2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 Review
July 29, 2008
The 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 will utilize the same Daewoo-derived platform of the 2004-2008 hatchback. Overall length will grow by 2.2 inches, while width and height will be up only slightly. On the inside, the Aveo5 will have seating for up to five and 42.9 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats folded. Chevrolet says the Aveo5 will have engine and sound-proofing enhancements to make it quieter than the last model.
The Aveo5 will come with an updated version of the 1.6-liter dual-overhead cam four-cylinder engine that powers current Aveos. With new variable valve timing, the engine will make 107 horsepower, up four horses from 2008, and 106 pound feet of torque.
A five-speed manual transmission will be standard and a four-speed automatic will be optional. The automatic will have a Hold Control Mode that helps reduce wheel spin and traction loss on slick roads by allowing the driver to select and hold a higher gear.
Chevrolet says fuel economy will also be up 8 percent. With the manual, the Aveo5 will get 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. With the automatic, it will get 24/34.
Three trim levels will be offered, base, LS and LT. Air conditioning will come standard on the LS, while the LT will get cruise control; heated power mirrors; power windows and locks; remote keyless entry; XM satellite radio; fog lights; and alloy wheels. Front side impact airbags will be standard, and LS and LT models will be available with antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution.
Pricing hasn’t been announced, but Chevrolet claims the Aveo5 will be the lowest priced car in America when it is released. That means pricing will start at or near $10,000.
Few automotive writers have driven the 2009 Aveo5, but its safe to say that most will be happy to see the older model go. The previous generation Aveo5 was rated by Consumer Reports as one of the 11 worst new cars consumers could buy. Only time will tell if the new model can win critics over.
Chevrolet is touting its redesigned Aveo5 hatchback as a compact car with capabilities that belie its small size. With up to 42 cubic feet of cargo space and an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, Chevrolet is hoping to lure consumers looking to replace their larger rides to the Aveo5. For 2009, the Aveo5 has an updated 1.6 liter engine with 107 horsepower and 106 pound feet of torque, standard side air bags and front airbags with a passenger sensing systems and upscale features like standard OnStar and available XM Satellite radio.
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