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2004 Chevrolet Optra LS Road Test

15 novembre 2003

par Alexandra Straub


Well Dressed Korean Looks Good in a Bowtie

I'm stating the obvious when I say that sedans are everywhere. No matter where I am, downtown, uptown, in the suburbs or even staring at the car in my own driveway at home, sedans are what most people drive. And with a growing number of functional 4-doors available, the car-buying decision just gets harder and harder.

I had a chance to drive around town in the new 2004 Chevrolet Optra, and it turned out to be a pleasant experience. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
Case in point: the recent introduction of General Motors' Malibu, Epica and Optra. I had a chance to drive around town in the new 2004 Chevrolet Optra and get acquainted. My expectations weren't sky high, I must admit, and I wasn't particularly blown away, but at least my experience was pleasant.

The steering wheel has nice grooves for the fingers at the 9 and 3'oclock positions, the front cloth bucket seats are comfortable, and the standard 5-speed manual transmission smooth. While shifting gears, however, I did notice a clicking sound when I pushed the clutch in. It was a little annoying at first but I got used to it. By the way, a 4-speed automatic is also offered.

>Despite its modest price tag of $17,465, my upgraded Optra LS came with a number of upscale features. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
Handling is commendable for a sedan whose base price starts at a mere $16,190. The four-wheel independent suspension coupled with P195/55R15 all season tires, stick to the road on the windy roads even when pushed. The ride is not too sloppy and not too stiff. It's a nice balance of comfort and cornering ability.

Despite its modest price tag of $17,465, my upgraded Optra LS came with a few upscale features including power locks with remote keyless entry, air conditioning, dual front airbags, a tilt steering wheel with flush covers, and cruise control. Plus, a centre storage deposit tray, illuminated ignition keyhole, digital quartz clock, and a non-locking lighted glove box.

The interior is well finished and includes more standard features like a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo with decent sound quality (and you can option up to a AM/FM/CD/MP3 head unit for only $75), front power windows, floor mats and full carpeting with heel pad and driver-side dead pedal, fabric door trim and integrated front/rear map pockets, as well as a driver's-side sunglass holder. I found that all amenities where handily positioned.

The $1,725 Preferred Equipment package adds steering wheel mounted audio controls, a power glass tilt and slide sunroof, woodgrain accent trim and more. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
A $1,725 Preferred Equipment package adds steering wheel mounted audio controls to pump up the volume on 4 additional premium speakers, a power glass tilt and slide sunroof, woodgrain accent trim, a leather shift knob and leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lamps, mud guards and 15-inch alloy wheels.

The exterior styling is also notable. GM describes their Optra as having a "highly refined appearance and tight lines reminiscent of expensive European sedans." The body-colored front and rear bumpers with wrap-around bumper guards, body-colored side moldings and dual rear-view mirrors, halogen headlamps and fog lamps enhance the overall look. While attractive I found that it blended in with the crowd a little too much for my liking - a positive point to some as there's nothing wrong with going with the flow.

The Optra's 119-hp 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine is sufficient for cruising around town. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
Fueling the Optra's fire is a 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine providing 119 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 126 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The power is sufficient for its compact size, at least around town, but I wouldn't go as far to say ten seconds to 100 km/h is quick. It's enough to trek up steep hills at a decent speed though, unless loaded down, or coast along at reasonably fast highway speeds. When it comes to slowing the sedan down the standard power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes do a pretty good job as well. Spending a little extra on optional ABS might be wise just the same.

Despite the features, modest price tag, and sufficient power,

Although no major qualms with the functional Optra, it still feels a bit plain. (Photo: Alexandra Staub, Canadian Auto Press)
the Chevrolet Optra still felt very plain to me. But as for its functionality, I have no qualms. It took me from A to B with relative comfort and ease. It's practical and affordable, but I can't comment on dependability as it's a new model from GM's GMDAT division - what became of Daewoo after GM bought up the manufacturing facilities in South Korea. All the same the well dressed Korean wears the Chevy bowtie, which will mean a lot to the brand's loyal customers. Specifications (LS):