DAEWOO'S new Nubira saloon goes on sale on July 31, with prices from just under £11,000 for the 1.6 SX model, and £12,000 for the 1.8 CDX.
A four-speed automatic is optional with the 1.8-litre model, adding £875.
The company is making a quantum leap in terms of quality, style and packaging with this latest incarnation of the Nubira, which is the creation of top Italian design studio, Pininfarina.
The sleek newcomer raises standards in the competitive medium family saloon sector, where spaciousness is an important factor. A genuine five-seater saloon, the new Nubira makes the ambitious claim of offering more room inside, and especially in the rear, than any of its rivals.
New from the ground up, it benefits from the engineering expertise of its giant General Motors parentage, whilst remaining distinctly Daewoo in appearance.
However, that is where any resemblance to its lack-lustre predecessor ends, with its more powerful new engines and myriad of safety features.
It comes with a choice of new 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre petrol engines driving the front wheels, with traction control as standard, and the four-speed automatic option for the larger unit. Additionally, there are anti-lock brakes, twin front and side air bags, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, and Isofix child seat anchorages.
Gone is the imprecision of the previous model's steering and suspension, with more responsive power steering and a sportier suspension set-up that is now in tune with more demanding European tastes.
The spacious interior is a class act too, with lavish use of quality materials, burr walnut mouldings for the fascia and doors, subtle use of metallic detailing for the centre console, and sports-style instrumentation.
With wheels right to the corners, housed beneath slightly flared arches, and a low-slung purposeful stance, the newcomer could even broaden its appeal to the lower echelons of the junior executive market.
With an output of 109bhp, the 1.6-litre engine is more powerful than that of Ford's rival 1.6-litre Focus, the cheapest saloon version of which is £12,495, with the Nubira boasting a higher top speed into the bargain.
The same is true of the 1.8-litre version, which is also a twin cam affair, and offers 122bhp in comparison to 113bhp in the case of the 1.8-litre Focus.
Now known as GM Daewoo, the revitalised company has launched two new models and a range of new engines within a very short space of time, with the new Nubira maintaining the momentum started by the Kalos supermini.
There is a new dealer network, and Daewoo's renowned three-year customer care programme of free service, warranty and AA recovery continues.
This new Nubira saloon is the first car of three to be based on the same platform, and will be followed by a five-door hatchback and estate versions soon.