2009 Chevrolet Aveo: Road Test
2009 Chevrolet Aveo ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $11,965 - $14,100
- Invoice: $11,427 - $13,466
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Chevrolet Aveo
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo help you decide if a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3.2 |
Aveo accelerates off the line quicker than one would expect, but no one will mistake these subcompacts for a sports car. Manual-transmission versions feel slightly quicker than automatics, but a rubbery, imprecise manual shifter detracts from the driving experience. The automatic is relatively responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Aveo sedans with the automatic transmission averaged 24.5-28.4 mpg. Aveo5 hatchbacks with the automatic averaged 28.3-28.7 mpg. All figures are unimpressive for the class. Aveo uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Aveo's solid body structure imparts an absorbent ride. Only large, sharp bumps trigger pounding through the suspension. Both body styles have a bit of bounding and bouncing over bumps, but are no worse than other cars in this class.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Nimble enough due to its petite size and responsive steering, though some testers say steering effort is a bit heavy at low speeds. Aveo's body leans more in turns than class rivals. The brakes provide decent stopping control but are nothing special in terms of pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
The engine sounds coarse and buzzy during acceleration on all models. Wind and road noise can be intrusive, more so with the hatchback than the sedan.
CONTROLS
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The gauges are easy to read. The audio and climate controls are clearly marked, simple to operate, and mounted high for easy access.
DETAILS
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
Among the more pleasant subcompact cars. There is plenty of hard plastic, but its texturing lends substance. Aveo5 models are more upscale than the sedans, with nice two-tone surfaces to go along with woodgrain and satin-finish trim.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Good headroom despite a somewhat tall seating position, though sitting high up makes for excellent visibility. Taller passengers will wish for more legroom, though. The seats are comfortable and supportive.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.4 |
Surprisingly roomy for a subcompact, though not great by absolute standards. Headroom is very good in the hatchback but just OK in the sedan. Ease of entry and exit rivals that of some larger cars.
CARGO ROOM
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Neither body style offers much cargo room with the rear seats up. Split-folding rear seatbacks help increase space. In-cabin storage is sparse, with a meager glovebox and a few small bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 6.9 |
No Aveo is a quiet vehicle, and our measured fuel economy is unexceptional by class standards. These subcompacts also lack important safety features such as traction control and curtain side airbags. On the plus side, Aveo has a comfortable ride, decent road manners, and an inviting interior. Overall, this is a likable subcompact that compares well with other budget-minded rivals.
Total Score
| LS sedan, manual | LS sedan, automatic | Aveo5 w/2LT pkg, manual | Aveo5 LT, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 52 | 57 | 56 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Subcompact Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
