GM India is playing this round with a loaded pack — it knows this, and now so do we.

Okay, brand image is crucial, but ultimately, it’s the product that counts. The Optra’s predecessor, the Astra, came with a sky-high image but it was a middling car and ultimately failed. Similarly, whether the Optra is a Chevrolet or a Daewoo won’t matter in the long run, but what it delivers to its customers certainly will.

And does the Optra deliver ! Here is a credible car that can compete with the Corolla and Octavia on even terms. It is comfortable, well-equipped and looks great.

Lethargic performance at low revs, a poor gearshift and a slightly vague steering don’t give it a sporty character, nor does it have the solid, built-to-last feel of the Octavia, but it makes up with refinement and practicality no other car in this class can match.

But the knockout punch, the one that could flatten the competition and at the same time make potential customers stand up and take notice is the price. Expected in July, pegged between Rs 8 to 9 lakh, the Optra is simply outstanding value for money. Just what the Chevrolet brand stands for.