New Chevrolet Aveo Revealed in Production Form Ahead of Paris Show

Hot off the introduction of the Orlando MPV and Cruze hatchback show car, Chevrolet today released the first photos of the production Aveo five-door hatchback, which will make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month.

Most of the styling, including details such as the 'hidden' rear door handles and the 'angry' looking front with the exposed twin-headlamps and dual port grille, has been carried over from the Aveo RS show car that was displayed at the Detroit and Geneva motor shows earlier this year.

Chevrolet did not release any pictures of the cabin, but expect the design to be similar to the concept model. According to GM, interior features include a motorcycle-inspired instrument cluster, blue backlighting on the center console, multiple storage spaces in the center stack and an audio system with USB, aux-in and Bluetooth functionality.

GM said that the Aveo hatch is longer and wider than the current model offering interior and cargo volume that is "among best in class".

The company claims the new Aveo's chassis has been tuned to satisfy European tastes "with a ride and handling ratio that combines comfort with responsiveness." Electronic power steering (EPS), Electronic stability control (ESC) and ABS brakes will be standard on all trim levels.

In Europe, the Aveo will be offered with a choice of four petrol engines, including two 1.2-liter units producing 70HP and 86HP, a 100HP 1.4-liter and a 115HP 1.6-liter, and for the first time, a 1.3-liter turbo diesel featuring Start/Stop technology that will be available with 75HP or 90HP.

Depending on engine choice, the Aveo is equipped with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox while Chevrolet's first 6-speed automatic transmission on a small car will be offered on the 1.4 and 1.6 petrol units as an option in most markets.

The 2012MY Aveo will also be available as a sedan model, though Chevrolet did not say if it will make its debut alongside the 5-door hatch in Paris.

Both the 5-door and 4-door body styles of the new Aveo will go on sale across Europe next summer.

Production of the North American versions of the Aveo will take place at GM's Orion Assembly in Orion Township, Michigan starting from 2011 also.