The term 'FORMER CHEVY' can be summarized by the crossword solution of VEGA, which was a subcompact car manufactured by Chevrolet from 1970 to 1977. It was the first American-built subcompact car and was designed to compete with the imports that were becoming increasingly popular in the United States. The Vega was available in a variety of body styles, including a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and a station wagon.