SOME cars have makeovers - others have transformations.
The new Daewoo Nubira falls most definitely into the later category.
I drove the old version and remember being distinctly non-plussed. It was a typical average-type car for a Mr Average middle-aged man - dull and characterless.
But not anymore. The new Nubira is the latest example of born-again GM Daewoo's philosophy - Italian styling combined with efficient, reliable Korean engineering, resulting in excellent value for money.
Its looks are simple, yet striking. It is undoubtedly solid and practical and has impressive interior space. Ideal, in fact, for families like mine.
In fact, the insterior of the Nubira is the most roomy in its class. This is because, at 4,500mm, the car significantly exceeds the average length of a compact saloon, and with a wheelbase of 2,600mm, it maximises interior space, particularly for back seat passengers.
I particularly liked the silver ring design on the instrument panels and the metal inserts on the spokes of the steering wheel, which bring a touch of sportiness and youth to the vehicle.
And talking of youth, my 11-year-old daughter - never slow to offer her opinion and far more in the know about fashion than me - leaped into the vehicle and gave an instant judgement. "Cool," she said. "I like it. There's a lot of space and it looks good."
Doubtless GM Daewoo will breath a sigh of relief at apparently winning over someone so young. But she's right. Unlike a lot of other similar vehicles in its segment, the Nubira is fresh and doesn't have that turn-off, middle-aged feel.
The Nubira saloon is GM Daewoo's second all new car since it was formed almost 12 months ago and comes in a two model range at the moment. It is aimed at emphasising comfort and safety, high levels of specification and value for money.
The 1.6 SX model is priced at just under £11,000 while the 1.8 CDX flagship is nearly £12,000. To follow later will be a five-door hatchback and a station wagon, although no dates have been set yet for their debuts.
Packaged with Daewoo's industry leading three-year customer care Peace of Mind programme of free service, warranty and AA recovery, it will make an tempting alternative in a crowded section.
The newcomer's clean cut lines were styled by the renowned Italian specialists Pininfarina.
And while this front wheel drive compact family saloon shares the same name as its predecessor, it is new from the ground up, and developed with safety and comfort as its key design features.
The Nubira now complements the rest of the GM Daewoo line-up of the Matiz, Kalos and Tacuma. It stems from fresh thinking in the new company. It believes typical Nubira customers are not looking for the cheapest car in the sector but one that offers all round exceptional value. The 'smart shopper' term applied to customers who buy the Daewoo Kalos supermini, can equally be applied to the Nubira.
It also feels that the new Nubira will appeal to business users, particularly those who opt into 'cash for cars' company car schemes.
There is plenty of power under the bonnet and no significant pause if the accelerator is pushed to the floor.
To ensure the Nubira delivers excellent all-weather, all-surface performance, the 1.8 CDX is fitted as standard with a traction control system which gives the vehicle enhanced traction when needed. It detects any slip of tyres that may occur and helps prevent the vehicle from slipping.
FAST FACTS
Daewoo Nubira 1.8 CDX Auto
Price: £12,870
Mechanical: 121bhp, 1,799cc 4 cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-spd automatic transmission
Max speed: 114mph
0-62mph: 10.7 secs
Combined mpg: 31
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 218g/km
BiK rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust