The Czech liftback Skoda Rapid came to the Russian market with some delay. To find out if he could compete in the budget subcompact segment, we gave him a comparison test with the bestseller Kia Rio
into European Skoda test drive Rapid we went to Slovakia in the fall of 2012. That car was equipped with European engines and European suspension. Russian sales of the liftback began in the spring of 2014. During this time, production was launched in Kaluga, and the car itself was adapted to our difficult operating conditions. He received a suspension adapted for bad roads with an increase of 15 mm ground clearance, more powerful generator and starter, as well as a high-capacity battery. Bottom engine compartment got protection, and the electro-hydraulic power steering, as we expected, was replaced with an electric one. In addition, the anti-corrosion protection of the body has improved.
However, Kia Rio, produced at a plant near St. Petersburg, is adapted to Russian conditions no worse - where else in this class can you find steering wheel heating and windshield? Unless the related Hyundai Solaris. After three years of production, Rio has been updated. The car received a redesigned headlights and taillights, bumpers with LEDs, improved interior trim materials, a redesigned climate control unit, a new music system and some other, not particularly noticeable innovations.
Initial Kia price Rio is 469,900 rubles for a version with a 1.4-liter 107-horsepower engine and a manual 5-speed gearbox. If you equip it with a 4-band "automatic", the price will rise to 567,900 rubles. Most affordable option with a 1.6-liter engine with 123 hp. and a 6-speed "mechanics" costs 585,900 rubles. He, but with a 6-band "automatic" will cost the buyer no less than 625,900 rubles.
Minimum price Skoda Rapid- 489,000 rubles. So much is the option with a 1.2-liter engine with 75 hp. and a manual 5-speed gearbox. This is followed by a modification with the old 1.6-liter 105-horsepower engine, which is offered for 539,000 rubles in a version with a 5-speed "mechanics" and for 584,000 rubles - with a 6-band "automatic". And finally, the most powerful option, equipped with a 1.4-liter engine with 122 hp. and a 7-speed DSG transmission with two clutches, is sold at a price of 698,000 rubles.
Interestingly, the basic Rapid price with a 1.6-liter engine and “mechanics” (539,000 rubles) is noticeably lower than that of Rio with the same engine (585,000 rubles). Moreover, a 1.6-liter Rapid with an “automatic” costs 1,000 rubles less than a Rio with mechanical box gears. We honestly thought it would be the other way around. But if we take the initial modifications of these cars with the most modest engines, then Kia has the advantage here. We also tested 1.6-liter versions, with Rapid equipped with a manual gearbox, and Rio with an “automatic”.
Interior decoration
The Skoda brand belongs to the Volks-wagen concern, which means that the quality of the interior decoration of its cars should be at the highest level. Even such a budget model as Rapid. On the one hand, this is true: the gaps between the interior panels are minimal, all buttons and levers turn on with clear clicks, and the visual quality of the materials is up to par. True, the plastic is everywhere hard to the touch, which, in principle, is inevitable for cars of this class. But when you sit down Salon Kia, suddenly you realize that its interior is... better! The build quality is not inferior to Skoda, while the plastic looks more expensive, and dashboard lined with leatherette. And the design is more lively and modern.
True, in terms of ergonomics, Skoda is already the leader - the Rapid's on-board interface is more understandable. However, the Czech liftback is also not without sin. So, auto mode it has only a driver's window regulator, and it only works when the window is lowered. At Kia, auto mode is also provided only for the driver's window, but unlike the "Czech", it not only lowers itself, but also rises.
In terms of landing geometry, Rapid again wins. Here, everything is Volkswagen-correct, including large ranges of steering and pedal adjustments. But in Rio there is a feeling that the landing was selected for short and long-armed riders. The seat, even in the lowest position, is very high, and the steering wheel lacks reach adjustment. As a result, one has to sit either with the legs strongly bent or with the arms strongly extended. If you move to the right front seat, it turns out that it does not have a height adjustment, while the right Skoda seat has it.
Legroom on the second row of a Czech car will be envied by models a couple of classes higher. If a front seat configured for a person with a height of 180 cm, then a passenger of the same height sitting behind him has a margin of about 15 cm in front of his knees! At the same time, about 5 cm of free space remains above the head. However, it will no longer be possible to put your head on the headrest - the crown will rest against the falling roof. Surprisingly, Kia has only a couple of centimeters less in front of the knees, but the same couple of centimeters more above the head, and the head, albeit back to back, can be arranged on the headrest. In terms of comfort, the sofas of the rivals are approximately equal - two riders will feel quite comfortable. Neither one has center armrests.
The trunk of the Rapid is huge and well planned. The only complaint is a very heavy fifth door. When there are heavy bags in your hands, there may be problems with lifting it - it would not hurt to install more powerful springs here. Rio luggage compartment not so voluminous, but there is enough space for luggage here. Under the floor, both opponents have a full-fledged spare wheel. And for both, you can increase the volume of the trunk by folding the back of the rear sofa, while neither Skoda nor Kia can get a flat platform, which, however, is not scary at all.
different schools
Skoda Rapid due to its relationship with Volkswagen is a full-fledged representative of the German school. The clutch is informative, and the lever mechanical transmission has clear small moves. At the same time, the first, third and fifth gears are located very close - so much so that you can make a mistake out of habit. The engine roars cheerfully and pleases with good traction thanks to close gears - in the third one you can safely turn at intersections. But on a country road, you have to regret the absence of a sixth gear, since the motor runs on high revs which is not conducive to economy.
Kia Rio engine develops almost 20 hp more than Skoda, with the same volume of 1.6 liters. In connection with this fact, the acceleration of the Korean car feels no less intense, despite the presence of a slow automatic transmission. But the "automatic" works very smoothly. At the same time, there is enough traction in most cases. traffic situations, including outside the city. And the presence of the sixth gear allows you to save fuel and at high speed.
The brakes work well on both cars, but the Skoda has a more precise and informative pedal, which makes it easier to control deceleration.
The German school of chassis tuning puts the Czech liftback in the lead in this handling test. Stability on a straight line "reinforced concrete". At the same time, Rapid ignores rutting and other irregularities, continuing, as if on rails, to follow the course outlined by the driver. If you close your eyes, you can easily imagine that you are driving a VW Passat or even an Audi A6, the car is so unshakable. And on a twisty track, the chassis behaves brilliantly - Rapid rides very collected and precise, with minimal roll. Extremely positive impressions are caused by steering. "Baranka" is sharp - only 2.5 turns from lock to lock. At the same time, there is no nervousness at high speed, and in turns - accurate and quick reactions. And the information content is great. Shine!
The Rio is a bit rutted, though overall this car handles quite well on the motorway (it just pales in comparison to the Rapid's chassis setup). "Korean" is not so fast in turns, heels a little more and is less accurate. If Skoda can please an active driver, then Kia seems to be telling him that he prefers a calm and balanced ride, without the squeal of “rubber” in turns. Echoes the settings of the chassis and the "calm" steering wheel, making exactly three turns from lock to lock. In terms of speed of reactions, informativeness and accuracy, it cannot be compared with an opponent, but in general, its settings do not cause any complaints.
Skoda has to pay for perfect handling with driving comfort. The suspension, although tuned softer than that of the European version, is still quite tough: not a single bump or crack in the asphalt will go unnoticed. And on a wavy country surface, the car begins to throw riders on the waves. But the energy intensity of the suspension is excellent - although it shakes on a broken road, there are no breakdowns.
Kia Rio rides softer on relatively flat asphalt than Skoda Rapid. Particularly impressive is the ability of its suspension to “dissolve” asphalt patches and cracks, as well as tram rails. And on the cobblestone pavement, the Korean car carries its riders as if on an air cushion, while the “Czech” in these conditions resembles a vibration stand. True, on a wavy road, the “Korean” begins to build up, and on broken asphalt, the energy intensity of the chassis is no longer enough - the suspension “catches” hard breakdowns. Interestingly, when we drove the Kia Rio last time, about a year and a half ago, its suspension was set up noticeably stiffer. Apparently, the company's engineers are still trying to find golden mean for our roads. But it is not easy - in one you win, in another you lose. In a word, with the current settings on the Kia Rio, it has become more comfortable than before to drive on more or less even roads at the cost of energy consumption on bad roads. So for broken directions it is better to choose Skoda Rapid.
Usually cars of class "B" are distinguished by the lack of normal sound insulation, however, our rivals in this parameter showed themselves surprisingly well. Of course, the silence of business sedans is not to be expected from them, but in general, the acoustic comfort in both Skoda and Kia is at its best. Both engines sound quite loud at high speeds and not particularly melodic, but not annoying. The noise of the oncoming air flow at high speeds is clearly audible, but it does not go beyond the comfort zone. And the tires are surprisingly quiet. However, both test specimens were “shod” in high-quality tires, and when installing cheap “rubber”, the situation may change.
To be honest, before the start of the test, we thought that Skoda would win "one way". Rapid, in fact, won, but you can’t call him an easy victory. Yes, Kia Rio is not gambling, and it does not have such a perfect chassis as Skoda. But the Korean sedan pleased with an excellent quality interior and almost did not lose in terms of capacity for rear passengers. Moreover, in city driving, the Kia proved to be more comfortable. And at the Moscow car wash for Rapid they took 450 rubles from us, while for Rio only 350. Another argument ...
| Specifications Kia Rio 1.6 |
|
|---|---|
| Dimensions, mm | 4370x1700x1470 |
| Wheelbase, mm | |
| Track front / rear, mm | |
| Turning diameter, m | there is no data |
| Clearance, mm | |
| Trunk volume, l | |
| Curb weight, kg | |
| engine's type | petrol L4 |
| Working volume, cu. cm | |
| Max. power, hp/r/min | |
For example, bi-xenon headlights in the Skoda configurator cost an additional 33 thousand rubles. At the same time, package number 8, which includes bi-xenon optics, rain and light sensors, rear parking sensors and a rear wiper, costs 44.5 thousand rubles. If bi-xenon optics is not a prerequisite for you, then we advise you to take a closer look at package number 7 (21,500 rubles). It includes front and rear parking sensors, as well as a rear wiper.
3. Choose Your Media System Carefully
Skoda Rapid is offered with three types of audio systems: Blues, Swing and Amudsen. In the first case, we are talking about a single-din radio with a tiny monochrome display (11,600 rubles). Swing is already a two-din radio with touch screen diagonal 6.5 inches. It is set for all Rapids, starting from average configuration Ambition. However, Swing can also be ordered for a basic liftback - in this case, you will have to pay 13,000 rubles.
The most expensive trim levels include an Amudsen audio system with six speakers, support for all digital formats, navigation and voice control. By the way, the built-in maps are distinguished by excellent detail and detailed drawing of the route. The complex does not slow down, quickly responds to pressing, but it still costs a lot - 34.4 thousand rubles. If you want the system to duplicate the image of a smartphone connected to the system (the option is called Smart Link), you will have to pay another 8,000 rubles.
On the one hand, in total it turns out to be too expensive even by the standards of the older C- and D-segments. On the other hand, a large display and extended functionality significantly transform the interior of the liftback, where there is still a lot of hard plastic, and the front panel does not differ in design frills.
4. Decide on a complete set before going to a car dealership
Skoda Rapid is sold with so many checkboxes in the configurator that it seems possible to assemble an absolutely unique car. In the basic configuration (604,000 rubles), the liftback will not even have air conditioning, while the most equipped version will have options from the upper classes, keyless entry, heated rear seats and navigation.
We collected the most expensive Rapid in the configurator - and it turned out to be 1,256,100 rubles. This is more expensive than all competitors in the B-class. For such money you can buy, for example, Ford Focus in maximum configuration Titanium with 150 hp engine, Kia cee'd in top version Premium (135 hp) or, for example, the most equipped Hyundai Creta with "automatic" and all-wheel drive. Therefore, before going to official dealer it is better to decide in advance which Rapid you need.
It is known that everyone is inclined to choose their own, namely unique preferences in appearance, purpose, etc. led to a huge variety of cars. However, not everyone plans to buy a car based only on visually satisfactory design, performance, equipment, so many other things play a paramount role. A similar 1.6 liter engine becomes the basis for the selection of cars, but it should be carried out comparative review machines and determine the main advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Assembly
If we take into account the place of assembly of the car for our region, then there is no fundamental difference, since the production of both vehicles is located in Russia. So Skoda Rapid is supplied from Kaluga, and Kia Rio is manufactured in St. Petersburg.
body type
Here the interesting begins, if you look at the Kia lineup, then the Rio model is sold in a hatchback or sedan body, that is, you have to choose between them. Rapid, on the other hand, has common visual features taken from both types, as it combines a sedan with a hatchback. Such a body is called a liftback, a fairly unique design and recognition is provided, but how functional they are, each owner chooses on their own.
Exterior
Some differences in external design and size are observed in both cars, but it is difficult to give unequivocal pluses to either side, rather a matter of taste. The Czech auto industry created a model with strictly underlined broken lines, visually it should be noted the similarity with the Octavia, not even everyone can distinguish them right away. The Korean car industry has characteristic features of Asian design, it is quite traditional, but there are also some elements of European trends. The design is based on a calm form, with smooth lines, in general, an impression of peace is created. Trends promise further expansion of this direction.
Trunk and capacity
The choice between these cars in terms of capacity can be made with the naked eye. If you look at Skoda, then there is a large trunk, its capacity reaches 550 liters, and this is subject to the presence of rear backrests. The useful volume increases greatly, if they are omitted, then 1500 liters can be accommodated. Paying attention not to the exhibit of the Korean manufacturer, a trunk with a volume of 389 liters is observed, which is 30% less than a competitor. The documentation does not indicate the volume with the backs lowered, but it is obvious that it will be less.
If we compare the dimensions inside the car, then at first glance there is no significant difference. Nevertheless, reviews from tall owners are definitely the preferred choice in favor of Rapid due to the convenient location of the steering wheel and pedals, when the steering wheel does not interfere with pedaling. Kia Rio does not provide such comfort, you will have to choose between the convenience of pressing the accelerator or control.
The body of the Czech car is somewhat wider, which allows the driver to get more space in the shoulders. The front panel makes a significant contribution to the appearance of the interior of the “Korean”. It is made of high-quality plastic, while sheathed with leatherette, in appearance it gives the impression of a high cost of the model. Skoda stinted on plastic, it is not very pleasant to the touch, the impression of use is mediocre, a cheap series of material is immediately noticeable. At the same time, the panel is assembled somewhat sloppily, which creates a slight hum when using it.
Interior
The instrument panel is more attractive, brighter and richer on the Kia, which immediately catches the eye. Made according to the Supervision design with red backlighting, which looks impressive, expensive and aggressive. Skoda went the opposite way, instead of beauty, preference is given to informativeness and ease of understanding of instruments. The readability of the shield is at a high level in any light, but the appearance is less spectacular.
Moving to the rear seats, there is a slightly larger space on the Skoda side, this is extremely important when accommodating tall passengers. More spacious in the Skoda Rapid 2016, but both competitors do not have much discomfort. Compared to Kia, the angle of inclination at the back is slightly larger, because of this, more load from the back of the passenger is transferred to the seat and noted best level facilities. Also at the back of the Skoda there are lamps, several cup holders, the usual handles on the ceiling, there are pockets in the doors. For the Korean car, they made the only lamp and a cup holder, and there are no pockets at all, another small drawback is that the glass on the door does not go down completely. In contrast to the shortcomings of the Kia, the seats are sheathed in a material prone to self-cleaning. Also, the car, when transporting 3 passengers in the back, has more amenities, since there is no tunnel in the center.
Equipment
We note right away that the more technologically advanced is the Kia Rio. The car has alloy wheels, built-in a large number of airbags (6 pcs.). You can enjoy climate control, the audio system has a pleasant, clear sound. Built in fog lights, and for glasses there is a luxury - electric heating. To obtain the same characteristics in Skoda, you should overpay and buy a more expensive equipment. The standard one includes 2 pillows, the wheels are in a stamped disc.
Clearance. This figure is approximately the same appearance practically indistinguishable. Technical documentation reports for Skoda the suspension and its ground clearance - 143 mm, while for the Korean competitor - 160 mm.
Technical comparison
Acceleration and top speed. It is difficult to take into account this parameter when choosing a car, since the dynamic component is approximately identical, and the values are extremely close. Yes for manual transmission Skoda comparison and Kia is 10.6 and 10.3, if you take into account the automatic transmission, the gap is also minimal, 11.9 and 11.2. The maximum developed speed - both cars confidently keep at a speed of 190 km / h. The engine capacity of both cars is the same - 1.6 liters. Thus, both vehicles are fast enough, dynamic and great for the city, but a small plus is still in favor of Skoda.
Fuel consumption. Cars in this regard are almost the same, so you can compare as follows:
As can be seen from the table, gasoline is consumed approximately the same, but Kia has somewhat lower consumption, although both cars can be called economical.
Fuel tank volume. The difference in capacity is significant, especially when traveling long distances. Skoda has a tank with a capacity of 55 liters, Kia was a little stingy and installed only 43 liters.
Transmission. The choice should be made individually, as there are various gearbox models depending on the configuration, but the Kia Rio has definitely more variety of choices. The technology used in Kia emphasizes the reliability of the hydro-mechanical device, which is much better than that of the "European", which works on the basis of the DSG robot, which has earned a bad reputation in the world. So kia car Sold in five and six speed manual type options, the machine comes in four and six speed models. Skoda has a slightly more meager choice, where only a five-speed manual transmission and a six-speed automatic.
Power
The advantage in this section should be given to Kia, which is 18 Horse power ahead of the opponent. So Skoda has 105 hp, to which Kia responds with 128 hp.
Driving characteristic
The Korean version clearly has the championship, since it is much more convenient to drive, because the movements are smooth, it is not difficult to enter turns at a calm pace. If a turn is made under acute angle, then it does not roll. Skoda, in turn, is much more straightforward, maneuverability may be somewhat lacking. Even the type of acceleration is different, Kia is characterized by smoothness, regularity, some linearity, which is more reliable than Skoda. Skoda, on the other hand, accelerates sharply, abruptly, which creates the impression of aggressiveness.
Test Drive
Of course, it is impossible to determine the Skoda Rapid or Kia Rio which is better without identifying the behavior of cars in real operating conditions. After spending comparative test drive additional features of the machines surfaced.
Noise isolation good quality for both variants of the car, there is no significant consumption in terms of quality. Nevertheless, maintaining a dialogue in calm tones may not work. It has already been stipulated that Kia has higher power, but in real conditions this did not become noticeable, acceleration was carried out in approximately the same time, although the behavior is different. The Korean has a pleasant, light gas pedal, if available automatic transmission, the selection of the required gear is made faster. Tests have shown that Skoda needs more pressure on the accelerator to give top speed. The operation of an automatic transmission on a European is somewhat worse, since a decrease in speed leads to a slight delay when shifting gears, which are eliminated in sports mode.
Kia Rio is a little more difficult to control on a more even trajectory, as it is difficult to determine a clear zero, from which the steering angle is counted. Since the Korean car somewhat limits the unity with the driver, you will have to feel some discomfort, perhaps almost imperceptible.
Conclusion
Kia wins in terms of equipment, but Skoda is better suitable as a family car, with a larger capacity. However, a significant plus in the direction of the "Korean", since the cost is less, in a crisis, people prefer this factor. What to choose, preferences in terms of design, price, functionality, power, etc. should be determined independently, since both options are worthy competitors.
Video comparison of Rapid with Rio
Rapid, is it worth the money?
Vorotnikov in great detail about Rapid
And now Votonikov's opinion about Rio
More test drive tells about Kia Rio
It's no secret that in the "Compact" class, leadership is shared by American and European cars. Of course, there was such a period that the Koreans tried to intervene in this confrontation, but the Asian automakers did not succeed. Today we will compare Ford Focus and Skoda Rapid. It was these companies that made the most notable contribution to the aforementioned confrontation. And now we will try to decide which of the cars worthy of more attention.
In 1998, a presentation of a subcompact car took place, which was not much different from the concept presented back in 1991. Interestingly, the car is considered one of the most popular in Russia. From 1999 to this day, over 500,000 Focus copies have been sold on the domestic market. Restyling took place in 2002 American model, after which the car received an improved design and filling. It is worth noting that the level of sales of the updated compact car increased by 50%.
In 2004, the second generation Focus, based on the C1 module, was presented to the public. The car is considered a direct relative of the Volvo S40 and Mazda 3, as it shares the same platform with them. In 2008, an updated version of the "American" was presented in Frankfurt. Among the most significant changes, we should highlight the modernization of the security system.
In 2010, the Focus 3 debuted in Detroit, which also experienced a major restyling in 2014. According to company representatives, the fourth generation model should be released next year.
The main competitor of the "American" - Skoda Rapid, was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2011. To be more precise, a concept car of the model was presented in Germany, and the final version of the Rapid debuted in the fall of 2012 in Paris. In 2013, the Czech model began at the domestic plant in Kaluga. It is worth noting that the Russian version of Rapid has an adapted suspension and higher ground clearance.
In Russia, four complete sets of vehicle equipment are available. Plus, in 2012, Rapid was recognized as the safest in the segment. At the moment, a rebadged version of the Czech car, the Seat Toledo, is also available on the world market.
What is better in terms of career success? I would like to give the advantage to the "American" Ford Focus.
Appearance
Comparing the exterior of cars, one can notice one rather rare and therefore even more interesting pattern: outwardly, the design of the car absorbed the mentality and traditions of the manufacturer's country. We explain: in the exterior of the Focus, one can notice the irascibility and purposefulness inherent in Americans. The designers managed to combine progressiveness and traditionalism inherent in the entire Ford model range.
His opponent looks like quite a typical European car, the exterior of which is made according to the concept of conservatism and practicality, but at the same time it is not devoid of taste and sophistication.
Despite this difference, the front of the cars has a very similar layout of elements, but here I want to give the advantage to the Ford Focus.
But the sides and rear of the cars are completely different, which is more in line with the expectations of motorists. For more daring design decisions, again, a local victory is awarded to the "American".
Given the above, Ford Focus looks stronger than its competitor in terms of appearance.
Hatchback and station wagon
Cars are also produced in other bodies. Ford Focus in the back of a hatchback and station wagon, Rapid, in addition to the sedan, in a combi.
Salon
Comparing car interiors, I would like to note that they are made in very similar stylistic concepts, but, nevertheless, the interior decoration of the Focus is prettier. This is due to the perfect combination of the main features in the American salon. model range and the latest technological developments of the company. In turn, Rapid can offer a very boring and familiar interior. Of course, he cannot be called very weak, but in this confrontation he is noticeably inferior.
The only consolation for the Czech developers was that the interior of their car is more spacious than the opponent. But as for the quality of the finish, here, again, the Ford Focus is a clear favorite.
Specifications
For the most objective comparison, we contrasted two 1.6-liter modifications Focus and Rapid, each of which was assembled in 2017.
So, the Rapid body is longer than the Focus by 123 mm, but at the same time lower by 31 mm. The wheelbase is also longer american car- 2648 mm versus 2602 mm. But the clearance is higher for the "Czech" - 170 mm versus 167 mm. In addition, the Skoda Rapid is 159 kg lighter than its opponent. Here we note that the Rapid has a more voluminous luggage compartment - 530 liters, against 316 liters for the Focus.
Concerning power units, then they both run on gasoline, and are connected to the system all-wheel drive. Despite the same volume, the power of the engines is different. The Rapid engine produces 110 horsepower, and the Focus - 125 "horses". This difference is explained quite simply - the motor of an American car is equipped with a turbine supercharger.
If we talk about dynamism indicators, then, for example, the acceleration time from zero to hundreds of Rapid is 11.6 s, while its current competitor has 11.7 s. Also, the Czech model boasts - 6.1 liters on average, against 6.3 liters for the Focus.
Price
After analyzing the realities Russian market, we managed to find out that the average cost is 725,000 rubles. His American counterpart will cost about 960 thousand rubles. The relatively high cost of the 2017 Focus is explained by the fact that Americans have always been famous for their tendency to overprice their products.
There are five colorful houses on the street. The Englishman lives in red. In the center, they drink milk. The Spaniard breeds dogs. The Japanese smokes "Parliament". His neighbor keeps a horse. Q: Who keeps the zebra? And in which house do they like wine? Today we are talking about cars, and here is my riddle. Interior designers of the "Frenchman" live yesterday. The one in the center intends to drink the blood of competitors. A richly equipped "Korean" kindles a fire in our hearts. Looking at the futuristic interior of the "American", the rivals nervously smoke on the sidelines. His middle-aged neighbor keeps a good half of the market segment in suspense. Question: who will win?
000 RAPID_AVEO_SOLARIS_POLO_C-ELISEE zr9–14
THE AMERICAN DREAM
Yes, calling "Aveo" "American" can only be conditional. In addition to the name and the heraldic cross on the grill, almost nothing connects him with the heritage of the Louis Chevrolet company. Nevertheless, the sedan comes from the Korean branch of the General Motors concern, we love it dearly. Because a Chevrolet, though not a real one.
Love? Cold calculation! (I apologize if I hurt someone's feelings.) After all, Aveo - even in the maximum LTZ configuration and with a modern six-speed "automatic" - is the most affordable car in our quintet.
For 644,000 rubles we are offered modern sedan with six airbags, an advanced MyLink multimedia system, cruise control and a leather multifunction steering wheel. Alloy 16‑inch wheels are a bonus. Is it bad? Not every car in the class above is able to offer a similar set.
There are no objective reasons for dissatisfaction with the interior. Unless the space on the back sofa is somewhat less than that of rivals, and the back of the driver's seat slightly presses on the lower back. Moreover, you notice this only if you transfer to a Chevrolet from the reference Skoda. And let the intricate front panel not be to everyone's taste, but electronic speedometer framed control lamps retrogrades will be considered inappropriate, the overall ergonomic picture is pretty and absolutely complete.
And the Aveo rides well! The non-alternative 1.6‑liter aspirated honestly works out its 115 forces, the hydromechanics does not blunt. And only at high speeds this duet fills the cabin with a loud and tedious howl, diluted with no less nasty “sandblasting” of stones and sand hitting the wheel arches.
The Chevrolet chassis also does not cause negativity. Aveo has a competitive ride, reliable handling and the shortest braking distances. Ideal? Of course not. Because the Aveo goes hard along the large asphalt joints, poking at the steering wheel showing the driver its displeasure. And on bumps you have to correct the course.
It's a paradox, but Chevrolet, which lost on points, is devoid of significant shortcomings. Fortunately for us consumers, being the best among equals is no longer enough to just be a good guy.
ON THE FACE BEAUTIFUL - UNKIND INSIDE
A silver S-Elise sat next to a Passat in the parking lot. They stood so that only fragments of two muzzles were visible from my window. And I caught myself thinking that from this angle, the twice as cheap "Frenchman" looks more expensive and more solid than the "German"!
Citroen S-Elise seems to understand that there is no second chance to make a first impression. So he tries to prove his superiority and solvency with a swoop. Insolently and even arrogantly examines you with beautiful headlights. It lures with an interesting interior with gloss on the front panel and beckons with a dashingly beveled steering wheel at the bottom. And when you look at the rear seats ... If you are at least a little pragmatic at heart, all other aspects will lose their meaning: a royal supply of space!
In matters of superficial self-presentation, Citroen has a lot to learn. But you dig deeper - and the car is blown away, as if lined with Khitrukov's Piglet balloon. Presentation in appearance will melt like a fog if you walk around the car and peer into the overweight sides. And the interior, in fact, turned out to be so unpretentious and failed in small things that it became sad.
I'm not talking about the power window buttons on the center console - you can get used to them. Not about cheap plastic panels or cheap fabric upholstery ceiling. With the price of a well-equipped car at 656,900 rubles, these little things can be forgiven. But close your eyes to the tightly fixed upper points of fastening of seat belts and not adjustable for reach steering column…Sorry my! Yes, and I can’t put up with the lack of full-fledged head restraints on the back sofa.
But the suspension is fantastic! I don’t remember such a smooth ride since … I don’t even know what. And I bow with gratitude to the engineers who taught these impenetrable structures to give the driver a real drive.