Chevrolet’s fresh-faced baby is here

With a fresh face and a different name, Chevrolet’s Aveo is aiming to set new standards for the firm in the competitive supermini sector.

The eagerly anticipated replacement for the Kalos – which uses the previous car’s platform – debuts at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, and goes on sale in the spring.

Externally, there’s a new Audi-style grille, revised bonnet and large wraparound headlamps. However, in profile, the model appears similar to its predecessor, with the same body panels and window line.

Alterations are similarly discreet at the rear, where updates are limited to the introduction of clear lens covers for the tail-lights. Although Chevrolet assures us that there are more significant differences inside, it hasn’t released any images yet. The US firm claims revisions to the cabin include the use of new soft-touch plastics, which feature on the dashboard and door pulls, plus a whole new range of fabrics for the seats.

Under the reprofiled bonnet, buy­ers will be offered a choice of two uprated petrol engines: an 83bhp 1.2-litre or a 96bhp 1.4. Both units are mated to a five-speed manual transmission as standard, while the larger powerplant will be available with the option of a four-ratio auto. Prices have yet to be confirmed.