Not all cars have that glamorous appeal. The Chevy Aveo isn’t a “show stopper”, but this sedan is shapely in all the ways that matter for a buyer interested in reliable transportation. Built in South Korea, the Aveo is a subcompact competitor that aims to please. For 2007, the car has a new exterior look. And it’s wider, taller, and longer than the predecessor. The engine power from a 1.6-liter, 103 horsepower, 4-cylinder isn’t overwhelming, but it’s strong enough. There’s also less wind drag on the sedan as the coefficient of drag is 0.326 (versus the previous 0.348), achieved in part because the antenna is now incorporated with the rear glass.

Aveo is a good long-hauler because there is ample room for adults (even in the 60/40 split-fold rear seat). A fully reclining front passenger seat is an extra nice feature. Other staple appointments on the up-level Aveo LT include 15-inch aluminum wheels, power heated outside fold-away mirrors, visors with vanity mirrors, driver seat armrest, rear window defogger, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, cruise control, and air conditioning with air filtration system. Aveo with 4-speed Aisin automatic transmission (an $850 option) has estimated mpg of 26 city/34 highway. The MSRP for the Aveo LT is $13,450.