2008 Chevrolet Aveo Review
The Aveo is a compact car that debuted in 2004. Based off the Daewoo Kalos and built in Korea, the Aveo is one of the most affordable vehicles on the market. It was redesigned in 2007, making it larger overall, with more features.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Chevrolet Aveo is a stylish entry-level car. While it won’t wow you with its features, it does have solid reliability and a smooth ride. However, it’s been bested by models like the Nissan Versa. Chevrolet needs to keep up with this increasingly competitive segment by adding more standard features, for example, side-curtain airbags and a better base audio system.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power information is not available. Problems with the first generation Aveo included engine misfires, oil leaks, axle noise, and inaccurate fuel gauges. It was recalled in 2004 for twisting seat belts. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
In government crash tests, the Aveo earned 4.5 stars in frontal tests and 3.5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Acceptable” for the front, “Marginal” for the side, and “Poor” for the rear. Side airbags come standard, anti-lock brakes are optional on the LS and LT.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Inexpensive
+ Reliable
+ Smooth ride
Cons
- Limited safety options
- No CD player in the base model
- Mediocre performance at best
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Hyundai Accent includes a standard CD player, but costs nearly $800 more. The Toyota Yaris costs about the same as the Aveo, but lacks side airbags. The Nissan Versa, at about the same price, offers a standard CD player and six-speed transmission.
What Others Are Saying:
“A rubber-isolated front cross member takes the edge off potholes and expansion joints. Steering response is quick and friction-free; the dampers don’t play dead when a frisky driver is at the wheel. Still, the Aveo won’t be confused with a Mini Cooper. Its shift lever is long enough for school-bus duty, and its throttle hangs open during every gearchange.” – Automobile Magazine
“When Chrysler enters the fray with a rebadged Chery and Ford finally realizes they actually need a marketable small car to survive, the competition will heat up even more. GM needs to move quickly to improve the Aveo and bring it up to world-class standards. Otherwise they’ll have to send yet another captive import back home in shame.” – The Truth About Cars
“Realistically, this car is not meant to star in the next Tokyo Drift movie. But, it will happily take you and three of your pals to the movie theater … a fourth bud can come along if he/she is kind of small, hip-wise…The system is unremarkable in its capabilities and performance.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Aveo at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.
