Chevrolet road test reports and car reviews

Chevrolet Tacuma 2.0l cdx 2004

 

This is a great car, but yes it does have it’s bad points, the road tax being one as it’s very high, which is a little annoying. It can also drink a lot of petrol. However, the good points do out weigh anything bad about it. I have the 2.0l cdx 04, which was cheap to buy; I got mine for £1600 with 40k on the clock. It has good visibilty, perfect boot space, perfect leg room and a lot of storage for the kids things. I love this car and would say it is well worth the money.

 

Chevrolet Tacuma 2 litre cdx auto 2007

This car cannot tow and it struggled with a family of four, so much so it bottomed out! It has no power and drinks petrol; I know of 3 litre cars that drink less petrol than this one and the inside just falls apart around you. Avoid it at all costs.

Chevrolet Captiva 2008

I bought this second hand with 40,000 on the clock and I can confirm, as with all other reviews, that this is a great car. Mine was bought from a main dealer and it came with a few minor issues (rear tail gate was leaking), but the dealer was fantastic and had it fixed in no time and with no hassle. As far as driving goes it’s really comfortable and the engine pulls really well. Yes there is a tiny bit of diesel grumble first thing in the morning, but it goes away quickly. The seven seat option has been really useful for me and as far as fuel goes it’s pretty good for a vehicle of it’s size and weight. The interior is just right, not too busy or bland and pretty well made (my kids haven’t damaged it yet). All in all a great car and a great ownership experience. And yes, I will buy another no problem.

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon SX 1,6 Petrol 2005

This is an excellent car for the money. Bought it in spring 2006 with 15000 km on the odometer, now it has done 100 000 km. I have follow the scheduled service plan. Besides that the only work needed was to fix the brakes, only normal wear though, no rust at all and the interior shows no signs of wear after six years, that’s great. It has everything I look for in a car, comfort, roomy, easy to handle in everyday life. Both me and my family love this car.

Chevrolet Epica 2008

I’ve had this car as a taxi for three years and now I’m selling it cause it’s finally paid for. Comfy enough but an average of 32mpg is no good and it usually needs dealership parts, as in £300 for a cv joint. Glad to see the back of it.

Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 2009

I have had my aveo for about 3 months now, so far so good for a basic cheap car. I find it good for long journeys especially on the motorway. It is slighty underpowered through the gears being a steady accelaration but it gets there. Could do with a bit more room in the back for longer adults. The rear seat folds right into the back of the front ones giving plenty of boot space. Overall I am pleased with the car for my needs.

Chevrolet Cruze 2011

The car is amazing. I usually drive a TRD Fj Cruiser and switching to this vehicle was wonderful. Had great handling and while you listened to the turbo you feel like you’re 16 again. I would recommend this car to many clearly because of its 42mpg interstate performance. Great car, Chevy, I hope you guys make more like this.

Chevrolet Aveo 1.2 ls 2009

I have owned my Aveo for 10 days and hate it. I bought it feeling that no car could be this awful but the Aveo has to be the most uncomfortable car I have ever had the misfortune to drive. After 360 miles in the driving seat I could hardly walk and my back was in an agonising spasm which has taken 7 days to recover. I drive a variety of vehicles and can normally make myself comfortable in them all but the Aveo just does not have the basics right and this makes a poor driving position worse. The padding at the top of the driving seat digs painfully into my upper back although there is no issue with metal or similar sticking through the design/execution is poor. Below the shoulder padding is a hollow leaving the lower back and base of the spine unsupported. Resulting in the searing pain for some body types. I really cannot comment on the long term costs of ownership as I aim to dispose of the Aveo in very short order at large cost to my personal savings. IF you are tempted to buy an AVEO make sure you drive it for at least an hour, you owe it to your personal comfort and health.

Chevrolet Captiva ltz 2.0 auto 2010

It’s the second captiva for me.The first was the 2.0 lt auto, and the only problem I had was from the ESC coming on whilst travelling. This caused the engine revs to slow as the cars computer thought the car was in a skid, but this was sorted out. The new version I have is the ltz auto. I am very pleased with this and the only "fault" I have is the alarm system light on the dash (next to the clock) doesn’t come on when the system is activated, but hopefully the dealers will sort this out for me. Otherwise like I said, very pleased with this new model.

Chevrolet Tacuma 2007

This is a good drive and not over pricey in the MPG range. I love the fact you can basically climb into it without hurting your back. The only problem I find with my CDX is that it seems to pull in high winds unless I have a problem I don’t know about. There’s plenty of room inside, love the fact you can use it as manual as well. My only objection regarding this vehicle is the fact that even though it is only a 2.0 automatic it costs me about £234 every six months for tax. Why is this I wonder?. I personally think the Goverment are taking the mickey as it is grossly over priced, after all it is only a 2.0 well actually 1999cc..

Chevrolet Matiz 1.0 se + 2007

Love my little Matiz. Had her from new and she’s been great for me, cheap to run and so good to drive, I will miss her when I upgrade to a Chevrolet Spark in about a year.

Chevrolet Aveo Cruze 2011

I wouldn’t own a Chevy Aveo Cruze if I won one for free. I would immediately sell it. It’s a beautiful car, but how could the designers not notice that there are major blind spots? I do not like to not rely on my rear and side view mirrors but actually TURN MY HEAD and look out to the side to see if there is a car coming up on me. Forget it with the Cruze. You can’t see anything due to the metal divider between the doors. Very dangerous. I know I would side swipe someone for sure.

Chevrolet Matiz 1.0 se 2009

Had delivery on it at 8.30am today,done over 70 miles and fuel gauge has not moved, STILL ON quarter of a tank. Bit bumpy around town, open road bit hairy, but for £99 per month lease 5 stars. If I get more employees i’ll get loads of these. Brilliant value for money.

Chevrolet Matiz 2009

I’ve had one of these before, fantasic on fuel though, I do freeroll a lot down hills, (a habit I’ve got used to I’m afraid). It’s coming tomorrow on a 3 year contract hire. I’m a self employed telecoms agent so I only drive locally, Credit record is appaling thanks to Experian messing up my file (lots of false info) so being self employed I thought for tax reasons I’d get a hire vehicle, cheap and cheerful. As my dad said years ago "Son, a third class ride is better than a first class walk" that’s how I base these cars, better than walking, tax next to zero.

Chevrolet Kalos 5 door hatchback 2008

I have had the car for 3 years now and it has just undergone the first MOT. I find the car economical to drive and comfortable with good heating and effective air conditioning. The road handling can be a little sloppy at times and the acceleration is not very good, but the car reaches motorway cruising speeds and holds the speed well, except on the steepest of inclines. Could not have got a better vehicle at the price.

Chevrolet Avalanche 2002

I love it.

Chevrolet Matiz 1.0SE 2010

This is my second Matiz, the first was an auto but my new one is a manual 1 litre. Great car, loads of room inside, very reliable , just one niggle which is not a fault just the way they are, when changing gear the revs go slighlty up before dropping. I will get used to living with this, but for just over £4k with 1000 miles on it was a bargain not to be missed and with air con now that’s a plus.

Chevrolet Matiz 2009

I bought my car 01.07.2009 after 2 weeks I found the problem with sticky gearbox. Twice in service still unsolved as service can’t find the fault. Service package with new car is not recommended by me.

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon 2008

Excellent car. One of the most comfortable to drive i have ever owned. Good turn of speed and reasonable mpg. Cruises easily on motorways (e.g. a superb drive to and from Edinburgh). Bags of room for passengers and cargo. Great value for money.

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon 2006

An excellent car. I look for practicality and value in my cars and this has them. It has great carrying capacity and is loaded with useful extras and storage areas and has proved very reliable. Bought it new nearly 5 years ago and no regrets. Only outlays have been two tyres, wiper blades and washer pump, about £250 all together. Not bad over five years. One small criticism - the horn sounds like a gnat breaking wind.

Chevrolet Tacuma 2008

I bought my Tacuma with only 9 miles on the clock. In the two years I have had it the problems have been: 1) Cylinder head removed and new valves fitted at 31k 2) 40k - replacement anti-roll bar link arms replaced (when new the rear seats were rusty underneath the upholstery). It had been in a showroom for 12 months. Please contact me if you wish terryjohn1948@yahoo.co.uk.

Responses to this review

I was thinking of buying a MPV car for decent money, would a Chevrolet be considered? Sean Kearns from Northamptonshire

Chevrolet Aveo 1400 LT 2008

The front suspension has been replaced twice on both front, the back twice on one side and once on other. The clock replaced. The electic window module replaced. The clutch makes a noise when pulling away in 1st gear. The engine isn’t smooth. 25,000 miles. This has got to be the worst car I have ever had. Chevrolet engineered parts are pure rubbish and not fit for purpose. Never again an American car.

Chevrolet Matiz 2010

Brilliant car. However, had an accident recently. Was intending to change gear and put foot on brake pedal by mistake. Police officer advised that pedals were close together in this make of vehicle due to the fact that it is a small car and there is not much room underneath the drivers cab. Never happened to me in my previous 2002 Matiz but am now very cautious when changing gear or braking, making sure I have my left foot on the correct pedal!!!

Chevrolet Cruze LT Diesel 2010

My Cruze is just two months old. It is a comfortable car and performance is perfectly adequate. The hard plastic surfaces scratch far too easily, in particular on the threshold, "B" pillar where the seat belt buckle zips back, and also the ignition key surround. This problem was inherited from Daewoo and is a pity they didn’t change the plastic composition. Loud suspension thumps over everything but the smoothest roads, but there is no shock felt in the cabin. Other than that it is a very good ride and handling is superb. The problem with DPF’s is not limited to one manufacturer and Chevrolet certainly are not imune to this. My own car has been in and out of the workshop 3 or four times to do with DPF faults. Last Monday a sensor was replaced on the DPF but by Friday, and less that 200Km later, the warning light came on again which made another motorway run in low gear necessary. The DPF technology as it stands today is rubbish. No manufacturer has sorted out the regeneration process efficiently enough and as a result fuel consumption can be more than a petrol engine. The latest fill-up this morning calculates my Cruze at 26MPG when according to the manufacturer average should be over 40MPG.

Responses to this review

I agree with your review. I have the Cruze Diesel 2.0 LT Vcdi auto. The fuel consumption is very poor only 27.4 mpg over the last 300 miles both Town & Motorway. Car purchased March 2010 mileage 3000 miles have never experienced a regen. The instrumentation is unsafe and inaccurate, when going fast it is virtually impossible to read the instruments when wearing sunglasses.The car has totally useless & annoying features auto lights, rainsensing wipers yet lacks essential features found on Dodge Caliber. e.g. Essential Tyre pressure monitor, powered foldback door mirrors, compass, chilled drinks locker, superb accurate instrumentation, independant trip odometers, front map lights illuminate when opening doors. Best features of the Cruze are full size spare steel wheel & parking sensors fitted as standard. Car hardly sells in England have never seen another one on the road, car available with £3k discount plus 3 years free service - Gerald Bearman from England

I agree with Ken’s review I am also getting 26.4mpg, which is not good enough for a Diesel. I got the same from my Petrol Dodge Caliber SXT CVT, which had much better features. Excellent instruments which can read when going fast or when wearing sunglasses. I miss the accurate tyre pressure monitor, powered foldback door mirrors, compass, independant trip odometers, chilled drinks locker, leather seats, front map lights illuminating when opening doors. CRUZE has very annoying Auto lights & useless rainsensing wipers, both unnecessary. Best feature of Cruze is the provision of full size steel spare wheel. It does drive better than the Caliber. Poor sales in UK has caused GM to offer 5 year warranty, 5 year free service and 5 year breakdown cover plus free MOT’s up to 50,000 miles. I shall not buy another Cruze unless it is improved to the US specification - Gerald Bearman from England

It’s a bit strange this report has been posted verbatim on a number of different websites - what does this fellow have against the car? Or is he a salesman for Dodge? I have bought a Diesel Cruze and so far it’s very good. No question about that. Cars as good are either old and/or have 10,000+ miles on the clock or cost a good deal more. Personally I am delighted with the vehicle. It is so much better than the cars I have compared it to - Lorne from Ayrshire

I’ve had the 2 litre diesel since May last year. Overall it is a good car except for the tramping rear suspension noise and the awful fuel consumption. I would have to agree with Ken on this as my consumption is even worse. Chevrolet tell me that everything is in order, but I should change my driving style to exceed 2000RPM in every gear. Doing this has not improved matters and just creates an untenable racket inside the cab. I am concerned that using these revs the engine will have a very short life. In town at these revs I can’t get out of 2nd gear at normal speeds and even on country roads I don’t seem to be out of 3rd gear very much. Even motorway driving at 70MPH is hardly enough to get out of 4th gear. I should have bought something else. Why did all the reviews not discover this makes me wonder! Eric Blades from Cheshire

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon 2008

I have had loads of new cars including Mercs, this car is the best value I have had for the money, the Mercedes cars lost more in year one than this estate cost, real good value, purchased from the car people.

Chevrolet Captiva VCDI 2.0 Automatic gearbox with manual override 2007

Before I bought it I considered lots of similar cars, Santa Fé, Sorento, Mitsubishi Outlander, I even tried a top level Touareg, and MB ... I ended up with the conclusion that the Chevy was the most balanced one. Mine is the 7 seater, 4x4 150Hp version, it has an automatic gearbox with manual override, and beige leather seats and wood like applications on doors and dashboard. The problem most guys have with the precision of the gearbox in my case doesn’t apply, because of the automatic transmission, it’s a bonus... I’m very pleased with it. Of course it has its pros and cons, for instance running with a cold engine is not very enjoyable, lack of power and very noisy, but after a few miles it’s smooth like any other. Of course if it had a diesel 2.5 L 6 cylinders or so engine with a few more Hp it probably would be more agile, but like I said it’s a balanced product. If there was one thing that they could have that they lack it is a GPS integrated system, and the posibility of a USB entrance on the audio system. Also they could have designed a bi-sided independent A/C, and more outlets of the A/C on the rear 3rd row, because the windows have a tendency to experience condensation. In general it’s a very good vehicle, well built and "honest". If I had to choose again I would buy it again! Congratulations to Chevy!

Responses to this review

Now you’ve got the electronic amenities you’re asking for. GPS, mobile telecomunications, backing up camera, video/audio access ports. Performs as specified. no gimmicks, just ride one and you’ll see the difference. No late appointments for me in short notice. Fitted for the wise filipino family - dominic eli areno from Philippines

Chevrolet Matiz SE 2008

Awful! Cheap plastic - felt safer in a Sinclair C5! Ridiculously noisy at anything over 40 mph - cannot keep up with dual carriage way traffic. I cannot wait to give it back. Nil points - rather buy a bicycle. Street credibility of a week old kebab - only good point is that my teenage son will not stop laughing at me.

Chevrolet Captiva LT 7 SEATER 2009

I bought the car after looking at the Freelander, couldn’t get the price down. I managed to get our 7 seater for 13,000 new and we all still love it, my wife, 2 kids and our chocolate lab have loads of room. It handles well, I’ve had it off road to go salmon fishing and it was no problem. I’ve had 40 mpg out the car on long runs and we’ve had it on holiday. For the price it really is some buy. We had 2 new Vauxhall Zafirias before this one, this has more torque, better seats at the back and I can use the car for light off road work. Kids love it, real value for money. Engine noise little high in town but fine on the motorway.

Chevrolet Matiz 2006

Not a bad City Hopper. Ideal for driving around in the city or town to get your shopping in. Its roomy inside and four adults can easily and comfortable sit and have even leg room, however the roof height should be a bit higher due to if one is on the tall side has to bend their neck slightly. This car is good value for money in regards to mileage coverage and parts. Would be also suitable for a first time driver due to low insurance class. All in all a nice nippy car to own.

Chevrolet Cruze LS 125PS Diesel 2009

For motoring in some syle at very sensible money that won’t bring your bank manager out in a sweat - and at the same time offering a level of opulence that would bring a smile to the ghost of Elvis - this compact sedan provides more than you might expect, for less than you might anticipate. Cruze prices start at £11,495. The 2.0litre 125PS diesel LS tested here costs £14,9950.). At first sight to the British motorist, this sleek, dark and purposeful car has the air of a man of mystery. It looks purposeful - but to what end? It holds secrets impossible to pigeonhole. What sort of man or woman might one expect to find behind the wheel? Is it a force for good or a harbinger of hard times? I’m pleased to tell you that like the famous chocolate with the wrapper off - all is magic within. Coming from General Motor’s former Daewoo plant in Korea, but soon to be produced in Ohio for the American market, it’s a quantum step forward in quality terms from previous Daewoo models. While the world is full of hatchbacks, Chevy are giving us a Focus sized ’sedan’ (four door saloon car if you’re a ’proper’ chap) based on the new GM floor-plan, upon which the new Astra is also built. While the cabin does not exude the opulence of luxury class cars, it reassures with a pleasing level of ergonomically and aesthetically tailored design - allowing driver and passenger alike, a comfortable reassuring ambience that enforces no extremes and yet incorporates an element of ’flair’ to lift it above the mundane. In a phrase, the cabin imposes dignity - but dignity with a touch of dash. There’s a chrome high-tech feel to the business like appendages in the LS, second from top spec. model tested, while the upholstery and surrounds are sober suited, styled for comfort, easy on the eye and - one has to say - easy on the pocket too. Eschewing the more obvious retro references favoured by lovers of Americana, it none the less embodies through style cues, a notion of ’Transatlantic’ taste: witness the bold Chevy logo on the front grille. Drive away and the clutch engages positively with the torquey (300Nm at just 2000 rpm) engine feeling ready to go from the off. Controls are readily, immediately, unequivocally and assuredly to hand. Drive half a mile along the road and despite the short acquaintance you feel you already ’know’ the car. It’s a motorcar that you feel sure won’t let you down and most certainly will never engender a frown. You know from the support that the seats give to your back that the designers knew exactly what they were doing - and the same sense of confidence attaches itself to the dynamics of the car in motion. The merest hint of torque steer serves only to establish a feeling of contact with the terrain. Drive boldly and performance from the 2.0litre,125PS diesel (you can have a 150PS diesel if you choose the LT variant) is - despite what has been muttered elsewhere and by those who should know better - more than adequate,with an achievable top speed of over 120 mph. Economy too is jolly good, with 45mpg easily achievable overall. Pussyfoot about and you would, no doubt, get around 60mpg on a decent run. Never do the mechanicals feel under stress and you’re always in for a smooth and quiet ride.(one of the benefits of a saloon over a hatchback). Handling is good too, with rapid travel never disturbing the Chevy’s equilibrium. Want to stop? Braking is as easy as thinking. Acceleration is amply sufficient: lively enough for a car half the size - brisk enough to elicit an ’Oh Dear!’ From the vicar - but slam the anchors on and all is sacred and holy once more. Was that a flash of silver? A cloud of dust? Well no, actually - but this car certainly has a ’Yipee yi yey!’ quality to it. And nothing could be finer than a trip to Carolina in a Chevy of this pedigree. In case you haven’t guessed, I like this car because it’s different. Not only that, but because it’s different in a good way. It has the hallmark of originality so lamentably lacking in the current new car market. It ticks all the boxes, but manages to box clever and makes the driver feel part of quite a special machine. It’s a car for the sensible individual who likes a dash of individuality - but not at the expense of good solid sense and taste. There’s nothing here to frighten your granny and yet there’s plenty to appease the young at heart. At the price it surely has to be a bargain. As the man said ’Why pay more?’ You can if you must, but for me, all’s OK with the cars in the Chevy corral. With this model pitched most competitively at a challenging market sector, I have to say that Chevrolet have definitely won their spurs. I’d love to see prospective purchasers galloping down to the showroom. We’ve come a long way from the covered wagon and it’s good to see that happy trails are here to stay.

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon 2009

I am a disabled person and have had several vehicles but the Lacetti station wagon has been the best I have had. It is comfortable and drives very well, I like the automatic box which unlike some cars you can hardly feel any gear change. The specs on this car are as good as the astra, focus and many more cars with electric windows all round air con, central locking lots of extra storage compartments. The boot is very roomy and is a good level from the ground which is ideal for lifting my wheelchair in and out of it as is the split seating for longer larger items, 12v power socket in boot, a very good 1.8 engine. The only draw back is the mpg which depending on the way you drive can give around 28-32 mpg but this is the only minus I can give and would definitely recomend this car. I will have another unless something of the cost give as much value - Andrew Seddon from Lancashire

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 VCDi LT 7 seat 2008

This vehicle does what it says on the tin. Firstly the ’cons’. The diesel engine is a bit agricultural for a modern day vehicle. At idle and around town you are aware that is an oil burner, but once underway it quietens down significantly making it a peaceful tourer. The gearbox is rather notchy making baulked gear changes very possible until you get used to its foibles. The intermittent wiper speed selector is fiddly and the front/rear fog light switch is not very intuitive. The good poins. The diesel engine has good pull between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm and can get you around slower traffic without to many frey hairs. Interior space is very good with seats 6 and 7 being full size (but a bit restricted on leg length). The on demand 4 wheel drive works without fuss and during a recent snowy spell the vehicle never lost its grip at all, even on standard road tyres. The hill descent control is just magic. Fuel consumption has been around 32 mpg on bendy country lanes and in town. On a motorway run at the legal speed limit it is nearer 40 mpg. Steering and ride are a bit ’American’, non-precise steering, but this is not meant to be a sports car is it? You can see its American design even if was built for the European market and assembled in Korea. The USA version is called the Saturn Vue and has the obligatory gas guzzling engine. This vehicle is worth every pound of its price.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0Cdi LT 7 Seats 2008

I have thoroughly enjoyed this car since taking delivery in March 2008. It is a pleasure to drive both in town and on the motorway where it cruises almost nioselessly. It’s versatile having extra seats when you need them, when folded down into the boot floor the bootspace will take almost anything you are likely to want to move. Would I recommend it ? - 100% yes, you will not be disappointed.

Chevrolet Matiz 1.0 SE 2006

This was my first car and I have found it to be highly suitable; reasonable manoeuvrability coupled with good fuel economy made this car ideal for my predominantly around town trips. The main problem with this car is that you cannot fit in the back unless you disassemble your lower body first.

Chevrolet Matiz 2008

Had this car on lease - never again. Felt very small and unstable. Parking was easy, about the only positive thing. Terrifying to drive on busy roads, not enough oumff to get anywhere fast, possibly the worst car I have ever driven really glad to hand it back.

Chevrolet Lacetti 4 Door 1.8 Sport Manual 2008

Nice looking car and very cheap to buy but very bad on fuel - 37 mpg on a run and 23 around town. I’ve covered 15,000 miles in this car and it’s been in to Chevrolet 8 times due to a missfire that still hasn’t been sorted out. They have used every excuse from dirty fuel to egr valve, the customer service is very bad and they will make any excuse to not do the work under warranty. So if you’re thinking of getting one of these... think to yourself - the price is cheap but it will cause you a headache in the future.

Chevrolet Epica LT 2009

I’ve just ordered mine and am looking forward to part exchanging my 2006 Mondeo for it. Yes, depreciation is undoubtedly high but at this low starting price it’s still fantastic value. I’ve had a lengthy test drive and while fast corners are handled a bit less elegantly than in a Mondeo, it is quieter, more comfortable, has masses more kit and is a whole lot more distinctive in the car park. Lose your prejudice and try one!

Responses to this review

Mark, can I have your update having driven this car for 6 months? Cheers - Colin Blanchard from Cheshire

Chevrolet Epica LT 2008

Weak engine, non responsive, unpleasant noise made by gearbox.

Chevrolet Tacuma 1.6 SX 2005

Very good value for money, I have a 55 plate Tacuma on a Chevrolet badge, picked it up for £2500 with only 31,000 miles on the clock, but this car is equipped with everything It can be a little thirsty around town, but on a long journey it is very economical. The car is very comfortable to drive, and looks good on the outside. Plenty of space on the inside, and plenty of leg room for everyone. The car is a real pleasure to drive.

Chevrolet Lacetti 5 Door 1.6 2004

It’s a good car but just I’ve got a problem with the petrol it gets through. I spend a lot of money on petrol for this 1.6 - £35 a week to do about about 100miles.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 VDCi 7 Seats. 2008

After several months of searching for a replacement for my Vectra Elite, I finally chose the Captiva and I’m very pleased. The car looks more expensive than it was and I’ve recieved lots of admiring glances and good comments from friends and neighbours. The drive can be a little bouncy on poor roads but despite many reviews I’ve read the car is superb on motorways and A roads. The engine has plenty of power and overtaking is no problem. The car easily accomodates 2 adults, 2 growing kids and a dog along with large amounts of luggage. The main benefit is no more complaints of ’feeling sick’ coming from the back which was a constant whine with the Vectra. The added bonus of the seven seats is great for days out with grandparents although the dog has to stay at home! To sum up a great car for the growing family who can’t afford a big german equivalent.

Chevrolet Aveo 2008

We have had this car since July 2008 and find it really good apart from one major safety problem - the drivers side door mirror is not convex and this means there is a very bad blind spot; you can not see a car or motorbike if it is closer than three metres behind the back of of the Aveo. It’s at its worse when the drivers seat is further forward. The dealer is trying to sort the problem out but is not having a lot of luck. Has anyone else had this problem?

Responses to this review

Yes, I agree about the mirror. I even missed a 30 FT truck in the blind spot today! I've had a hire car for a day. It's very good for what I presume to be a cheap car, but it's a bit tinny and has a weak engine when compared with dearer marques. Pedals seem poorly positioned, but handling is very good - Phil Mason from Yorkshire

I have the problem with plain glass on the Aveo i have bought. Can anyone tell me if the dealer is obliged to replace it with convex glass? The manual says both door mirrors are convex. I have bought it from new - Terence Ginder from Warwickshire

Chevrolet Tacuma 1.6 SX 2005

I wanted an MPV for a family of five on a budget. The Tacuma was a cracking bargain at least £2k less than the equivalent Renault Megane which is a good comparison. Okay, so there is no diesel option, the emissions are not brilliant, and the 2.0 litre version will get hit hard when the new higher vehicle tax band are introduced in 2010 (so avoid it!). The 1.6 engine will do the job but it is a little noisy when worked hard and only averages 35mpg, but there are no known faults with the unit and if driven like a family car, it’s fine. Good points are interior space, three proper seat belts in the back for the kids (i.e. no lap straps) good sized boot and unbelievable value for money. It’s comfortable, there are lots of cubby holes for bits and bobs inside and the styling is a bit quirky, which I quite like in an odd sort of way. I have seen Tacumas’ with only 10 miles on the clock in dealers for £1800 under new price. The deprecation is vicious on newer models and a genuine 3 year old car can easily be had for £3k with about 20-30,000 miles on the clock - that is real VFM, which every family will appreciate. It won’t set the world on fire but as a people transporter for not much money it is hard to beat.

Chevrolet Aveo 1.2s 2008

I have owned this car for a month or so. It represented excellent value for money. It is very well equipped for a base model [4 speaker CD stereo!!!], 4 air bags, 3 year warranty, 3 [yes 3] year AA roadside assistance. I paid an extra £199 for 3 years servicing. I love the car, it’s well built and roomy for a small car, it’s very, very good on petrol. The engine is a well tried Vauxhall Corsa 1.2 which are very reliable; its nippy in town and OK on the motorway. Great value motoring. Nobody could touch the deal Chevy gave me on this car.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 vcdi auto 7 seater 2008

I have bought a Captiva 7 seater and it gives me the best of all worlds , I have plenty of room and comfort for very little money GM have got it right , a 4x4,an estate car, a van, a saloon car, an MPV, so many variations in one vehicle and on top of all this elegance with very nice sporty clean crisp lines with the executive look, what other car company gives all this for so little money. Well, GM have won me over and with 50 years of cars and driving behind me I’m won over so I will stay with GM, I only wish this car had been in the UK earlier, so thank you GM and keep up the good work, Ron.

Chevrolet Kalos sx auto 2007

Had’ Katie’ the Kalos for five months or so now. Our nickname sums up how both my wife and myself feel about her. A cosy, comfortable hatchback that represents remarkably good value for money. ’Katie’ is well put together, and everything works fine, just as it should. The heater is really efficient, as is the air conditioning. Although some of it looks, well, a bit utilitarian, it’s the overall driving experience we both like. Would we have another? We will certainly consider the Aveo as a replacement eventually, as long as the price remains competitive. We like it, for what it is reliable, comfortable, and well within our limited budget.

Chevrolet Kalos 1.2 2007

I had this car on hire; it had done 17,000 miles, so I suppose it’s not entirely fair to compare it with a new one, or even a carefully privately owned one, but ye Gods, the gearbox was atrocious! The travel on the clutch pedal (in 1st and 2nd, particularly) was so long before the bite that my foot was off the floor and my knee nearly up to my ear - quite exhausting on a long, varied drive. Once in 5th, though, on motorways, it managed fine till we reached any upward incline - then there was a bit of a struggle - but it is only a 1.2, after all. I liked the dash instruments, but the seats and other trim were a bit cheap. However, if you can bear the gearing, and just want a runabout, this would be OK. Not for me, though.

Chevrolet Captiva LTX 2007

Lets start with the bad, the steering is very light (but this aids parking) and you loose the feel of the road when driving especially at speed. The view out the back is poor but that has been compensated for by large wing mirrors and reverse sensors (a must). My wife has a Land Rover Freelander and it handles better but I must say this vehicle is magnificent. Its a big car which looks and seems smaller than it really is and handles well for its size. There is lots of space kit and gadgets for the price and it does nothing wrong. There are SUV that do things better but none that do all as well as the Captiva and thats including the price. it may not bring you the respect of an X5 or Merc but it will make people sit up and look and for a whole lot more, give it a try.

Chevrolet Lacetti 5 Door 2004

Purchased s/hand July 2006 - 9,879 miles. Apart from 2 oil leaks fixed under excellent warranty the car has performed well for the price range. The vehicle has now done 23,000 miles and goes well. It has got a good level of extras too.

Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 S 2007

Well it seems it’s been said before but this car is a good run around, however, get it on the motorway above 60 mph and it gets a little hairy. Brilliant for about town and great on the old purse to run but not something I’d buy if I did a lot of long distance journeys. I don’t so it suits my needs well.

Responses to this review

There is a little flap under the handbrake about 6"x3", lift it up and you will see a plastic plug. Lift off and plug in - Paul from Staffordshire

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 CDi LTX 5dr 2007

A very capable vehicle that really can hold it’s own. I’m very impressed with Chevrolet, this car really does what it says on the tin and is very enjoyable to drive. For the money, it’s a hell of a lot of car.

Chevrolet Lacetti 4 Door Saloon 1.8 CDX 4dr 2007

The Lacetti 1.8 comes with a lot of kit for standard and leather seats and trim also making the interior feel expensive for the price of the car. It’s very comfortable on long journeys and has generous leg room in front and back. Mpg is quite good for a car of its size and servicing costs are reasonable. Performance is good. I have driven better cars but they were more expensive and I think for the money you pay Chevrolet have come up with a good product.

Chevrolet Tacuma 1.6 2007

Practical, economic and spacious, everything I needed. Can’t say more than that.

Chevrolet Lacetti 5 Door 1.8 CDX 2007

This is my company car and its distinctly average. A bit cheap I’m afraid but what do you expect for under £10k? It performs well enough but there are a lot of better cars out there.

Chevrolet Matiz 1.0 S

Amanda’s review is short and sweet and is spot on. This is a very economical run around that is dependable if unexciting. One of the major minus points was the cornering and I never felt as safe as I would have liked when driving, especially jerky around roundabouts. Still, the low CO2 emissions certainly gave me a sense of well-being and as I’ve already said, the running costs were excellent. It is a good run around, that simple really.

Chevrolet Kalos 1.2 S

The Kalos is my company car and although it cruises well once a speed has been reached it struggles with acceleration. The ride is smooth and wind and road noise are minimal. Although this is now a Chevrolet car it must be kept in mind that it is still very much a Daewoo. I would not choose to buy or lease the Kalos when given the choise as it is rather uninspiring and far from luxurious. There are many better models in the marketplace.

Chevrolet Lacetti 5 Door 1.6 LX

Good little family car that offer excellent valur for money and comes with an attractive warranty and service package. It has ample space for a family of five including a decent sized boot and comes with a good level of equipment. If I’m honest the drive isn’t exciting but it gets you from A to B in comfort and it’s so far proved very reliable.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 VCDi LT 5st

I’m really pleased I chose the Captiva after test driving several different 4x4 including Nissan and Citroen. The Captiva offers huge interior space, lots of kit as standard and good looks. The price helps as well - a LOT of car for a little price. There is just one thing I’d change on this and that’s the level of engine noise, but you get used to it pretty quickly. Excellent value for money.

Chevrolet Kalos 1.2 SE 5dr

This car is very cheap to run and insure and has a reasonable amount of space for me and my 2 sons, however, the handling leaves something to be desired at times and there is quite a bit of nasty plastic trim. It’s not a bad car, it’s just not that brilliant either. Average.

Chevrolet Lacetti Station Wagon 1.6 SX 5dr

3 children and 2 dogs calls for something with a LOT of space and the Lacetti fits the bill perfectly. The only negative is it’s not the quietest car I’ve ever driven but noise levels are not excessive and you quickly get used to it. Very good.

Chevrolet Matiz

Good run around.