2012 Chevrolet Aveo First Pictures

Chevrolet unveiled the Aveo RS at the Detroit Auto Show in January and everybody expected a major upgrade from the current Aveo lineup. Only that the first pictures with the car reveal less-exciting improvements, although we must admit that the new model looks better as compared to the existing one.

The photos published by KickingTires present a refreshed front fascia, with a more aggressive appearance thanks to new headlights and a larger grille. Overall, the car seems to be a bit sharper, although we haven't seen the rear side yet.

The interior on the other hand seems to be inspired by the Equinox, but also comes with some out of the regular yet eye-cathing tachometer and speedometer.

There are no details on the engine, but the RS concept was powered by a 1.4-liter I-4 Ecotec turbocharged engine that developed 138 horsepower. It was mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Production will begin, as confirmed by General Motors, in 2011, with all operations to be handled by the Orion Assembly in Orion Township, Mich.

As we've seen in some spyshots published earlier this month, the production version's interior differs from the one seen on the concept but retains some of its features. The Bluetooth controls have apparently been removed and replaced with a typical CD/Radio sound system. Anyway, the car comes with the same multi-function steering wheel, instrument cluster housing, position of the HVAC vents and controls as the Detroit concept.

More details are likely to emerge in the upcoming months, as Chevrolet will most likely reveal the full in all its glory at one of the next auto shows.