2000 Daewoo Lanos: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Lanos is the smallest of three cars from Daewoo, a South Korean automaker that entered the U.S. market in 1998. For 2000, all Lanos models get additional standard equipment but have base prices no higher than their 1999 counterparts.
This front-wheel-drive subcompact comes as a 2-door hatchback in base S and SE trim, and as a 4-door sedan in S and top-line SX trim. An SX hatchback and SE sedan are dropped for 2000. The only engine is a twincam 4-cylinder with manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Traction control is not offered, but antilock brakes are optional on SE and SX models.
For 2000, S models gain a standard height-adjustable driver's seat, center console, and remote fuel door/decklid release. SEs gain a rear spoiler, but no longer share with the SX a standard remote keyless entry theft-deterrent system. Daewoo's warranty includes roadside assistance and scheduled maintenance for 3 years/36,000 miles.

COMPETITION

This crowded segment is best represented by two exceptional cars--one a Best Buy and the other a Recommended. Our Best Buy is the Honda Civic, which offers a wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment levels. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and is very civilized.
Topping the Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys as they are better than the Civic in many ways. However, they are also the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Chevrolet Cavalier and Dodge Neon, the slightly-upscale Chevy Prizm and clone Toyota Corolla, and the roomy Mazda Protege.
If you are looking for a Budget Buy we recommend you stay away from the Hyundai or Daewoo models and take a look at the Ford Escort.