The fourth-generation Cavalier departed completely from its North American roots, re-emerging as a modern compact saloon developed by SAIC-GM for China and key export markets like Mexico. Sharing styling cues with the Chevrolet Cruze, it focuses on fuel economy, generous passenger room, and low servicing costs, matching the footprint of a Toyota Corolla. Rigorous Chevrolet Cavalier maintenance preserves its contemporary powertrain and on-board tech.
Early cars featured a frugal 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic, while later Mexican-market models gained a lively 1.3-litre turbocharged engine matched to a modern 6-speed automatic gearbox. The turbo engine requires strict adherence to high-grade synthetic oil to protect its turbocharger and direct injectors, while suspension bushes require checks on cars driven as fleet vehicles.