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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.
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Contact:
Chevrolet Communications
Carolyn Normandin
Phone: 313-667-4079
Fax: 313-667-4007
Email: carolyn.normandin@gm.com
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