The small cars segment includes both sub-compact and compact cars. These include many entry-level models and some of the most fuel-efficient models on the market today. Don’t let their low price or small size fool you—these award-winners are sometimes fun-to-drive, always practical, and many have received safety accolades.
This 2009 Small Cars Buyer’s Guide is a compiled list of the top-performing small cars from J.D. Power and Associates three key automotive studies. The studies include the 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In addition, we have also noted any models in the guide that have earned “5-star” crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), or have been chosen as “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
2009 Chevrolet Aveo
The subcompact Chevrolet Aveo arrived on the market in 2004. It is available in sedan (Aveo) or 5-door (Aveo5) configurations. All feature the same 1.6-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic is optional (in EPA testing, the Aveo with the automatic transmission earned fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway). The Chevrolet Aveo has an independent front suspension, semi-independent rear suspension, and standard front disc/rear drum brakes with optional anti-lock control (ABS). In our 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), designed to measure problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, the Chevrolet ranked among the top three models in its segment. Proving a small car can also be a safe car, the Aveo received “5-star” crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in recent testing—just keep in mind that frontal crash ratings for small cars apply only if the car impacts another vehicle of about the same size and weight. For 2009, Chevrolet has increased the Aveo’s horsepower output, and added several new features to the lineup. There are also three new exterior colors.
Get more information on the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo
Other 2009 Small Car models:
