Until recently, the Russian Chevrolet lineup did not include a single compact minivan. Now this niche is filled by the Rezzo model, which faces a tough fight against rivals such as the Ford Focus C-MAX, Renault Scenic, and Opel Zafira.
2004 Chevrolet Rezzo
© Photo: Chevrolet
The Rezzo's exterior, like that of other Korean Chevrolet models, was crafted by European designers. In different countries, the car is sold under different names: in Korea, Germany, France, and Russia — Rezzo, and in Italy and Switzerland — Tacuma. From Italian, "Rezzo" translates as "light breeze," and it seems the creators truly tried to embody this airy theme. The body sides feature intricate lines that seem to mimic air currents. There are small slots under the headlights, and impressive air intakes on the bumper. The teardrop-shaped rear lights appear to be "blown" by the wind onto the rear window. Despite all the original solutions, the exterior turned out controversial. The huge glass area is an undoubted plus for visibility, but it also gives the body a visual heaviness.
The interior looks aesthetically more pleasing. The two-tone trim creates a sense of spaciousness. Here again, one can recall the wind: the front panel seems to float in the air. All lines are smooth and calm. However, the trim materials feel not as solid as they appear. In cars of this class, an abundance of compartments, cubbies, and various gadgets for small items has become customary. In the Rezzo, there are only three cup holders, door pockets, and a rather modest glove box. Among the pleasant touches are tables for rear passengers and niches in the floor.
2004 Chevrolet Rezzo
© Photo: Chevrolet
It is comfortable to sit behind the wheel, although in some places you expect a higher seating position. The only complaint is the steering column — it was never possible to adjust it to fit. The front seats pleased with a good profile and developed lateral support. The rear bench easily accommodates three, with enough space both in width and for legs. The interior transformation is also in order: the backrest of the middle rear seat folds down into a convenient wide armrest-table with cup holders. All three rear seats fold independently, forming a spacious trunk with an almost flat floor. On the sides of the trunk, there are several compartments for small items, so storing tools and various odds and ends will not be a problem. On the move, the family Chevrolet behaves quite decently, but there is a quirk in the combination of shock absorbers and springs: the suspension is tuned somewhat stiffly, yet the car noticeably rolls. However, even during sharp maneuvers, the Rezzo remains safe and predictable.
Under the hood is an engine from the Lacetti, but detuned to 90 hp. The power of the 1.6-liter motor is enough for both city and highway. To drive confidently, you have to keep the revs in the mid-range. On the tachometer, the zone from 1500 to 2500 rpm is even highlighted in green — as the most economical mode. Above 4000 rpm, you don't want to rev the engine: it starts to work too loudly. The gear ratios are well chosen, but the impression is spoiled by the vague operation of the shift mechanism and the long lever travel.
The main trump card of the Rezzo on the Russian market will likely be the price. Only two trim levels are available in showrooms. The base one — with a 1.6-liter engine producing 90 hp, manual gearbox, air conditioning, radio with steering wheel controls, central locking, power windows, power mirrors, front and side airbags. Such a car costs $17,020. For an additional $800, you can get climate control and alloy wheels.
Technical specifications of Chevrolet Rezzo
Body type – station wagon
Number of seats – 5
Curb weight, kg – 1275
Gross weight, kg – 1828
Dimensions (length/width/height), mm – 4350/1755/1580
Wheelbase, mm – 2600
Trunk volume, l – 325/1320
Maximum speed, km/h – 167
Acceleration time to 100 km/h, s – 12.2
Fuel consumption, l/100 km:
- city cycle – 10.9
- highway – 6.7
- combined – 8.3
Fuel tank volume, l – 60
Engine:
- type – 4-cylinder, with fuel injection
- displacement, cm3 – 1598
- power, hp at rpm – 90/5200
- torque, Nm at rpm – 145/4200
Transmission – manual, 5-speed
Suspension – independent
Brakes:
- front – disc, ventilated
- rear – disc
Steering – rack and pinion, with power assist
Price, $ – 17,020.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Price, good visibility.
– Quality of materials, gearbox operation.
© 5 Koleso