LAIAS: 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5

[Flybrian]

GM @ LAIAS
2009 Chevrolet Aveo5

2009 CHEVROLET AVEO5 AT A GLANCE:
* Redesigned, sporty exterior with contemporary details
* Updated, roomy "tall car" interior with the cargo flexibility of a hatchback - including up to 42 cu.-ft. (1,189 L) of cargo space
* New, fuel-efficient Ecotec 1.6L DOHC engine with variable valve timing
* Great EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 26 city / 34 highway (manual transmission)
* Standard side air bags and dual-stage frontal air bags with Passenger Sensing System
* Unexpected technologies, including standard OnStar and available XM Satellite Radio
* Five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty

NEW 2009 CHEVROLET AVEO5 IS A SMALL CAR WITH LARGE-CAR ROOMINESS, AMENITIES AND GREAT FUEL ECONOMY

LOS ANGELES - Proving that fuel solutions can be wrapped in bold, fun packages, Chevrolet unveiled the 2009 Aveo5 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The redesigned challenger to the economy segment delivers exceptional, EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway (with the standard five-speed manual transmission) - and is expected to be the lowest-priced car in America when it goes on sale in 2008.

"Chevrolet is committed to fuel solutions of all types, and the new Aveo5 demonstrates that gasoline remains viable in a highly efficient, affordable package," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "It is a terrific value, with a worry-free ownership experience that has the lowest ownership cost of any vehicle on the market, yet it packs all of Chevy's fun-to-drive spirit."

The new '09 Aveo5 reaffirms the brand's value position and builds on it with features expected in larger, more expensive cars - such as standard OnStar and available XM Satellite Radio - as well as its signature "tall car" design that enables surprising passenger and cargo room. It is powered by a new, fuel-sipping, 1.6L DOHC engine with variable valve timing that produces more power (107 hp / 80 kW) and strong torque (106-lb.-ft. / 143 Nm) - and has been tuned for quieter performance.

"Customers will be surprised by the 'big' features of the Aveo5 - big room, big style, big refinement and, of course, big fuel economy," said Peper. "It is a flexible car that provides untold capabilities, with cargo features and flexibility that change as your needs change."

Indeed, the Aveo5's efficiency and flexibility go hand in hand. With its improved fuel economy among the best on the market using regular gasoline, the '09 Aveo5 can travel more than 400 miles (643 km) between fill-ups, resulting in fewer trips to the gas station and road trips that require fewer stops.

The Aveo5 goes on sale in mid-2008, joining the recently redesigned Aveo sedan. It is available in base, LS and LT trims - each backed by a "worry free" five-year/100,000-mile transferable powertrain warranty, plus Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation.

Bold, tall-car design

The Aveo5's dynamic, contemporary styling represents the global face of Chevrolet design. Redesigned, body-color fascias and chrome accents suggest a more expensive car, along with available features - such as its large power sunroof - that are unexpected in the segment, Aveo5 retains its characteristic "tall car" configuration, enabling a spacious interior, with generous headroom that is greater than many midsize sedans.

The front of the new Aveo5 features the bold, chrome-finished grille - with prominent gold Chevy bowtie - that is characteristic of all new members of the Chevrolet family, such as the Malibu. It is complemented with features that reinforce Aveo5's premium appearance, including new and distinctive chrome-finished side vents on the front fenders and jeweled-appearance headlamps.

The Aveo5's sleek styling accents longer, wider and taller dimensions, with sculpted lines and a wide, confident stance. Pronounced "shoulders" over the wheel openings and body-color door sills convey the look of a larger car. A more assertive, dynamic look is accomplished with crisp, V-shaped hood edges, bold front and rear fascias with premium cues, such as larger, available front fog lamps; a rear-fascia lower grille; and a larger available rear spoiler located on the trailing edge of the roof.

Ten exterior colors are available. They include: Summit White, Black Granite Metallic, Sport Red, Victory Red, Blue Moon, Bright Blue, Tahiti Green, Cosmic Silver, Medium Gray and Summer Yellow.

Roomy environment

The Aveo5's exterior is complemented by a quiet passenger cabin that features well-crafted details and generous standard features that enhance comfort. It is one of the most spacious vehicles in its class, with features and refinement comparable to more expensive vehicles.

With its signature "tall car" design, the Aveo5's generous dimensions easily accommodate 6-foot-tall passengers in each of the five seating positions. It also is a quiet interior environment, with soundproofing technologies that complement quieting powertrain enhancements and improved aerodynamics to provide a quiet, comfortable and vibration-free ride, even at higher speed.

Attention to comfort is evidenced in elements such as standard driver's seat armrests. Also, theater-style rear seating provides a commanding view for all passengers. A 60/40-split rear seat expands Aveo5's interior cargo capacity; and when more cargo-carrying capability is required, the rear seat can be flipped and folded, offering 42 cu. ft. (1,189 L) of cargo space.

Refined, well-appointed interior

The interior's contemporary appearance is achieved through sleek lines and the clever use of rich materials, including a new, available two-tone, charcoal/light gray design (on charcoal interiors) that provides a premium look and feel. Other premium appearance elements include technical-grain, low-gloss surfaces; wood grain, satin-chrome or carbon-fiber finishes on the instrument panel and door panels; and even perforated faux leather seating surfaces, steering wheel cover and shifter knob.

Additionally, clever details abound, such as a sunglasses holder; door pockets for books and maps; and hooks that can secure shopping bags. Unexpected value is delivered through more standard and available features - features not typically found in the segment, including:

• Fully reclining front seats with convenience hooks
• Six-way-adjustable seats - plus driver lumbar adjustment
• Tilting steering wheel
• Driver information center
• Oil Life Monitoring System
• Cruise control
• Power windows and locks
• Heated, dual power body-color foldaway outside mirrors
• On-key (no separate fob) remote keyless entry
• Air conditioning with cabin filtration
• Large, power-operated sunroof

Audio systems

Aveo5 LS models offer a standard AM/FM, four-speaker radio system, 36 presets and an auxiliary input jack for MP3 devices. An AM/FM radio with CD/MP3 capability (including an auxiliary input jack) and six-speaker sound system is standard on the LT and available on LS.

All Aveo5 radios are derived from GM's new family of premium radio systems, which are distinguished by upscale appearance, simplicity of operation and range of features and capabilities. Steering wheel audio controls are standard on LT models

XM Satellite Radio - a popular choice among youthful customers - is standard on 1LT models and available on LS. It offers more than 100 channels of music, news, sports and entertainment. XM Satellite Radio must be activated and a subscription fee applies.

Ride and handling

The Aveo5 was developed for a dynamic, well-planted driving experience and fuel efficiency. It has a wide stance and long wheelbase (97.7 inches / 2,480 mm) to deliver a smooth, confident ride. A MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension (with gas-charged shocks) deliver refined ride and handling characteristics.

Power-assisted, variable-rate rack-and-pinion steering is standard, with the steering gear is mounted on the front suspension cross member for precise action and stability. Fourteen-inch wheels are standard, but sporty 15-inch alloy wheels are available.

As a global car, the Aveo5 was tested and validated for a broad range of driving and road conditions. The suspension system is inspired by the driving experiences of European sports sedans yet tuned for contemporary American driving tastes - a combination that delivers both smoothness and a responsive, spirited driving experience.

Powertrains

Supporting Aveo5's responsive and economical driving experience is a new, Ecotec 1.6L DOHC four-cylinder powertrain. The sophisticated engine uses Dual Continuous Variable Cam Phasing - two continuously adjustable camshafts - to optimize the charge cycle for fuel economy and performance. As a result, this 16-valve DOHC engine delivers more horsepower than the previous engine, with ratings of 107 horsepower (80 kw)* and 106 lb.-ft. of torque (143 Nm)*, and nearly 8-percent improved fuel efficiency when compared to the previous Aveo5 model.

The new, 1.6L engine features additional technology highlights to improve fuel economy, quality, reliability and durability, including:

• New four-in-one sheet metal exhaust manifold, with integrated catalytic converter and secondary underfloor catalytic converter
• Engine oil cooler and piston oil squirters
• New GM-corporate engine control system
• Electronically controlled thermostat
• Oil Life Monitoring System

Additionally, the engine is tuned for quieter performance, with a more pleasing sound during acceleration.

A smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission is standard and an Aisin four-speed automatic with Hold Control Mode is available. Hold Control Mode is a special feature that helps reduce wheel spin and traction loss on slick roads by allowing the driver to select and hold a higher gear, thus reducing torque.

Safety features

A comprehensive system of safety and security technologies is designed to meet safety standards of markets around the globe. The Aveo5's safety starts with a high-strength steel structure that creates a safety cage around the passenger compartment. The structure features strength-enhancing, tailor-welded blanks that help avoid protrusions into the passenger compartment.

The Aveo5 also comes standard with advanced dual-stage frontal air bags and the GM Passenger Sensing System, as well as standard head/thorax seat-mounted side air bags for front passengers. The head/thorax seat-mounted side air bags deploy during side impacts and are triggered by a sophisticated sensor system in the front doors.

The brake system on the Aveo5 is available with a four-channel ABS system. The four-sensor system - one at each wheel - incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on road conditions the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Additional Aveo5 safety features include:

• Front safety belt pretensioners
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Knee bolsters
• Height-adjustable shoulder belt anchors
• Lower Anchors and Top Tether for Children (LATCH) for rear seats
• Rear child safety door locks
• Tire pressure monitoring system

All Aveo5 models come standard with OnStar Gen 7, which features advanced automatic crash notification, remote diagnostics and a monthly status report. OnStar provides the responsiveness of a trained operator to assist you at the touch of a button. From security features of operator directions, remote diagnostics, lockout service, roadside assistance to emergency response, OnStar offers the assistance you need when you need it. Aveo5 (and Aveo sedan) is the only car in its class with this safety and convenience feature.

Photo Gallery

[FUTURE_OF_GM]

Umm... I kinda like it... In a weird way. The bar through the grille seems like a bit of an after thought. Part of me wants to lower it, black out the windows and lights and put bigger wheels on it so it'll look REALLY mean, lol.

Anyway, it'll probably sell regardless. I mean, after all the Yaris is selling and it's 2 times as ugly as this thing.

[Drew Dowdell]

*sigh* I hate you Audi for starting this gaping mouth trend in grills.

[Intrepidation]

Looking at it again, it looks ok I guess, but at the same time it's not even a full reskin. I like the new Fit better.

Edited November 14, 2007 by Dodgefan

[Drew Dowdell]

It even has pontiac version headlights built right in.

[Casket Demon]

Its a rollerskate.

[RJB]

Why does this car not get better gas mileage? I don't get it, the other cars in this segment get more mpg than the Aveo.

[Derek77]

Why does this car not get better gas mileage? I don't get it, the other cars in this segment get more mpg than the Aveo.

The Aveo is right on par with the others in its class. Only the Yaris gets more in the city and hwy.

[Eric77TA]

There was definite room for griping with the previous Aveo ratings of 23/33 for a car this size, but like Derek said, 26/34 is far more competitive. That would have probably been closer to 30/37 under the old ratings.

[pow]

Why does this car not get better gas mileage? I don't get it, the other cars in this segment get more mpg than the Aveo.

All models with manual transmission...

Yaris - 29/36

Fit - 28/34

Aveo5 - 26/34

Accent/Rio - 27/32

It should be interesting how the automatic version fares.

[loki]

much more distinctive than the competition...the interior looks on par, if not nicer than some looks into a yaris/fit/versa I've seen first hand.

why didn't they have time to make the engine DI? other than it is a "daewoo" engine...right?

[ocnblu]

I don't want to have too much of a Fit over this, but YARIS, look at the front overhang in the full profile shot! Still, it's a Versa-tile little car, I just wish a 3 door were available.

[Diehard GrandPrix Fan]

I am sure Audi will be pretty happy with Cheverolet/Daewoo stealing their grill design(it IS still based on Kalos right? or am I wrong?). I was never a fan of Aveo to begin with, but I must say this looks a bit better than the previous versions. Well, I am more into the big American muscle, pretty much only for Pontiac and some dodge, even though I am a Korean American. Only Korean car I like is the Proto Spirra. But this chevy I think, have some potential.

[frogger]

Meh for something that came out in 2004 it seems like a small refresh, one that could be easily surpassed by the competition shortly after its released.

[Windy-57]

This is ugly. I hope the next gen is better.

[thegriffon]

much more distinctive than the competition...the interior looks on par, if not nicer than some looks into a yaris/fit/versa I've seen first hand.

why didn't they have time to make the engine DI? other than it is a "daewoo" engine...right?

Umm, no. I would say it is a version of GM Powertrain Europe's new 1.6 L Dual-CVVT Family 1 engine. This version is tuned for economy, rather than power, it will be interesting to see what the ratings are for other markets (already higher with the old Daewoo Family 1 engine, which was also a Daewoo version of a GM engine). The 1.6 Dual-CVVT in the Astra gets 113 hp and more torque to boot.

Specs list mileage as 27/34 (man) and 24/34 (auto).

[daves87rs]

Doesn't look that bad after looking at it for a while....

I have to see it in person.

It's will be different, that's for sure.

[Diehard GrandPrix Fan]

I don't think Daewoo have made its own engine as far as I know. I think they've been using GMs engine all through this time since they have always been owned partially by GM from the day 1 of the company's birth in my knowledge(although I may be wrong). Of course, they been using the design of Europe's Opel Rekord and some other models, modified it, and sold the cars under the model name Royale series in Korea in the 80's. The Koreans are just starting to design and make their own engine just recently. Hyundai and its child company Kia is using the engines that were made my Hyundai these days which are like the only companies that are using their own engine designed in home. It's not until the late 90's(I think) that Hyundai made it's own engines. Until then, Hyundai's used the licensed Mitsubishi engine, and Kia's used the licensed Mazda engines, since by then, Kia was owned partially by Mazda. Now defunct Ssangyong(which was purchased by Chinese company) was using licensed Mercedes Benz engine, and Samsung is using the Renault engine, Proto Motors, which is the newest company in Korea speciallizing low volume sports cars are using Ford's V8. I am not so sure about Daewoo's, but I don't think it's the Daewoo made engine. I am pretty sure it's by GM.

Although I may be wrong.

[siegen]

Ugh. It looks like a mish-mash of different design elements that don't go well together, specially on a vehicle this size. The only good view is from the rear.

[CSpec]

Wow, the new front end and existing body do not mix well at all. Guess we'll have to wait until the Gamma Aveo for a real entry here by GM.

[K.C.]

Meh, it's alright I guess. I don't think I could get in one, so much as I would put it on. I kinda like the funky style though.

[rueben44]

*sigh* I hate you Audi for starting this gaping mouth trend in grills.

Actually Audi did not start it that is how cars were designed for the most part for most of the early 20th century. Now I like it because

it is bold and different with a nice quality interior at a cheap price.

[loki]

The new '09 Aveo5 reaffirms the brand's value position and builds on it with features expected in larger, more expensive cars - such as standard OnStar and available XM Satellite Radio - as well as its signature "tall car" design that enables surprising passenger and cargo room. It is powered by a new, fuel-sipping, 1.6L DOHC engine with variable valve timing that produces more power (107 hp / 80 kW) and strong torque (106-lb.-ft. / 143 Nm) - and has been tuned for quieter performance.

noted: the HP is +4 and the torque is -1 ...that's kinda sad, assuming the same peak rpms.

edit- says the engine was fitted with oil squirters... that should've brought the compression up a little.

this is just pre-spec griping.

Edited November 15, 2007 by loki

[Z-06]

Ugh. It looks like a mish-mash of different design elements that don't go well together, specially on a vehicle this size. The only good view is from the rear.

This looks better after seeing the Sequoia.

Wow, the new front end and existing body do not mix well at all. Guess we'll have to wait until the Gamma Aveo for a real entry here by GM.

When is the Gamma Aveo Scheduled for?

[thegriffon]

I don't think Daewoo have [designed] its own engine as far as I know. I think they've been using GM's engine all through this time since they have always been owned partially by GM from the day 1 of the company's birth in my knowledge(although I may be wrong). Of course, they been using the design of Europe's Opel Rekord and some other models, modified it, and sold the cars under the model name Royale series in Korea in the 80's. The Koreans are just starting to design and make their own engine just recently. Hyundai and its child company Kia is using the engines that were made my Hyundai these days which are like the only companies that are using their own engine designed in home. It's not until the late 90's(I think) that Hyundai made it's own engines. Until then, Hyundai's used the licensed Mitsubishi engine, and Kia's used the licensed Mazda engines, since by then, Kia was owned partially by Mazda. Now defunct Ssangyong(which was purchased by Chinese company) was using licensed Mercedes Benz engine, and Samsung is using the Renault engine, Proto Motors, which is the newest company in Korea speciallizing low volume sports cars are using Ford's V8. I am not so sure about Daewoo's, but I don't think it's the Daewoo made engine. I am pretty sure it's by GM.

Although I may be wrong.

They've also built updated versions of Suzuki's old F-series engines (widely built in China as well, including by GM JV partner Wuling Motors), as the S(Suzuki)-Tec II. Daewoo's Family 1 engines are of course the E-Tec II engines (E for Ecotec?), dubbed A-series. Beside the F-series and A-series engines Daewoo uses engines supplied directly by GM Holden (Family II) and GM Powertrain Europe (1.8 L Family 1); and its own engines based on the Suzuki block, dubbed B-series. The original SOHC B10 is pretty much the same as Suzuki's F10C, but the new DOHC B12 (also built by SGMW) is all-new, and will soon be joined by a new DOHC B10. The XK-series straight sixes are also pre-Daewoo, designed when Aston-boss and former Porsche engineer Ulrich Bez was running Daewoo's R&D.

[RBB]

You know, when the Aveo hatch first came out, I thought it was a smartly styled little car. Its only weak point, IMO was the puppydogs-and-lollipops-cute smiling front end - I thought it could be a bit more aggressive, and didn't think it fit the rest of the car.

With this restyle, the front end has gone to I-will-devour-your-soul-for-the-sake-of-fuel-economy agressiveness. It's gone way over the top on the aggressive side, and is less integrated with the rest of the car than the last nose was.

No sir, I don't like it.

-RBB

[Derek77]

One thing that I'm confussed about, with all the talk of making it quieter inside, why are they still using traditional windshield wiper blades? Couldn't they spring for some of the newer bow type that come on a lot of new GM products?

And why did they get rid of the electric throttle control?

[thegriffon]

noted: the HP is +4 and the torque is -1 ...that's kinda sad, assuming the same peak rpms.

edit- says the engine was fitted with oil squirters... that should've brought the compression up a little.

this is just pre-spec griping.

It did, quite a bit.

[Brougham-Holiday]

It looks like the same doors as on the current Aveo, 34mpg isnt anything great.

[ToniCipriani]

Top row second picture clearly shows that the car's proportion is completely out of whack. They just crafted a huge frontend on, swapped the tail lamp units and called it a day.

Come on, Daewoo, you can do better than this. The sedan was a much better effort.

[thegriffon]

No, but you won't get better unless you downsize to the Yaris.

[Micah Pie]

I seriously like it. Looks exactly on track what a new chevy should look like with the new Grillle/face design going on. When it comes around and I still need a vehicle, I'd consider it. Bigtime.

[BuddyP]

I'm still amazed that this thing only gets 34 hwy??

Wifey's '00 Alero 2.4 automatic get's 30-32 consistantly.... 29mpg on a bad week.

[Derek77]

I'm still amazed that this thing only gets 34 hwy??

Wifey's '00 Alero 2.4 automatic get's 30-32 consistantly.... 29mpg on a bad week.

If that's the case, why do you think the Aveo will be any different? Your wife's Alero can get better than EPA estimates, but the Aveo can't?

[prinzSD]

Actually Audi did not start it that is how cars were designed for the most part for most of the early 20th century. Now I like it because

it is bold and different with a nice quality interior at a cheap price.

And the restyled front end keeps it pertinent to the market. Too bad it is not out now, so I can replaced our toalled Corolla that some dumbsh*t rear ended last week.

[ToniCipriani]

No, but you won't get better unless you downsize to the Yaris.

What I mean is the front doesn't look as chunky. Here's the current one:

Well I guess it is a like or hate it thing... much like the final gen N-Body Skylarks...

Edited November 16, 2007 by ToniCipriani

[Ravenfreak13]

It's ok. Has some nice features though.

[ocnblu]

Doesn't look bad in these Autoblog gallery photos from the show stand. It even has a junior version of the new Corvette/Impala LTZ/Cobalt Turbo split-spoke rims:

aquaboy!

Edited November 18, 2007 by ocnblu

[Mike The Canadian]

I think my eyes are bleeding

[Diehard GrandPrix Fan]

To be honest, and I know I may be the only one. I prefer the current one, or even better, I prefer the original Daewoo Kalos which is the car it is based on(though they aren't much different, I like the headlight area and the grill of the Korean version here more).

[Robert Hall]

All models with manual transmission...

Yaris - 29/36

Fit - 28/34

Aveo5 - 26/34

Accent/Rio - 27/32

It should be interesting how the automatic version fares.

Those numbers are pretty weak for all of them...they really should offer these B-segment subcompacts with diesels...then they would get really good mileage.

[thegriffon]

What I mean is the front doesn't look as chunky.

What I meant was the mpg. You beat me to replying.

[thegriffon]

Those numbers are pretty weak for all of them...they really should offer these B-segment subcompacts with diesels...then they would get really good mileage.

In your market, too expensive. The Yaris, Accent and Rio are all offered with a small diesel, and of course all European A- and B-segment models (including the Corsa) have at least one if not two or three diesel options. But of course, you pay a lot more for them. There should be a 1.5 L diesel for the Aveo, but perhaps they can't keep up with demand for the 2.0 L engine.

[mustang84]

For comparison's sake:

[Diehard GrandPrix Fan]

I don't like small cars, nor any of the Japanese, but if I have to choose the best looking style from those four, I will have to go with the Honda Fit. To me, Fit's styling stands out from those 4. I don't know why.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Shrink the grill and I can live with the exterior design. Real-life photos (read: NON-GM PHOTOGRAPHY) may make it look world's better, but still. I can understand an actual good, flavored, throughly cooked design is needed in the sub-compact segment, but this is just way too overdone.

Here's to hoping the next Aveo is better.

[Cory Wolfe]

The Honda Fit is really the only decent subcompact and the only one worth buying. Otherwise, they all suck, Aveo included.

Edited November 19, 2007 by blackviper8891

[ocnblu]

And the photos posted here a while back of the next-gen Fit further cement the car's status as nicest-in-class, imo.

[87Chevette]

This Car is Goofy! That front grille is really bad!

It looks like they took the Malibu Grille and squeezed it together so it would fit this car.

Why didnt they just shrink it to an appropriate size on both angles, TOP AND BOTTOM?!!?!?!?!

Ridiculous exterior:helluvagood interior.

[CARBIZ]

Frankly, I was hoping for more than a freshened face. Just like the old Tracker days....GM was first out of the gate (with the help of Suzuki, of course), but then dropped the ball and handed the entire CUV market to Honda and Toyota by letting the Tracker hang around too long.

The Aveo was a decent car in 2003, but by letting it languish (although the interior refit on the sedan last year was pretty good, IMO), other competitors, notably the Versa, have passed it.

You Americans sneer at this car, but in the Toronto area (and I suspect Montreal, too) this is an important market. We don't sell Tahoes, we sell Aveos and (did) Optras.

At $4.16 a gallon (US gallon, that is), the Aveo is too important to become second rate. Fix the engine and fix the transmission.