Chevrolet Aveo (NEW FOR 2007!)

Impressions: The Korean-built Aveo has turned out to be a tremendously popular Chevrolet model and the company has responded for 2007 by investing in this most basic of basic transportation modules. The sedan redesign (the hatchback carries over for the time being) means the Aveo grows ever-so-slightly in size while, according to Chevrolet, new styling cues are intended to make it look more substantial. Under the hood, however, it's the same story: a 103-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic. Base LS sedan equipment includes side-impact airbags, air conditioning and tilt steering wheel. The LT adds 15-inch alloy wheels, heated outside mirrors, cruise control, keyless entry and a six-speaker premium sound system. To the LT you can add a power sunroof and a premium sound system. If it sounds as though there's more cooking inside the Aveo this year, you'd be right as many manufacturers are realizing that we don't mind spending money on decking out our cars with features, we just don't like to spend money on gasoline to run them. Conventional wisdom is that cheap-to-operate cars have to be cheap cars. In the next few years, as gas prices continue to rise, this attitude will change as you'll see entry level cars gain features (as options) normally reserved for larger and pricier rides. The Aveo, although not the best in its class when it comes to fuel economy still pulls down 27 m.p.g. in the city and 37 on the highway (Chevy's estimated numbers). The five-door hatch continues to be available in a base $9,400 model that's pretty much devoid of anything that isn't pertinent to forward motion, turning or stopping. Base price: $9,400 Type: Four-door sedan/hatchback Base engine (hp): 1.6-liter DOHC I4 (103) Optional engine: None Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.) Mileage (city/hwy): 27/37 (MT) Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags Weight (lb.): 2,540 (sedan) Basic warranty: 3/36,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: chevrolet.com