Used test: Chevrolet Aveo vs Skoda Fabia vs Suzuki Swift
The Skoda Fabia, Suzuki Swift and Chevrolet Aveo were all bargain small cars, even when they were new. Are they now extra-value used items?...
Our Verdict
None of these small cars will leave you short-changed. However, of them all, it’s the Chevrolet Aveo that will make you wish you’d spent a little more. The lack of dealer support isn’t great when ownership comes into consideration; someone has to look after your car after all. And even if you find an independent service centre you trust and are prepared to take the added risk from a lack of parts availability, you’ll still have to deal with the Aveo’s sluggish, noisy engine and roly-poly handling.
The Suzuki Swift takes silver. While we like it as a car to enjoy driving, it is hampered too much by that small boot and cramped rear quarters. The lack of creature comforts found on the others in this test also help to hold it back.
All things considered, therefore, the Skoda Fabia has to win: it’s the biggest, the best to drive, the most practical and the most refined. It’s far from the best small car on the market and it is also the most expensive car here, but we believe it’s worth the additional cost, as it’s a great package.
Read our review of the all-new Skoda Fabia
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For Easy to drive; strong engine; comfortable; roomy; refined
Against Dreary cabin; poor fuel economy; no stability control
Verdict The best all-rounder here
Rated 3 out of 5
Read the full used Skoda Fabia review
Find a used Skoda Fabia in the What Car? Classifieds
2nd – Suzuki Swift
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For Darty handling; willing engine; cheap to run
Against Limited rear space; noisy; pokey boot; poorly equipped
Verdict Great fun to drive. Shame it’s so noisy and cramped
Rated 3 out of 5
Read the full used Suzuki Swift review
Find a used Suzuki Swift in the What Car? Classifieds
3rd – Chevrolet Aveo
For Roomy interior; well equipped; supple ride; low running costs
Against Weakest engine; heavy steering; no seat-height adjust
Verdict A modest price, but a mediocre car
Rated 2 out of 5
Find a used Chevrolet Aveo in the What Car? Classifieds
Specifications: Skoda Fabia
Engine size 1.4-litre petrol
List price when new £11,995
Price today £4500*
Power 85bhp
Torque 97lb ft
0-60mph 12.2sec
Top speed 109mph
Fuel economy 47.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 139g/km
Specifications: Suzuki Swift
Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
List price when new £11,130
Price today £4000*
Power 93bhp
Torque 87lb ft
0-60mph 12.3sec
Top speed 103mph
Fuel economy 56.5mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 116g/km
Specifications: Chevrolet Aveo
Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
List price when new £9995
Price today £3800*
Power 85bhp
Torque 85lb ft
0-60mph 13.4sec
Top speed 106mph
Fuel economy 60.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 111g/km
Price today is based on a 2012 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
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