Just as an exercise, even if you’re not in the market to buy the all-new Chevrolet Lacetti, pop along to the dealer and just have a look at one.
Walk around it and then decide whether, like me, you think the designer has licked his pencil, grabbed a piece of paper, looked at so many other vehicles and comes up with a design.
From the front I can see bits of Ford Focus, from the rear quarters I can see the old Rover 200 and I even, because I am old enough, think that a certain section looks like a 1970s Allegro.
It really does look a pleasant, not radical design that has incorporated the lines and best bits of several other cars into Chavrolet’s Lacetti model.
Like all vehicles from the Chevrolet stable they offer extremely good value for money, they have a degree of comfort, they also have a high degree of safety features incorporated.
Introduce high specifications and the value for money aspect in a compact, elegant and stylish design really does start to make sense, and with prices starting at £9,795 a Lacetti is a refreshing alternative in this compact sector.
There are three four-cylinder petrol engines to choose from. If economy minded then the 1.4 litre engine, which is available on the hatchback version, should be the choice for you.
With 95 bhp available it should be adequate for the vehicle. A 1.6 litre delivering 109 bhp and a sportier 1.8 litre, which provides 120 bhp, are the power options available.
An automatic transmission is available on the 1.6 litre SX hatch and also the 1.8 CDX saloon. The other configurations are equipped with a five-speed gearbox.
Performance characteristics - the 1.4 litre should be able to achieve 109 mph and have a 0-60 of just under 12 seconds. The combined fuel figure is quoted at 39.2 mpg.
Surprisingly, the larger engined 1.6 litre is virtually the same on the combined fuel figure - its top speed leaps to 116 mph and we knock a second off the 0-60 times.
The 1.8 litre version now has a top speed of 121 mph. The 0-60 drops another second and the combined fuel is 38.1 mpg.
Whichever model you choose, there is quite a comprehensive level of specification and the value for money factor is always uppermost in your mind.
Even the entry level model has power assisted steering, anti-lock brakes, a central door locking and a Thatcham immobilising system.
In addition, the driver and passenger front airbags are standard as are the electrically operated front windows and automatic dipping rear view mirror. On a standard level specification vehicle this is a surprise.
The front seatbelts also have a height adjustable which means you can get comfortable which is not always an option on a lot of cars, and it is nice to see three-point safety belts are fitted on all vehicles for all passengers.
From a driving perspective the Lacetti really didn’t have any vices, OK it didn’t get you particularly inspired or excited about its driving dynamics but it did exactly what it was supposed to do.
You put the key in, start the engine, get comfortable and do your journey with no effort whatsoever and when you add up value for money and what you pay, you’re getting an awful lot of car for your money.
The Lacetti range starts at £9,795 for the 1.4 litre SE, and top out at £12,395 for the 1.8 litre CDX four-door.
All Chevrolets come with the benefit of a three-year customer care package. This provides a no hassle experience throughout the ownership cycle.
It applies to all models in the range and includes warranty cover for three years, free AA Roadside Recovery for three years and a three-year 30,000 mile servicing package for just £145 - this has to be an option worth considering.
By Bob Hickman.
One Comment
So. A “pleasant” looking car has elements of a Focus, a Rover 200, and an Allegro.
Thank you.
Can I assume, therefore, that Mr. Hickman’s idea of a pleasant looking building is a combination of 60’s tower block, the Pompidou Building, and a wheelie bin?
Sorry, but in terms of aesthetic appeal Korean cars (Hyundai Coupe excepted) are currently the best cure for insomnia I know of.