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Daewoo Kalos

When Daewoo arrived in the UK seven years ago, it had already embarked on a shopping spree, buying up factories and splashing cash on whole new model ranges designed by Italian stylists. As with many shopaholics, however, the money dried up, and the firm entered the new century on its knees. But global giant GM bailed it out, and the Korean manufacturer lives on.

By Matt Master

September 2002

When Daewoo arrived in the UK seven years ago, it had already embarked on a shopping spree, buying up factories and splashing cash on whole new model ranges designed by Italian stylists. As with many shopaholics, however, the money dried up, and the firm entered the new century on its knees. But global giant GM bailed it out, and the Korean manufacturer lives on.

The Kalos supermini is the first launch since the troubles, and should bring about a universal sigh of relief. It was obviously developed before the cash ran out, though, because against all the odds it's a bit of a gem. Jump behind the wheel, and the cabin is a revelation. Gone is the muddle of cost-cutting components we're used to. The interior is clean and simple, owing much to the Honda Jazz with its modern materials and unfussy dash. With the car standing 1,500mm high and having a 2,500mm wheelbase, head and legroom are excellent in the front and back. The only disappointment is a tinny door shut, instead of the reassuring thump we've come to expect from the likes of VW.

The surprises don't stop there, either. Turn the key and the 83bhp 1.4-litre engine seems almost too quiet. The four-cylinder unit has been extensively reworked to provide the best possible balance of economy and power. Although a bit rough and short of performance for the real enthusiast, a 0-60mph time of 13.3 seconds and top speed of 106mph is adequate. Fuel economy falls behind that of the class leaders, though, with a thirsty 37.7mpg average. On the move, the gearbox is solid and direct, and the ride exceptionally refined. At speed there is no discernible wind-noise, while road imperfections are soaked up with ease. And the steering is better than you expect, proving direct through corners with little body roll to upset the car's balance.

Offered in SE and SX trim, the Kalos is well equipped. Both get ABS, power-steering, electric front windows, central locking and front and side airbags, with the SX adding air-con, front fogs, electric rear windows, a folding picnic table and some dubious carbon fibre-effect trim.

Key to the car's success will be prices, though, which will be officially announced at the British Motor Show in October. But however much it costs, it's clear General Motors has scooped up a tidy little windfall with the Kalos.

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FIRST OPINION

    The Kalos is a host of surprises. Better to look at than any other recent Daewoo, both inside and out, it's also well designed and built, plus good to drive. The car will reassure GM that its investment was a wise one. If it's aggressively priced, it could be the start of great new things for Daewoo - and a major head-ache for established rivals.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Kalos due here later this year, with prices to be announced at its British Motor Show debut
    Both SE and SX models feature ABS and four airbags as standard
     
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