Chevrolet Lacetti is a C-class car developed by the South Korean division of GM Daewoo. The model name comes from the Latin word lacertus, which translates to "energetic, strong, young." The car was offered in three body styles: a four-door sedan, a five-door hatchback, and a five-door station wagon.
This model became the second on the new J200 platform (the first was the third Nubira), replacing the Daewoo Nubira II. The design of the sedan and station wagon was done by the Italian studio Pininfarina, while the hatchback's exterior was created by the Giorgetto Giugiaro studio. The car premiered in the summer of 2003, and sales started in 2004. In Europe, the car was initially sold under the Daewoo brand, and from 2004 under the Chevrolet brand. In some markets, the name Lacetti refers only to the hatchback, while the sedan and station wagon are sold as Nubira. Also known as: UZ Daewoo Lacetti, Buick Excelle/HRV, Chevrolet Nubira, Chevrolet Optra, Chevrolet SRV, Holden Viva, and Vauxhall Viva.
The interior of the Lacetti is designed without frills but looks modern. Aluminum-look inserts are used in the trim. Ergonomics at the driver's seat are at a good level. The rear row is quite comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom, thanks to a wheelbase of 2600 mm — one of the largest in its class. The trunk of any version has a decent volume, which can be expanded by folding the rear seatback.
The Lacetti has a decent list of standard equipment. The SE version includes air conditioning, power steering, front airbags, ABS, height-adjustable driver's seat, and a CD player. The SX trim adds climate control, side airbags for front passengers, and fog lights. For those who prefer maximum comfort, the CDX version is available, which includes 15-inch alloy wheels, sport front seats with enhanced lateral support, and an armrest with cup holders.
On the Ukrainian market, gasoline four-cylinder engines were officially offered: a 1.6-liter E-TEC II producing 109 hp at 5800 rpm and a 1.8-liter E-TEC II producing 122 hp at 5800 rpm. They were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic (for the 1.6-liter version — manufactured by Aisin, for the 1.8-liter — by ZF). In 2009, the Lacetti and Cobalt were replaced by the new Chevrolet Cruze model.