We drove the new Chevrolet Aveo sedan not too long ago (see CarBuyer, issue 49) and came away impressed. But that test was done at the car's international launch in Slovenia, in driving conditions somewhat different from those in Singapore.

The car has since made its debut here and it's good to see that Chevy hasn't resorted to cutting costs by bringing in a bare-bones basic model and then fitting cheap aftermarket gadgets to drive up its perceived value.

Important features like anti-lock brakes, a driver's airbag, remote-control central locking and a MP3-compatible integrated audio system are sensibly included as standard on local Aveos, with non-essentials such as alloy wheels, leather upholstery and reverse sensors being on the options list.

The previous model's cabin was constructed from the kind of plastics normally used to make pails or laundry baskets, but the new car boasts a completely revamped interior that's light years ahead in both looks and quality. It's predominantly black inside, which means the atmosphere is more serious than cheerful, but at least you won't be frowning after a long journey.

Chevy's done a good job arranging all the controls and switches so they fall easily to hand, although it must be said that there aren't that many of them to begin with. The big rotary knobs controlling the air-con fan speed and audio system volume are particularly tactile, adding to the feel-good factor inside.

There are also a couple of features you might not expect to find on a car in this class, such as an electric boot release and slide-out cup holders. On the downside, none of the electric windows has a one-touch feature and the instrument cluster still lacks a gear position indicator.

These quibbles are easily forgiven once you start driving, for the Aveo has a level of refinement that would be more familiar to owners of cars a size bigger. Ride comfort is excellent - large bumps are sponged away effortlessly by the supple suspension, and there's little road noise intrusion into the cabin.

For a car that makes no pretensions to sporty behaviour, the Aveo actually handles pretty well. The steering has a surprising amount of feel, and well-judged damping keeps body pitch and roll at bay when cornering hard. Keeping your exuberance in check, however, are the standard tyres that tend to run out of grip early.

The 94bhp engine can't exactly be described as rev-happy, but it remains fairly quiet even during full-bore acceleration and there's sufficient mid-range torque so you won't struggle to keep pace with fast-moving traffic. The four-speed automatic gearbox is similarly smooth when left to its own devices.

As a few-frills, budget-priced sedan, the latest Aveo hits the spot in most ways. It now has more contemporary styling (although the new rear end is a bit fussy) and most importantly, an interior that doesn't constantly serve to remind you that you're not swimming in money.

NEED TO KNOW

Model Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 (A)
Engine Type 1,399cc, 16V in-line 4
Max Power 94bhp at 6,200rpm
Max Torque 130Nm at 3,400rpm
Gearbox 4-speed automatic
Top speed 170km/h
0-100km/h 11.9 seconds
Price $48,988 with COE
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
Contact Starsauto at 6581-1111
Alpine Motors at 6316-5335

J Neater exterior styling, high quality cabin, excellent ride comfort
K No in-dash gear position indicator, tyres lack grip

Verdict

Sensible update keeps the Aveo looking and feeling fresh next to newer rivals

SIMILAR CARS WE HAVE DRIVEN

Hyundai Verna 1.4 (A) $49,500 with COE
Not everyone likes the Verna's styling, but there's no denying that it's a solidly-engineered, sophisticated sedan. Smooth engine and big car-like ride comfort are big plusses.

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (A) $49,988 with COE
It's not hard to see why the Vios is such a strong seller. It looks modern inside and out, while the VVT-i engine delivers lively performance and excellent fuel economy.