The crisis has made its adjustments to consumer preferences. Those who were recently considering a Toyota Yaris or Honda Jazz are now forced to look for more affordable options in the B-class. And here the question arises: are there any inexpensive compact hatchbacks with an automatic transmission on the market at all?
Chevrolet Aveo is one of the most popular representatives of the so-called "550 club." Thanks to last year's exterior refresh and an interior styled in line with the brand's more expensive models, the car looks quite modern. However, there are downsides: the plastic in the cabin starts to creak over time, and visibility leaves much to be desired. But the suspension pleases with comfort and, importantly, handles our roads well.
As for fuel consumption, the manufacturer's claimed 6.4 liters per 100 km is more of an ideal condition. In real life, in mixed "dacha-city" cycle, the Aveo's appetite turned out to be 1.6 liters more. True, it's worth noting that the tests took place in summer on relatively free Moscow highways. With the arrival of autumn and spring, when roads are more congested, consumption may increase by another half a liter or even a full liter.
Maintenance of the car requires a visit to a service station every 15,000 kilometers. If you calculate, for the first year of ownership with a mileage of 20,000 kilometers, including the first maintenance for $220, maintaining a new Aveo will cost $1,486. And if you consider a longer perspective, say, seven years and 140,000 kilometers of mileage, and provided that no serious breakdowns occur, such as engine or gearbox replacement, the total expenses will amount to approximately $11,705.
Driving
Soft suspension and not the most precise steering response do not allow the Aveo to compete in handling with the best representatives of its class.
Interior
Inside, it is quite spacious, and the design is in the signature Chevrolet style.
Price
One of the most affordable B-class cars offered with an automatic transmission.
Pros and cons
- Pros: affordable price, nice design, spacious interior, availability of automatic transmission.
- Cons: mediocre visibility, poor sound insulation, creaking plastic in the cabin.
Specifications
Make and model – Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 LS Auto
Dimensions – 3920x1680x1505 mm
Engine – petrol, 1399 cm3, 101 hp/6400 rpm
Transmission – automatic, 4-speed gearbox
Dynamics – max 165 km/h; 13.1 s to 100 km/h
Competitors – Hyundai i20, KIA Rio