Offered in bright colors like Summer Yellow, Spicy Orange and Victory Red and with optional bike racks and rear spoilers, Chevy's entry level Aveo is clearly aimed at the younger end of the market segment. But, its excellent fuel mileage and interior flexibility could make this vehicle popular with more mature drivers as a second car or commuter special.
Two body styles are available; the Aveo5 hatchback and the 4 door sedan, like the one we drove. Although each body style comes in two trim levels, the basic LS and the slightly more upscale LT, we found it almost impossible to tell the difference between the two. The optional fog lamps and trunk spoiler were available on both trims. The only features exclusive to the LT were certain body colors, heated dual rear view mirrors and the 15-inch aluminum wheels. 14-inch aluminum wheels are optional on the LS.
There is one engine choice for all models and trim levels, a 1.6 liter 16 valve Dual overhead cam 4 that puts out 103 horsepower and 107 pound feet of torque. A manual 5-speed transmission comes standard with a 4-speed automatic, with "Hold" function optional. The "Hold" feature overrides the normal shifting of the automatic transmission allowing the driver to remain in a selected gear to maximize traction on slippery roads and in downhill driving situations. Braking is provided by front disc and rear drums with ABS optional.
The interior theme for the 5 passenger Aveo is functionality. 60/40 folding rear seats allow for three passengers and can extend the capacity of the trunk for up to 42 cubic feet of cargo space. Our test Aveo came with up rated fabric upholstery, an AM/FM stereo with CD/MP3 player, and auxiliary audio input jack. The standard tilt-steering wheel had optional cruise and audio controls. Both front and seat-mounted side impact air bags are standard.
MSRP for the 2008 Chevy Aveo base 4 door sedan is $12,165. The Aveo 5 starts at only $10,030.
The EPA estimates fuel mileage at 24 City and 34 Highway for the five speed transmission, slightly less with the automatic.
For an economical and fun small car, The 2008 Chevrolet Aveo has a lot to offer and gets great gas mileage, too.