Review
Introduction
Chevrolet’s entry-level car is available as a homely-looking sedan or an altogether more attractive five-door wagon (the Aveo5). Built by GM’s Daewoo subsidiary in Korea, the Aveo is fitted with a 106-hp, 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic, the latter of which is only available on LT models. The Aveo sedan was redesigned in 2007, and the sedan models have continued on relatively unchanged since. The Aveo5 receives an interior and exterior styling update for 2009, differentiating it from the sedan considerably. Both body styles are available in LS, 1LT, and 2LT trim levels.
Verdict
The base Aveo LS model forgoes such basic features as air conditioning and power windows to get in at a starting price of $12,625. An Aveo outfitted with power windows, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, and an automatic transmission will cost more than $16,000, for which one could get a Honda Fit—and the Fit is superior in every way, particularly if one enjoys driving. The Aveo is, however, well made and roomy, although the engine is underpowered and becomes coarse as the revs rise. Fuel economy is average for the class, with estimated EPA figures of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for manual models, but not stellar, considering the Aveo’s size.
Click here to read our full review of the Chevrolet Aveo
What’s New for 2009
The Aveo gets a revised driver-information center that now shows outside temperature and fuel economy. GM’s OnStar system is now standard, along with an auxiliary input jack on all radios. XM satellite radio is now available, as are new five-spoke aluminum 15-inch wheels. The Aveo5 gets new interior and exterior styling.
Highlights and Recommendations
The Aveo and the Aveo5 are available in three trim levels. Each carries the same price tag regardless of body style, making the Aveo5 the more-car-for-the-buck bargain.
The base LS is, well, pretty basic, starting at less than $13,000. Side airbags are included, along with a stereo with an audio input jack, a tilting steering wheel, and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Few options are offered on this model, but it’s a decent choice for budget-conscious buyers who are willing to make several sacrifices. It’s worth noting for such people that the Nissan Versa and the Hyundai Accent have models that carry base prices of about $10,500.
Opting for air conditioning requires a move to the 1LT model, adding a little over a grand to the bill. Anti-lock brakes and power accessories can be added as options, as can the automatic transmission. Choosing an auto-equipped 1LT makes the most sense if you plan to use the Aveo as a no-frills commuter vehicle, providing, as it does, an acceptable level of comfort.
The 2LT, which comes in at about $16,000, is the most uplevel Aveo. It includes power mirrors, door locks, and windows; 15-inch wheels; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; remote keyless entry; and cruise control as standard equipment. An optional leatherette package covers the seats and steering wheel. Alloy wheels and a sunroof can also be spec’d. With a price this high, it makes more sense to shop competitors such as the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa, both of which provide utility and a better driving experience.
Safety
The Aveo gets dual front side airbags in addition to the standard front bags, but curtain airbags aren’t offered—a glaring oversight. Anti-lock brakes are a $440 option on 1LT and 2LT models. There is no traction or stability control on offer.
