Vehicle safety data is provided by IIHS, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an independent, nonprofit, scientific, and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries on the nation's highways.
In challenging economic times, it is comforting to know that there are still cars on the market that are affordable, efficient and fun. The 2010 Chevrolet Aveo is the perfect candidate when looking for a blend of fuel and sticker price efficiency.
Available in four-door sedan or five- door hatchback (the redesigned Aveo5) body types, the Aveo has three trims to choose from. Each trim comes with a 108-horsepower, 1.6-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine. All trims are mated to either a four-speed automatic, or five-speed manual transmission with overdrive and front wheel drive. The Chevy Aveo is one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road with 26-27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The 2010 Aveo is also eco-friendly by emitting less than seven metric tons of carbon dioxide. That’s on par with the Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio.
The base LS trim includes front bucket seats and a radio with an MP3 jack. Upgrade to the 1LT trim and a CD-player and air-conditioning also come standard. The top of the model line, the 2LT, includes all of the above and a host of power features, including power windows, door locks and heated mirrors. XM Satellite Radio, fog lamps, cruise control and a remote keyless entry system also come standard in the premium trim. Imitation wood trim, power moonroof and faux leather seating are all optional. Although the Aveo is a tiny four-door subcompact, it is surprisingly spacious. The Aveo is longer, wider and taller than the competition and offers 12.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
The Aveo is one of the few subcompact vehicles with a five star NHTSA safety rating for the driver's side (four stars for the passenger's side). A wealth of safety features is included on this low-cost gem. Each trim comes with front impact airbags for both passenger and driver and an anti-roll bar. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are optional.
With superb fuel economy and paltry carbon emissions, the super-affordable 2010 Chevrolet Aveo is a breath of fresh air in the most literal sense.