| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Matiz fits a lot into a mini-sized package. It's practical, reliable and easy to drive, with good equipment for a budget car. And it's very cheap to buy and run. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
 |
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| 3 |
| Best Models |
| SE+ |
| Replacement |
| 2005 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| It's perhaps ironic that Daewoo's smallest and cheapest car has done so much to establish the Korean carmaker's position in the British market. But Matiz deserves its reputation as a well built, well designed and well equipped five-door city hatchback that can almost claim mini-MPV status. The space-efficient body accommodates five at a pinch; it's more comfortable for four, though rear legroom is tight for adults. It looks quite stylish and leaves little to be desired in SE+ form, offering central locking, electric front windows and optional air con. Driving is easy, with standard power steering, reasonable agility and a smooth ride. The original three-cylinder 800cc engine is acceptable around town but accelerates slowly and struggles at higher speeds; go for the peppier 1.0 litre from 2003 if funds permit. Reliability and warranty terms are good, overall running costs are low, and safety is reasonable for a small car. |
| Positive Points |
- Stylish, practical, inexpensive city car
- Quite nice to drive, nippy around town
- Cheap to own: low insurance, 45+ mpg
|
| Negative Points |
- Old 800cc engine soon runs out of steam
- Noisy and tiring out on the open road
- Rear accommodation is a bit restricted
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