A FRIEND'S daughter, who has a couple of small children, recently asked what would be the best small car for her.
I told her any that she liked to drive, and that had full service history and five doors. Why five doors? Because it’s back-breaking getting little ones in and out of the back seat without them.
One of my recommendations was the Chevrolet Matiz and she’s delighted with the one she bought.
Some cars in the class are so small you couldn’t even shoehorn kids into the back but this one manages enough rear legroom for adults.
It’s also good value for money, with high specification compared to some other city cars and very reasonable second-hand prices.
Engines are either three cylinder 800cc or four cylinder 1.0-litre, and performance is decent in either.
The five speed gearchange is slick and the clutch is light. Handling is safe and sure, comfort is good and the level of equipment makes some competitors look very spartan.
Interior
All have twin airbags, 60/40 split fold rear seat, RDS radio cassette or CD and power steering. SE+ adds better audio, alloy wheels, electric windows and central locking.
FAST FACTS
Chevrolet Matiz
Price: Pay about £2,500 for an ’06 06-reg SE, £3,800 for an ’09 09-reg SE+
Mechanical: 65bhp, 995cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 97mph
0-62mph: 13.6 seconds
Combined mpg: 50
Insurance group: 2
CO2 emissions: 137g/km
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Hyundai i10