New Chevrolet Aveo: First Details

• Hatchback and notchback models to bear same name in future
• Striking exterior and high-class interior
• Two petrol engines with 84 and 98 hp; manual or automatic transmission

Chevrolet Europe’s success story began with the Kalos in 2002. In 2006, the compact-class model range was extended with the introduction of the Aveo hatchback wagon. Since 2002, GM’s value brand has sold more than 381,000 vehicles in this compact series to customers throughout Europe. These key models have, in turn, made a significant contribution to Chevrolet’s success in the first half of 2007, when the brand chalked up a total of 215,315 unit sales across Europe, achieving a market share of some 1.8 per cent – its best performance to date.

The most significant features of this completely reworked model are its striking exterior, its high-class interior and a new, even more efficient petrol engine. Like its notchback stable mate, the new hatchback model will now bear the Aveo name throughout Europe. The five-door hatchback model will be first to hit European showrooms (in March 2008), followed by the three-door model a few weeks later. Like all Chevrolets, the new Aveo will stand out for its excellent value for money.

The Aveo hatchback sports Chevrolet’s new design features, as characterised by the big horizontally split radiator grille with a body-coloured crossbeam and the brand logo sitting prominently in the center. The dynamic detailing includes large, curved clear-glass headlamps and fog lamps that project like spotlights from the lower part of the bumper. The bonnet follows the lines of the radiator grille. Eye-catching contours, which flow from the bonnet to the A-pillar, highlight the sporty look.

Additional indicators in the side sections in front of the exterior mirrors enhance safety. In profile, the body’s prominent shoulder lines catch the eye, as does their dynamic beading that sweeps from the front to the rear door. The back of the car is dominated by the solid bumper and the round tail lamps in a clear-glass housing.

The modern and high-quality instrument panel is divided into four chrome-trimmed controls and a centre console with striking air vents, a fully integrated audio unit, and large, user-friendly air-conditioning dials. The smooth plastic surfaces and the soft-touch finish of both the instrument panel and the upper half of the door panel are pleasant to the touch.

The new Aveo has grown slightly and is four centimetres longer than its predecessor. Its vital statistics are:

The Aveo offers a choice of two petrol engines: a new 1.2-litre unit with two overhead camshafts and an output of 84 hp, and the existing 1.4-litre engine, which now develops 98 hp and is available with automatic transmission.

Both engines are even more frugal than their predecessors when it comes to fuel consumption. Despite the fact that its performance has improved by 12 hp, for example, the basic engine will now consume roughly 6 per cent less fuel in the MVEG fuel efficiency comparison.