At the airport in Poland, about a dozen fresh Chevrolet Aveos were waiting for us. At first glance, it was not easy to distinguish the new three-door version from the regular one — the cars stood close together, covering each other. But as soon as you look at the silhouette, you notice that thanks to the large door and elongated rear window, the car looks much more dynamic.
The first hiccup happened even before the trip began. We couldn't figure out how to open the trunk to put our luggage in. There was no button in the cabin, and it was impossible to apply the key to the lock. After a short search, it turned out that the button is hidden above the license plate, but unlike most cars, it is not located in the center but slightly offset to the side. The problem was solved.
The first to be tested was the version with a 1.4-liter gasoline engine and a manual transmission. In total, the model will have two gasoline engines, the second being 1.2 liters. The larger unit produces 101 hp and 131 Nm of torque at 4200 rpm. The manufacturer calls this variant sporty, but with a 0-100 km/h time of over 11 seconds, it is more dynamic than truly fast. In city traffic and on the highway, you feel confident, but to keep the pace, you have to constantly keep the tachometer needle above 2000–3000 rpm and frequently work the gear lever. The manual's gear ratios are a bit long, which somewhat dulls acceleration. However, with the automatic transmission, which is only available with the 1.4 engine, the car accelerates more actively at low speeds, although it reaches 100 km/h in about the same time as with the manual. The automatic itself pleased — it shifts smoothly and quickly drops a gear when you need to accelerate sharply.
The second engine produces 84 hp, which is quite good for a 1.2-liter displacement — 12 hp more than the previous version. These figures were achieved thanks to two overhead camshafts, a four-valve cylinder head, and the PDA valve deactivation system, which improves cylinder filling and mixture combustion. But even with such characteristics, the power is just enough: for normal dynamics, you constantly need to rev the engine above 3000 rpm. The peak torque of 114 Nm comes at 3800 rpm. The official 0-100 km/h time is about 13 seconds, which is clearly not a fast figure. Partly to blame is compliance with Euro 4 standards. However, fuel consumption is reduced to 6 liters per 100 km.
If you try, on the version with the 1.2 engine, you can reach 172 km/h — just 4 km/h less than the 1.4. With the automatic transmission, the top speed is limited to 165 km/h.
Inside, the three-door is practically no different from the five-door version — their dimensions are the same. The large door provides convenient entry not only for the driver and front passenger but also for those settling in the back. Two average-sized passengers can sit there comfortably. The trunk seems small at first glance — only 220 liters, but if you fold the rear row, the volume grows to 980 liters.
Sales of the three-door Aveo in Russia have already started. All engines and transmissions are available. The starting price is 311,200 rubles, and the most fully equipped version will cost 458,469 rubles.
What to choose?
The three-door Chevrolet Aveo is offered in two base trims — Base and LS. The difference is that the Base only comes with the 1.2-liter engine. As for equipment, the LS gets power-adjustable and heated mirrors, central locking with remote control and alarm, a trip computer, an eyeglass holder, 185/55R15 tires, and body-colored door handles and mirrors. Prices for the Base range from 311,200 to 348,633 rubles, while the LS will cost from 354,353 to 458,469 rubles. The choice of trims will not disappoint.
Driving
The engines provide acceptable dynamics, but for this, you need to constantly keep the revs higher.
Interior
There is enough space inside, and it is convenient to get into the rear seats.
Comfort
The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty stiffness. For long trips, it is best to travel together.
Safety
Equipped with a standard set of safety systems.
Price
The low starting price will ensure steady demand and interest in the model among competitors.
Pros and cons
+ Fresh appearance, practical and comfortable interior.
- Not ideal gear ratio selection for manual transmissions.
Specifications
Make and model — Chevrolet Aveo
Dimensions — 3920x1680x1505 mm
Engine — gasoline, 1206 cm³, 84 hp/6000 rpm
Transmission — automatic, 5-speed
Dynamics — max 172 km/h; 12.8 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — Opel Corsa, Hyundai Getz, Peugeot 207, Ford Fiesta.
Our opinion
The three-door Chevrolet Aveo body turned out to be quite attractive. It clearly shows the designers' desire to make the car more dynamic and sporty. The Aveo is a city car with a set of the most necessary options, and this is confirmed by the affordable base price.