Geneva 2011: Chevrolet Aveo Sedan

It seems like Chevrolet decided to play all of its cards at the Geneva Auto Show, revealing to the journalists present there two very interesting, yet not commonly seen interpretations of its models: on the one hand, the predominantly sedan Cruze received a hatchback version, while the predominantly hatchback Aveo was given a sedan interpretation.

It's not entirely clear how the American manufacturer plans to play the game having two not so distinct models fighting for supremacy in both the sedan and hatch segments, but this doesn't necessarily mean it will not try.

Known in the US as the Sonic, the European Aveo will be targeted at people who want a family sedan (if you think this is what the Cruze is all about as well, you're correct), one which can offer enough comfort and safety as well as, for instance, luggage space (502 liters of cargo volume in the Aveo).

The model will be introduced to the Old Continent with several engines, spearheaded by the two versions of the 1.2l unit, with power ratings of 70 and 86 horsepower, respectively. A diesel unit will also be up for grabs, a 1.3l engine that can develop two outputs as well: 75 and 95 horsepower, respectively.

“The new Aveo is another important step forward for us in many aspects:, design, management, quality and space. We love to see it emulating the Cruze in terms of sales success. The current Aveo sedan is the 5th best selling car in its segment in Europe market, with a level of 12.5 percent,” said Wayne Brannon, Chevrolet Europe CEO.