1999 Daewoo Matiz SE Plus A/C review from UK and Ireland

Interior dash not secured after a radio upgrade at delivery.

Both side repeaters filled with water at 2000 miles.

Rear end rattle caused by the exhaust, fixed at 6000 miles.

Problem with the tyre mix after the 20000 mile service. All tyres replaced at 25000 miles to eradicate the problem.

Both number plate lights were blown at 22000 miles miles.

After owning a Golf for many years, my Matiz was bought for commuting. Although the engine is small, the performance is adequate and long trips are also performed.

The handling is incredible and brings back memories of the first Mini. Truly great fun whilst hacking through the country lanes.

After 27000 the engine is fully run in and is now more economic than before. The latest return was 48 mile per gallon, which at today's prices make a difference to the monthly outgoings.

Oil consumption is currently 300 ml in 6600 miles. Daewoo will, if approached, top up for free.

Tyres were changed during the 20000 mile service. Just worn to the legal limit. The replacements were Kumho and were put on the front wheels. This caused a dramatic change in the handling and despite going back to Daewoo and complaining to the head office about the apparent different handling with a manufacturer mix front and rear, no action was forthcoming. A visit to the Kumho web page showed that the tyres fitted were no longer in the product list and an e-mail to Kumho produced a surprise result. By return, a new set of tyres were dispatched to replace the ones fitted and with an additional pair the Matiz now runs on Kumho tyres. The handling is now back to its original confidence inspiring feel and I am again happy.

The alloy road wheels haven't retained their lustre very well and the surface is peeling on all four. Daewoo will be approached on this matter at 30000 miles.

The full size spare for some reason has a speed restriction on it. Anyone know why?