2004 was the year that the compact 4 or 5-door sedan Chevrolet Aveo arrived, to give first-time new car buyers a substantial alternative. Chevrolet replaced the sub-compact Chevrolet Metro, which had been phased out in 2001. Chevrolet was happy to offer in the new Aveo, the requisite features that would impress even critics who previously believed that sub-compacts didn't measure up in terms of safety, comfort, and amenities. On no other small car could you opt for a sunroof and anti-lock brakes. Powered by a DOHC 4-cylinder 1.6L engine, Aveo delivered 27 mpg on streets and 37 mpg on the interstates.

People don't want to drive sub-compact cars in today's SUV laden traffic. When an SUV bumper comes up to the driver's chin level in an Aveo, it is a chilling position to be in. Happily, the Chevrolet Aveo has performed well in NHTSA crash tests, for frontal collision and rollover tendency. Owners were generally pleased with what they got for a price slightly below $10,000. The interior of the Aveo is spacious, with comfortable seats, easy to read gauges and practical placement of cup holders and map lights.

How the Aveo handles is consistent with its size. Easy to maneuver through slow turns, the sub-compact causes a few anxious moments coming up to speed on onramps. ABS did its job on stopping the vehicle, and the vehicle was surprisingly quiet in terms of road and engine noise. You will feel more response from the 4-cylineder engine if you opt for the 5-speed manual transmission over the 4-speed automatic. Cargo space is easy to access through the hatchback and the fold-down rear seat allows for longer cargo items.

Holding its own within its segment, the Aveo is a tempting buy considering its shorter time on the market. Competitors to the Chevrolet Aveo by Hyundai and Kia have had a few more turns around the track and have, through experience made upgrades to their suspension, engines, and airbag protection.