Start mileage: 750
Current mileage: 1,500

Expect “subdued elegance and a touch of luxury” with the new Lacetti. That’s Chevrolet’s boast. Which is hardly an idle one. With a combined fuel economy of 40mpg, an exterior designed by Pininfarina and class-leading rear legroom, this new family middleweight is a cut above.

Although the Lacetti – AM’s latest long-termer – is in top CD spec, even the standard fit-list is generous with air-con, ABS, alloys, electric mirrors, central locking, metallic paint, a CD player, sat nav, leather seats, parking sensors and comprehensive airbags. The £11,995 price tag is also attractive. On the outside, the sharpened wedge shape body contours and smart alloys give the newcomer a modern Vauxhall-esque look. On the inside there’s been a good effort at a quality interior, with some nice looking dials, brushed ally detailing and leather. But is the walnut look interior panelling a touch too much? Maybe. But it certainly emphasises the company’s US heritage, and marks a clear shift from the original Daewoo design ethos.

Lacetti will be squaring up to the Kia Cerato and Mitsubishi Lancer; rivals that are both down on power and equipment levels compared with this contender. On paper at least, Chevrolet is onto a winner. Watch and see as we live and learn with it over the next three months.

Price:£11,995
Engine: 1799cc 16v 122bhp, 122lb-ft
Performance: 9.5 sec 0-62mph, 121mph top speed
Efficiency: 37.7 (combined)/183g/km CO2
Transmission: 5sp manual
Servicing: 10,000miles
Optional extras: Privacy glass, satellite navigation
CAP RV (3/30): £3,750 (32%)
Rivals: Kia Cerato, Mitsubushi Lancer, Suzuki Liana