3:48 pm, April 17, 2012
We drove an early production version of the Aveo last year; now James Batchelor takes the UK version for a spin.
WHAT IS IT?
This car’s predecessor was a budget B-segment offering that traded largely on value and very little else. Value is just one part of this all-new Aveo though, as butch looks, sharper handling and good equipment levels make up this Ford Fiesta rival.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
Buyers have a choice of two petrols – a 1.2 and a 1.4-litre – and a diesel unit in two power guises. The latter also comes in an ‘Eco’ form that emits just 95g/km of CO2, but it’s the 1.2-litre petrol that’s the predicted best-seller.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
There are three trims starting with the keenly-priced LS at £9,995. Even this model gets air-con and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrirs, whle the range-topping LTZ model boats 15-inch alloys, fog lamps, parking sensors and auto lights at £13,615.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Dynamically this is no class-leader – that’s the Fiesta’s title – but it’s good enough. Well-weighted steering is spoilt by very little turn in, but the ride is pleasant enough, and there’s little body-roll. Only the 1.4-litre petrol and diesel units have anything in the way of go.
WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK OF IT?
Autocar felt: ‘It won’t be remembered as one of Chevy’s greatest efforts but it’s a competitive car.’
WHAT DO WE THINK OF IT?
The styling scores top marks with us, with just the wheezy engines and a few cheap plastics spoiling what is generally a car that finally gives Hyundai’s i20 a run for its money.
