What is the mpg on a 2000 Chevy Cavalier Z24?
The 2000 Cavalier Z24 typically gets about 23–25 mpg in city driving and around 30–34 mpg on the highway, depending on transmission and condition.
The question concerns fuel economy for the sport-oriented Z24 trim of GM's J-body Cavalier. It used a 2.4-liter LD9 four-cylinder and was offered with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, with MPG varying between configurations and driving styles. The following outlines official estimates, real-world results, and factors that affect fuel economy.
Engine and drivetrain
The Z24 was powered by the 2.4-liter LD9 engine, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The choice of transmission impacts highway efficiency and, to a lesser degree, city mpg due to gearing and weight considerations.
2.4-liter LD9 engine
The LD9 is a commonly used 2.4-liter four-cylinder that balanced performance with efficiency for a compact sport sedan in 2000, delivering roughly 150 horsepower in tuned form for the Z24 lineup.
Transmission options
Manual transmissions generally offer stronger highway efficiency due to gearing, while automatics can vary in MPG depending on shift patterns and cruising speed. Both options were available for the Z24 in 2000.
EPA fuel economy estimates
EPA ratings provide baseline figures for the 2000 Cavalier Z24, and they differ by transmission.
- 2.4L LD9 with manual 5-speed: about 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
- 2.4L LD9 with 4-speed automatic: about 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
These figures reflect standardized testing and may differ from real-world experience, particularly with aggressive driving, loads, or climate control use.
Real-world MPG
Real-world fuel economy depends on driving conditions, maintenance, and how the car is used.
- City driving: commonly around 18–25 mpg, depending on traffic and climate control use.
- Highway driving: typically 28–34 mpg with steady speeds and light loads.
- Combined driving: often in the low to mid-20s, depending on the mix of city and highway trips.
Actual results can be higher or lower based on factors like tire condition, aerodynamics with roof racks, vehicle weight, and engine wear or tune.
Summary
The 2000 Chevy Cavalier Z24’s fuel economy centers on a 2.4-liter LD9 engine paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. EPA estimates normally place city fuel economy in the low 20s and highway economy in the low to mid-30s, with the manual often delivering slightly better highway efficiency. Real-world results vary, typically landing in the 20s combined, influenced by driving style, maintenance, and vehicle condition.
How many miles per gallon does a 2000 Chevy Cavalier get?
The 2000 Chevy Cavalier's MPG varies by trim, with the standard models getting 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined, while the sportier Z24 trim gets slightly lower city and higher highway mileage: 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined. The LS trim has an MPG of around 20 city / 26 highway / 22 combined.
Standard and LS trims
- City: 20 MPG
- Highway: 26 MPG
- Combined: 22 MPG
Z24 trim
- City: 19 MPG
- Highway: 28 MPG
- Combined: 22 MPG
What kind of engine did the Z24 have?
The Z24 and LS convertible used the 2.3 L LD2 Quad 4 engine in 1995, but they received a new engine in 1996, the 2.4 liter DOHC LD9. This engine could also be special ordered on a 4-door LS model. This engine produced 150 hp (112 kW) and 155 lb⋅ft (210 N⋅m) of torque and was used until 2002.
How fast is the Z24 Cavalier 1 4 mile?
The 0-to-60 sprint takes 8.1 seconds, and the quarter-mile takes 16.4 seconds at 85 mph.
What engine was in a 2000 Chevy Cavalier Z24?
Optional on the LS sedan and standard on the Z24 coupe and convertible is a 150-horsepower 2.4-liter twin-cam four-cylinder.
