Review: UK Chevrolet Aveo 1.3 VCDi Eco diesel with start/stop

[MetroMPG]

Here's what North America won't get (yet??) ...


(GM image)



Specs:

• 1.3-litre VDCi diesel
• same engine used in GM's Opel/Vauxhaull Corsa
• either 74 bhp or 94 bhp
• both versions come with an auto start/stop system
• an "Eco" version is cleanest (95 gm/km) & lowest fuel consumption, rated 78.5 mpg (Imperial gallon) combined = 3.6 L / 100 km = 65.4 mpg (US gal)
• "Eco" version is top of the Aveo line, and gets other stuff like LRR tires, cruise control, electric windows and a USB connection

Chevy is positioning the Aveo in the UK as a value leader. Its price undercuts the competition by thousands, e.g. equivalent Ford Fiesta and VW Polo is over £2,500 more expensive.

The Auto Express reviewer liked the little diesel, because the engine's superior torque makes it both more efficient and more entertaining to drive than the petrol/gas versions of the car.

it feels much more responsive than its petrol counterparts, and in-gear acceleration has significantly improved.

("In-gear acceleration"... is there any other kind? Coasting down hills much, are we?)

Handling? Not quite as good as their favourite of the moment (Fiesta), but...

...the Aveo strikes a good balance between handling poise and passenger comfort. The steering is positive and well weighted, and the lack of body roll, combined with generous amounts of front-end grip, means that it’s actually a surprisingly entertaining drive, even on skinny low-rolling resistance tyres.

The two main compliants:

• the engine gets noisy when pushed hard
• the start/stop system isn't the smoothest they've tried, "pausing noticeably for each restart and sending noise and vibration into the cabin via the gearlever"

Full Auto EXPRESS review: Chevrolet Aveo 1.3 VDCi Eco | First Drive | Auto Express