Car Statistics: Chevrolet - Lacetti Series 04 (3 stars)

Styling (2 stars)

Style is not one of the Lacetti's notable qualities - bland design is barely lifted by the excessively chromey radiator grille.

Handling (3 stars)

Composed cornering and good motorway stability are more than enough to satisfy the Lacetti's dynamically undemanding clientele.

Comfort (3 stars)

Ride quality is reasonable, although cabin noise levels get relatively high at motorway speeds due to low gearing.

Quality (3 stars)

It doesn't feel expensive - but it does feel tough. Doors shut with a weighty

Performance (3 stars)

The base 1.4 litre petrol engine needs to be worked hard for decent progress, the 1.6 and 1.8 are far better - although both get loud when pushed.

Roominess (3 stars)

Decent space in the front, although driving position lacks the range of adjustment of some rivals. Rear seat space is relatively tight, but the luggage area is impressively large.

Costs (3 stars)

Cheap servicing and insurance are the upsides, but depreciation is steeper than mainstream rivals - and fuel economy is knocked by the lack of a diesel option.

Value (5 stars)

The more basic versions look like compelling value, although we'd recommend going far enough up the range to land standard aircon. Prices undercut equivalent Focus and Astra by several thousand pounds.

Stereo (2 stars)

Stereo lacks dynamic range and gets boomy when turned up - separate faceplate for security is also a hassle. Satnav is only available on top-spec 1.8 CDX.