The Aveo is built by the former Daewoo company (which GM now owns) and is designed to compete against its fellow subcompact Koreans, the Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio.

For 2007, the sedan gets a comprehensive cosmetic makeover, inside and out. The new and larger body shape is more aerodynamic, and also expands trunk volume to a respectable 11.7 cu-ft.

As well, a wider track, re-tuned suspension and steering, and chubby 185/55R15 tires on the uplevel LT, promise to deliver European levels of ride and handling.

Standard features include A/C with cabin filtration, an AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 playback capability and an auxiliary audio input jack, floor mats, and a driver's seat with fold-down armrest and manual height and lumbar adjusters.

Options that go beyond class norms include a power sunroof, 6-disc, in-dash CD changer, 6-speaker premium sound system, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, cruise control, and fog lamps.

GM still offers ABS as an option, even though, historically, less than one percent of buyers choose it! Astonishing.

Aveo's aiding weakness remains its 1.6-litre, 103-hp engine, which is less than state-of-the-art, with sub-par power and disappointing fuel economy by subcompact standards, though these are decent highway cruisers.

Affordable, roomy for its size, lots of options

Engine outdated in performance, fuel economy