Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire Siblings Finally Getting the Boot
GM of Canada has just announced replacements for the aging Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire models. The Cobalt and Pursuit, respectively, will be launched in 2005.
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| The word cobalt is associated with power, strength and dependability, all the attributes Chevy hopes consumers will associate with its new compact car. (Photo: General Motors) |
"We think the new names are a perfect fit for these two exciting cars," said Donna Martin, marketing manager for small and sporty cars at GM of Canada. "Cobalt is associated with power, strength and dependability, while Pursuit associates with performance, adventure and excitement. These new cars will add to the already impressive lineup of GM small cars including the Aveo, Optra, Malibu, Malibu Maxx and Epica."
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| The Cobalt should be a remedy to many of the criticisms plaguing the current Cavalier. (Photo: General Motors) |
The new models will share architecture derived from the Delta platform. Expected to follow the General's new trend toward uncluttered, contemporary design, Cobalt and Pursuit will also improve interior quality, spaciousness and comfort levels.
While the current Cavalier and Sunfire are not known for dynamic chassis performance, the upcoming small cars will remedy past sins. The Ecotec 4-cylinder engine found in the current Chevy and Pontiac compacts needs no performance boost at all, offering spirited acceleration. The 140-hp engine is expected to be part of the Cobalt/Pursuit package.