GM’s Aveo RS: Not just an econobox anymore?

At this year’s Detroit Auto Show, GM took the wraps off of its Aveo RS, its first entry into the burgeoning Premium Small Car market.  The Mini Cooper, built by BMW, started the market, also known as the “C Segment” cars, but nowhere near the traditional C Segment cars of late.  With the Ford Fiesta, Mazda Mazda2, and a host of others, Chevrolet is tossing its hat into the ring with a redesigned Aveo.  The first model, the RS, is a performance-oriented version of the Aveo, but still keeps part of its focus on fuel economy, and the rest on premium features and materials.

In addition to increasing its size and amenities, GM is following the current trend by adding personalization options to the new Aveo.  Details are light concerning the personalization options, but we do know about the power level is this: the Aveo RS uses the same engine as the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze, a 1.4-liter EcoTec 4-cylinder comparable to the power in the 2006-up Honda Civic.

With 19″ wheels and an aggressive look, it looks like it will be popular with younger buyers, with an overall look reminiscent of the Honda Fit and Volkswagen Jetta, but better, in my opinion.  With shorter side glass and more sculpted sides, the Aveo RS presents a handsome package.

It will be interesting to see how the Aveo RS sells, once it’s brought to market later this year.  If the interior quality of the show car is carried over to production units and the design isn’t changed from what you see in the pictures here, then GM might have a good chance of selling a lot of them.

by John Suit

Source: Chevrolet