Top 5 used hatchbacks under $10000 (2004-2007 Aveo review)

Feb 24, 2010 - Mark Toljagic - Toronto Star

http://media.wheels.topscms.com/imag...677e82529.jpeg

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"It turns on a dime and gives back change."

This post by a Chevrolet Aveo owner hints at the appeal of this seldom-celebrated hatchback. Cheap to own and to operate, it has a smaller footprint than many cars – thanks to the absence of a trunk – and it can be fun to drive and to park expertly.

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Here's some of what is said about the 2004-07 CHEVROLET AVEO/PONTIAC WAVE/SUZUKI SWIFT+ ...

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the seats were raised off the floor with lots of headroom to boot. The rear seat was broad and flat, permitting three adults to sit there in a pinch.

A 1.6 L DOHC four-cylinder was the sole power plant. The iron-block engine, with 103 hp and 107 lb.-ft. of torque, was refined enough, but couldn't quite deliver the power or the fuel economy of its Japanese competitors. Owners noticed the car was susceptible to crosswinds.

The Aveo came with a rubbery five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. To ease consumers' fear of subcompacts, GM ensured the Aveo came chock-a-block with safety equipment and other standard kit.

The Aveo and gang have worked well as urban runabouts, with only a few problem areas to watch for. Be prepared for worn timing belts (they are reputed to snap early), alignment problems and a bad ignition interlock that can leave the key jammed.

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I didn't know this. The Aveo was "styled in Europe by Italdesign-Giugiaro".

The other four cars in this "top 5" list...

• 2007 HYUNDAI ACCENT[/*:m:z1fw5o9j]
• 2007 NISSAN VERSA[/*:m:z1fw5o9j]
• 2005-07 FORD FOCUS[/*:m:z1fw5o9j]
• 2006-07 TOYOTA YARIS[/*:m:z1fw5o9j]

Complete article: Toronto Star

here's the wikipedia article http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daewoo_Kalos, and here's a link to the 2001 frankfurt auto show http://archive.cardesignnews.com/aut...los/index.html when it was first showcased.

I'd seen the Wiki article before, but not that original "concept" car for the '04 model. That's great! Thanks.