Now, that’s performance, says GM about the new Aveo 1.4 and 1.6. Bob Rupani agrees for one, but is less sure about the other

By the time you read this, Rani Mukherji would have wooed you and Saif Ali Khan invited you to take a look at GM’s latest offering in India, the Chevrolet Aveo, by saying “now, that’s performance”. But we wonder if they have even driven it?
We have. Both the 1.4 and the 1.6. Both DOHC, four valvers with VGIS (Variable Geometry Induction System), the engine uses a longer runner length to deliver optimum airflow at low throttle, resulting in better torque, thus better drivability. Once the engine reaches the higher ranges of the rev band, a valve within the intake system opens up to shorten the air intake path, and increases the airflow to the engine.
Turn the ignition key and the 92bhp 1.4 (max torque at 127Nm) fires up instantly and settles into a smooth idle. Let out the clutch and the naturally aspirated engine responds quickly and happily builds up revs. Gear shift is precise but needs a positive shift effort, though slightly notchy, with throws a bit long. It’s certainly not silky smooth and neither is it sporty, but as the engine delivers power in a linear manner and retains torque through most of the rev range, you don’t need to shift that often. In fact drivability is good as is refinement, with hydraulic engine mounts aiding, along with extensive – in some places eight layers of – insulation isolating the passenger compartment. With 14-inch tubeless footwear and McPherson struts/torsion beam front/rear, the ride is adequately firm without being harsh, soaking up undulations. Ruts and broken patches of tarmac don’t either upset the Aveo’s composure.

The three spoke steering feels good to hold but the horn button is in the centre unlike the 1.6’s four-spoker with buttons on the spokes. The rack and pinion power steering with variable assist offers reasonable feedback and is precise even at high speeds.
Braking is one of the most impressive features of the Aveo. It stops in aconfidence-inspiring manner with pedal feel and bite being good. The action is linear and it’s easy to modulate braking and prevent lock-up, even without the aid of the four-channel ABS that is available on the 1.6.
The 1.6 – developing 104bhp and 147Nm – is the same as the one on the Optra, but remapped for the Aveo and mated to a gearbox with different ratios. Despite the hydraulic mounts and extensive insulation this one feels rough and unrefined. It’s also been set up for drivability with a flattish torque curve, and is not really exciting.
Though the setup is the same as in the 1.4, the ride of the 1.6 is somewhat mushy, the handling and steering less sharp and the shifter movement and throws less sporty. But the high-speed stability remains as good and the braking is even more impressive, especially with ABS.
The Aveo feels strong, solid and well built, and the driving dynamics is good. Power-train and drivetrain set-up suggests fuel efficiency, but the first impressions are that the 1.4 is overall better.