Vehicle: 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 LT
Price as tested: CDN$15770

Performance: With Aveo’s 1.6 liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, you won’t expect breathtaking performance. But with the latest generation, Aveo has scored with variable valve timing for better fuel economy and responsiveness. This little mill is good for a 106 horses and 107 lb/ft of torque, which is a slight improvement over its predecessor’s 105 and 103, respectively. The refinement of this GMDAT build engine has been better than expected, although it remains noisy at higher rev. 107 lb/ft of torque is decent judging by its maximum torque arrives at 3600rpm. Throttle response is acceptable. However, we found Aveo’s biggest shortcomings: manual gearbox, remain intact. The 5-speed’s throw is long and clutch isn’t so progressive. Gates aren’t exactly well-defined. There is a sense of rubbery feel through the manual gearbox. Its a surprise for a little car to have better automatic gearbox than manual gearbox, Aveo is the case. Aveo’s 4-speed automatic has always been a surprise in previous iteration. With the improved fuzzy logic program, it actually learns driver’s right foot quickly and efficiently through driver input. The 1st gear is low enough to enthuisastic launch in this little mill, 4th gear is tall enough for cruising although 5th is a welcome gear. 2nd and 3rd’s fuzzy logic programs have set delightfully well for mid-range. If you are looking to buy an Aveo, take the automatic gearbox.

Handling: The Aveo has confident if not entertaining dynamic qualities. The steering feel light but vague, while the turn-in is acceptable. Its suspension is comfortably compliant that put more emphasis on ride comfort than driving enjoyment. It feels a tad too soft through corners, with lots of understeer and body rolls. However, its ride is surprisingly comfortable and compliant. Just wish for more rebound damping when driven through patholes and rough pavements.

Brakes: Aveo is standard with front discs, rear drums but ABS as an available option. The braking feel and modulation are acceptable if not spectacular. Even if its an entry-level car, GM should make ABS standard across the board instead of making it an option. GM shouldn’t cut corner when it comes to active safety feature in small car. You can afford a small car doesn’t mean you can’t afford to be in a safe car.

Interior: The materials and fit-and-finish have been much improved in the latest Aveo. You still can find plenty of hard and cheap plastic materials abound, however, the level of execution have taken a huge step forward over its predecessor.

When it comes to ergonomics, the stereo is smart enough to placed above the climate control unit. Instrumentation gauges are clear and analog, while all the power items standard on our uplevel LT tester.

Conclusion: The 2009 Aveo marks a quantum leap forward over its predecessor, especially when it comes to engine and interior ambience. Here lies the rough. If you add the optional feature like ABS, Aveo’s price can escalate into the Fit and Yaris level. Which, on the other hand, are much better driving cars with more solid quality reputation.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5
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Performance: 2/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 2/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 3/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 3/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 3/5
Value-for-money: 2/5

Overall rating: 2.25/5