RATING: Average. The 2005 Cavalier and Sunfire were sold alongside the Cobalt and Pursuit last year, but only the Cobalt and Pursuit remain as 2006s. Strong points: Very reasonably priced; good acceleration; plenty of front passenger and cargo room; comfortable riding; well appointed for an entry-level vehicle; and split rear seatbacks that add to storage capacity. Weak points: Steering and handling are only average; limited rear passenger room; cheap interior; mediocre fit and finish; small trunk opening; and problematic rear entry and exit.
GM’s toronto airport limo summer discount frenzy cleaned most of them out. Expect to see $3,000 rebates and other incentives on 20o6 models in the late fall. Delivery/PDI: $995 Depreciation: Slower than average. Insurance cost: Average. Parts supply/cost: Parts are easy to find and reasonably priced, with heavy discounting by independent suppliers. Annual maintenance cost: Average. Warranty: Bumper-to-bumper 3 years/6o,000 km; powertrain 5 years/ioo,000 km; rust perforation 6 years/16o,000 km. Supplementary warranty: Yes, but only for the powertrain if you’ll be keeping the car for more than five years. Highway/city fuel economy: 6.7-1oL/loo km with the base engine and a 4-speed automatic.
