Summary:
We paid 3 times the price of the Kadett, and got at least 5 times the car!
Faults:
My significant other and I went for a test drive on a Sunday. We signed the receipt after the ride.
On Monday, we TRIED to take the car home, but the battery had ceased all sorts of functioning.
Dealer wanted to check every possible cause on Tuesday, and the car was ready for pickup at noon.
We were lent a somewhat derelict Toyota Corolla for the time (although not as derelict as our Kadett).
General Comments:
The inside looks dark and somewhat gloomy, but FEELS roomy instead.
The power assisted steering was somewhat of a concern for me, as the Kadett had nothing of the sort. But to my surprise, it just made handling easier. Somehow, I don't miss the road-response I got from the straight steering.
The top speed seems a mite low for a 1.8i engine (about 170 km/h) compared to the Kadett with its 1.3N (normal) engine, delivering just up to 170 on a good day.
Acceleration is another matter. Everything goes smooth in this car (except for the gear change).
I've read something about 3000 rpm. before any significant liveliness is felt, and I must agree. Good push, though.
Also good, because we have a removable trailer hitch fitted. We might need the dragging power.
The gear change is QUITE hard, when the box is cold. It doesn't take long, however, for it to warm up.
I'd say a mile or two, and the shift is smooth as melted butter.
And now for the handling...
This feels like a bl**** Race Car to a newbie like me (3rd year of motoring).
I've taken her through turns at speeds that would make the Kadett squeal or even slide a bit, but not a sound from this one.
I'm actually looking forward to the cold season, for some really slippery roads, so I can try her out for real!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 6th December, 2004