Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 SE

You wouldn't think that a 0.8 litre engine with a 4-speed fully automatic gearbox with torque convertor could be more than a droning city runabout but you'd be quite wrong. The Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 SE Automatic is a truly satisfying and complete car, capable of rapid and enjoyable cross-country journeys. I completed a journey of over 200 miles from Lincoln to Norwich and back in an afternoon without discomfort or fatigue. The cruising performance is remarkable. Sixty or seventy miles per hour is effortless due to the relatively high top gear and torque convertor lock-up. Acceleration feels brisk and reasonably effortless, particularly if use is made of the overdrive lockout switch which allows the car to advance smoothly to 60+mph in 3rd gear with lock-up.

The interior design is very pleasing, being attractive, comfortable and very practical. Roadholding is excellent with little roll and the ride is very well controlled although bump-thump can be noticeable on poor sufaces. On the Norfolk trip I got 54mpg driving quite briskly; generally I get about 43mpg. The engine is very sweet being almost inaudible at tickover and turbine smooth when cruising. It does get quite loud when thrashed, but that's rarely necessary. Mine's done 46000miles, of which I've done 4500 and it drives perfectly. I'd drive it anywhere and really enjoy it. The best Matiz and a really great driver's car.