Chevrolet Lacetti SW

The Lacetti isn’t the fastest or most agile machine in its class. But we can’t ignore the level of equipment, plus the three-year/60,000-mile warranty you get for the price. As most auto brands raise prices, the discounted Chevrolet makes sense.

Here’s a bargain from Chevrolet. From 1-15 March, the entry-level version of its new Lacetti Station Wagon will be on sale for £9,965 – which is £2,670 less than normal.

For that, you get inoffensive styling, plus lots of kit. Features include power windows all-round, electrically adjustable door mirrors, air-con, a CD stereo, 15-inch alloys, a cooled glovebox, remote central locking and a leather steering wheel and gearknob.

A high driving position means good visibility, but while supple suspension ensures a comfortable ride on long trips, the trade-off comes in terms of handling, with body roll an issue. The steering is light and vague, too.

Under the bonnet, the 1.6-litre petrol engine is mated to a five-speed manual box. The unit revs as high as 6,000rpm, although it feels underpowered and overworked, and at higher speeds its noise can get tiring.

Still, the new load-lugging Lacetti is a lot of car for the money – especially when you consider that its closest rivals, the Renault Clio Sport Tourer and Peugeot 207 SW, come in at £11,097 and £11,940 respectively.

Rival: Clio Sport Tourer Renault’s mini load carrier starts at just over £11,000, and has a generous 439-litre boot. It’s frugal, too – and is a worthy rival to any estate.