2008 Chevrolet Aveo Review

The Chevy Aveo, which is assembled by GM Daewoo in Korea, is offered in two body styles for 2008, a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback; the hatchbacks are called Aveo5.

Both models are powered by a 103-horsepower, 1.6L DOHC four-cylinder engine, which can be matched to a standard five-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic features a hold control mode, to hold a higher gear and aid traction on slippery roads.

All Aveo models have a MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar, and a compound-link rear independent suspension with gas-charged shocks, along with variable-rate power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Seat-mounted side air bags for front occupants are standard, and anti-lock brakes are optional across much of the line.

Both the sedan and hatchback feature theater-style rear seating, with a 60/40-split back seat that folds forward to expand the trunk are on sedans, or the cargo area on hatchbacks, for larger cargo.

The sedan is available in mid-range LS and well-equipped LT models, while the Aveo5 is offered in stripped-down SVM (Special Value Model) and LS trims. LS equipment is not equivalent between the two models. On LS sedans, standard features include tilt steering, a rear defogger, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo with auxiliary input. The SVM Aveo5 model comes without air conditioning or side air bags. On Aveo5 LS models, anti-lock brakes, fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, a sunroof, and CD player are added. LT sedan models come with the most standard features, including heated outside mirrors, keyless entry, and a six-speaker CD/MP3 sound system.

New 15-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels are available on all LS models and standard on the LT sedan. Other noteworthy options include steering wheel audio control, a power sunroof and, on the LT, perforated leatherette seats.
For 2008, the upscale Chevy Aveo LT sedan gets chrome door handles, and an available Power Package, which includes power windows and locks and remote keyless entry. New-design 15-inch alloy wheels are available across the lineup.

Also, the sedan's suspension has been retuned with a firmer setting for more precise handling. see less