For those who simply want a fairly well equipped, decent-sized, practical and innocuous new car at a bargain price, the Lacetti is sure to be amongst the options on the shopping list. Available in hatch and estate form, it's a versatile range that should have broad appeal.
Despite a sparkly chrome grille, the Lacetti fails to inspire for exterior styling. It's a bland, bulbous look that can be politely described as inconspicuous. The cabin is somewhat better, with a well-conceived layout and sturdy materials deployed with a reasonable finish. Although it seems unabashedly cheap in places and lacks the overall quality of many rivals, it would be unfair to have high expectations given this car's price point. There's plenty of space in the front seats, although drivers will bemoan a lack of adjustability, and adult passengers in the back struggle for legroom. While the saloon suffers for load lugging thanks to a narrow opening, the estate and hatchback versions are much more commendable.
It's a similar story to the car's looks when it comes to dynamics, as the Lacetti successfully hits the inoffensive middle ground. While the limits of traction are easy to reach, handling is safe and predictable up to that point, and the ride is competent and quite comfortable on most roads. The lethargic throttle pedal and grabby clutch are the only serious gripes we have.
An all-petrol engine line-up at launch offers acceptable performance, and while none impress for fuel consumption returns, and emissions are almost laughably bad, the top-dollar 1.8-litre choice is surprisingly quick, if noisy at high revs. As with most Chevy models sold in the UK, the Lacetti's value will drop quite rapidly, but servicing costs and insurance premiums are very reasonable.
Offering good value through most of the range, and undercutting the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra by thousands, the Lacetti can't be ignored at these prices, despite its lack of charisma and outright ability.