The 2009 Chevrolet Aveo

InScores.com | September 16, 2009

For 2009, The Chevrolet Aveo undergoes several notable revisions, including a new 1.6 litre four-cylinder that replaces the previous 1.6 litre, with an increase of 3 horsepower from 2008, and with 10 per cent improved fuel economy. Stylistically, the Aveo sedan retains its standard on all trim levels. The redesigned hatchback model, Aveo5, on the other hand, sees an updated exterior,  with the upper and lower grille design that has become a global Chevrolet trademark. The hatchback's refreshed interior now sports higher-quality materials, "woodgrain-appearance" or metallic trim, a driver armrest, additional storage and other advantages over the previous Aveo5, which had a very bargain-bin feel to it.

Both the hatchback and the sedan have a 60/40-split-folding rear seat that creates extra space for cargo. Available in LS or LT trim, all Aveos come with a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 107 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic, the latter of which is only available on the LT trim levels. For this year, the manual now includes a shift indicator light to help maximize fuel economy. The new engine helps fuel economy this year, and the automatic-equipped 2009 Chevrolet Aveo gets an EPA rating of 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined. Features on the LS include 14-inch steel wheels, disc and drum brakes, block heater, manual remote mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, floor mats, tilt wheel, manual driver's seat height adjustment, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and CD/MP3 stereo.

The LS hatchback adds fog lights and a rear washer/wiper, and its rear seat flips and folds. The LT adds air conditioning, power locks with keyless entry, OnStar, fog lights, heated power mirrors, metallic or woodgrain interior accents, cruise control, and power windows. Available options include side airbags, anti-lock brakes, power sunroof, 15-inch alloy wheels and spoiler; the LT models can be optioned with a "Team Canada Edition", which adds 15-inch alloy wheels, spoiler, XM satellite radio, premium speaker system, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, iPod cable, chrome door handles and badges. Providing respectable vehicle dynamics along with the high fuel economy for the given price point, the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo offers direct steering along with a well-tuned suspension for practical day-to-day commuting. In conditions of durability, the Aveo is the can't miss in the small-car category.