Built by GM's Korean subsidiary, Daewoo, the Wave is a clone of the Chevrolet Aveo. For 2007, the sedan (but not the hatchback, described elsewhere) gets a comprehensive cosmetic makeover, inside and out. The new body shape expands trunk volume to a respectable 11.7 cu-ft.

Inside, the instrument panel is decorated with smooth, shiny metallic steering-wheel inserts and matching metallic rings around the cluster dials. Plus, red dial needles provide the Pontiac look. The driver gets a folding armrest and the cabin is enlivened by silver-painted trim accents.

Wave comes in base or SE trim levels. Available options that go beyond class norms include a power glass sunroof, 6-disc in-dash CD changer, and for 2007, a Wi (huh?) Special Edition package. Wi includes 15-inch aluminum wheels, trunk spoiler, and 6-speaker premium audio with steering wheel mounted controls.

You still have to pay extra for front-seat side airbags, and side-curtain airbags (standard on some rivals) are not available at all. To its credit, GM still offers ABS as an option, even though historically fewer than one percent of Wave buyers choose it! Shame on them.

Wave's 1.6-litre, 103-hp engine is less than state-of-the-art, with disappointing fuel economy by subcompact standards, though these are decent highway cruisers. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, 4-speed automatic optional.

Affordable, roomy for its size, lots of options

Engine outdated in performance, fuel economy and refinement