Overview

Apart from the vastly updated cabin and a few exterior style tweaks, the Chevrolet Aveo still closely resembles the ageing Kalos that it replaces. It’s certainly an improvement and passengers are treated to a more composed ride and fewer irritating trim rattles. That’s because the budget interior has been replaced by a smarter design. Well-assembled dashboard plastics are easier on the eye and the chrome-detailed buttons and switches are a much needed, upmarket revision.

But the unmistakeable similarities are difficult to ignore, so think of the Aveo as a facelifted model rather than an all-new car. Buyers looking for no-frills motoring, who can forgive low-quality in return for low-cost, should consider a cheaper Kalos instead. Otherwise, try better all-rounders like the Suzuki Swift or Vauxhall Corsa.