Daewoo Nubira 1.5

By Charley Chae

November 2002

And it looks good as well, thanks to Pininfarina styling, stacks of standard equipment and a low asking price. These factors combine to get the fresh model off to a great start.

The designers have tried to move as far away from the old Nubira's looks as possible, and the new version is modern and attractive, with more than a hint of Vauxhall Vectra to it. Inside, things get much more luxurious than on the outgoing car.

A two-tone dashboard, a smattering of wood trim and a neat instrument cluster provide a quality feel. Steering wheel-mounted radio controls are a welcome addition, and our test car had the weather pack fitted, which adds automatic rain-sensing wipers and a heated front windscreen to the list of standard equipment.

Although UK engine options are yet to be confirmed, in Korea the Nubira will be offered with a choice of 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol units. The 104bhp 1.5 driven here is a far cry from the unrefined Daewoo powerplants of the past. It spins smoothly through the rev range, even if it starts running out of steam at about 4,000rpm. Once up to speed, the Nubira is a fine cruiser, although the suspension has the same basic structure as the old model's. The set-up is much harder, leading to a jittery ride on poor surfaces.

Disc brakes all-round with EBD and ABS give a solid feel and bring the car to a stop with little fuss. The Nubira will offer five-speed manual and four-speed auto transmissions when it arrives here next summer. While the former will take most sales, its notchy motion falls short of that of the class leaders.

Prices are expected to pitch the Nubira at the budget end of the market, although mainstream manufacturers often have special deals which overlap this territory. For example, you can currently get a Rover 45 five-door at ΂£9,995. Daewoo will have to be brave with prices in its new world to beat them.

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