My Cavalier

It seems most fitting to introduce affordable excitement into the two-door entry-level segment in the land of the $2.99 buffet. The value-priced, practical, reliable Cavalier has always been the meat and potatoes of the auto industry. Who says it can’t be exciting too? Young automotive enthusiasts buying their first practical car shouldn’t have to be saddled with a humdrum daily driver.

For those who had to pass on the Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 Coupe simply because they needed another pair of doors, Chevy introduces the Cavalier Z24 Sedan concept vehicle. Currently gauging customer and dealer response to the vehicle, Chevy may actually produce it.

This Cavalier has all the performance and appearance tweaks of the Z24 Coupe, and more. The Indigo Blue Z24 Sedan at SEMA shows a new look: new front and rear fascia extensions, the coupe’s rocker moldings (modified to fit), fog lamps, rear spoiler, body-color door handles and exterior mirrors, and badging. There’s also a new Webasto sunroof. On the mechanical side, the Z24 is powered by GM’s proven L4 2-4-liter twin cam four-cylinder engine, producing a robust 150 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 155 lb.-ft of torque at 4400 rpm.

A new cat-back stainless steel exhaust system is added. The Z24 Sedan rides 1.5 inches lower than the standard Cavalier Sedan and the sway bars from the Z24 Coupe are installed to stiffen the ride.

The Z24 Coupe also gets new 17-inch wheels and tires, and racing-style four wheel disc brakes from Baer Racing to match.

Inside, the all-important sound system is improved with amplified six-speaker audio system designed for young buyers listening tastes. The instrument panel trim and the shifter knob are covered with a sporty material that looks remarkably like carbon fiber—but isn’t really, because we’re talking affordable, right? New "Chevy Heritage" seat materials top off the package.

Performance, two doors and a friendly price tag. The Cavalier Z24 Coupe has something for everybody.