Chevrolet Matiz 2005-2009
You might recognise this as previously sporting D-for-daewoo badges but with added dullness to the styling. Usually ‘Chevrolet’ is found on something exciting, like a Corvette. Some say the Matiz is better built than the plastic sports car, but instead of a V8, there’s a 1.0-litre four-pot, which means it can cope if it strays out of town and deliver around 50mpg.
The are three major trim levels to choose from, and the top SX delivers air-con. Mid-range SE really brings only electric windows and seat-height adjustment and the most basic S has the essential safety kit and a CD player for entertainment.
A Chevy Matiz is likely to be less knackered than a Daewoo one. The buzzy motor is pretty tough and reliable overall, if scruffy after a decade of service. It’s certainly better than the titchy 800cc option.