Standing-start acceleration is far from brisk: Even with 5-speed manual shift you have to hit the gas hard to keep up with traffic. Acceleration to 60 mph takes close to 15 seconds with automatic, versus 12 to 13 seconds with stick shift. Not only is the automatic transmission sluggish, but it shifts with a jolt at full throttle. It's also slow to downshift for passing. Gas mileage is great. We averaged nearly 34 mpg in city/expressway driving. An Excel maneuvers well enough, is easy to park, and the ride is comfortable for a small car. Soft springing not only makes the ride more compliant, but results in plenty of body lean in turns, plus sloppy cornering. Road noise approaches the excessive, even for a low-end vehicle. Tires howl loudly even at highway speeds, and wind noise can grow intrusive. Interior space is adequate for four, and five can squeeze in. Rear leg room is restricted, and backseats in 3-doors are particularly cramped. Assembly quality appears good, though fit and finish don't rank as first-rate.

Value for the Money
While not the best of the bunch, which includes the more refined Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, Excels offer a lot for a far more modest price. For buyers on a budget, an Excel is worth a look.