Chevrolet Aveo5 a Refreshing Value

Not as many of my co-workers and friends paid as much attention to the Chevrolet Aveo5 as they should have.
They are used to seeing the luxury vehicles I test drive. A value story: The Aveo5 1LT's price was $14,100.
It was refreshing to drive one of the most affordable cars on the market, one that is standard with side-impact air bags and OnStar.
Aveo is also one of the most efficient cars on the road with estimated fuel economy ratings of 27 in the city and 34 on the highway (with the standard manual transmission).
All Aveo and Aveo5 models are powered by a new, more powerful 1.6-liter Ecotec engine that uses variable valve timing and other technologies to deliver great fuel economy and responsive performance.
The Aveo lineup offers a high-value combination of great styling and features not expected in the segment. Crisp, sculpted lines and a wide, confident stance define both the sedan and Aveo5 hatchback's design. This broad-shoulder appearance is highlighted by premium cues, including three-dimensional, richly detailed headlamps that extend into the hood, available front fog lamps and bold tail lamps that are set within jeweled bezels. Styling for the Aveo5 is all new for '09, both inside and out.
All 2009 Aveo and Aveo5 models have the safety of a big car - coming standard with dual frontal and side-impact air bags, as well as front safety belt pretensioners, a tire pressure monitoring system and oil life monitoring system. Available features include XM Radio, leatherette seating trim, steering wheel audio controls, a power-operated sunroof that retracts into the roof for improved aerodynamics and power-adjustable and heated outside mirrors.
The Aveo's history of low ownership costs continue with strong ownership coverage that includes Chevrolet's five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, roadside assistance and courtesy transportation.
Published June 2009