2012 Chevrolet Aveo U.K. review: well-rounded supermini

Auto Express - Auto Express - New & Used Car Reviews and News - says ...

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A well-rounded and spacious supermini with sporty looks and very competitive prices, the Aveo is a decent alternative choice to more mainstream rivals

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(Interesting UK persective: that Chevy isn't considered "mainstream". It's as mainstream as you get on this side of the pond. :))

• roomier & more comfortable than rivals (Ford Ka, Suzuki Swift), but costs less

• typical praise for the "character" of the design (compared its looks to the VW Scriocco - first time I've read that!)

• not the best in-class dynamics "lack of feedback from the steering and poor body control"
  
  (I wonder if it's the same suspension setup that Chevy boasted was tweaked by Corvette engineers for the Sonic - different suspension tuning, or different driving culture? North American cars are normally mushier than Euro versions.)

• 1.2 (83 bhp) and 1.4-litre (99 bhp - non-turbo) gas engines with 5-speed need to be wound out to keep up with traffic. 1.3 L diesel hasn't been introduced yet, but "should address some of these issues"

• Fuel economy is OK: 1.2 rated 51.3 mpg (Imperial gallon) combined; 1.4 rated 46.3. But carbon emissions aren't great: 130g/km & 158g/km. Again, the diesel option will improve both fuel economy & CO2.

• Safety is excellent, scoring 5-stars in Euro NCAP testing (see 2012 Chevy Aveo / Sonic crash test (videos): 5-star rating (Euro NCAP) )

Also interesting that the UK version boasts 6 airbags; but U.S. & Canada version gets 10. Better drivers! :D

Read more: Chevrolet Aveo | Car Review | Auto Express

I'm guessing the old Aveo reminded many people in the UK of driving a 1985 Vauxhall Astra. LOL!
I would guess that the new Aveo would be nearly identical to the Vauxhall Corsa (same platform), but Chevy is doing its job to keep Opel/Vauxhall higher up in the market.