to-coast digital channels, including 71 music channels (more than 30 of them commercial-free) from hip-hop to opera, classical to country, bluegrass to blues and 29 channels of sports, talk, children's and entertainment programming. XM also brings to the car, for the first time on radio, a diverse selection of 24-hour news sources previously available only in the home. XM's next-generation sound quality technology provides superior sound remarkably close to compact disc.
Three new exterior colors Cavalier for 2003 also features three new colors: Olympic White, Arrival Blue and Victory Red. The sporty yellow color is now available on all coupe models.
The FE2 sport suspension system offers excellent handling and road feel for both LS models. The sport suspension provides flatter, more precise cornering, more driver feedback, and better communication between car and driver. Front and rear sway bars stiffen the ride. The suspension system is mated to performance tires for better control and a five-speed manual transmission is standard. The stainless steel exhaust system, with a polished chrome exhaust outlet, offers high corrosion resistance - and good looks.
Cavalier offers plenty of traditional Chevy value and dependability in a contemporary new look for 2003.
Source - GM Corporation
