GM Daewoo's new Kalos five-door family hatchback range is given a significant boost with the addition of two new engines to the line up.
A sprightly and efficient new 1.2 litre four-cylinder joins the range at entry level in the Kalos 1.2S and SE and a 16-valve version of the existing 1.4 litre engine developing 94Ps provides the range flagship, the sporting 1.4SX 16v.
Along with the existing 1.4 8-valve SE and SX models, the Kalos range now extends to five derivatives each offering a wide range of standard features including twin front airbags, three point seat belts at all five positions, power-assisted steering, ABS and central door locking.
Featuring an alloy cylinder head and cast iron block, the new 1.2 litre engine develops 72Ps and 104Nm of torque. With lively performance reaching 62mph in 13.7 seconds and a top speed of 98mph and excellent fuel economy 42.8 mpg on the combined cycle the new S and SE models should be an efficient purchase.
The Kalos S is £7,495 and the SE £7,795. The new entry-level S model includes driver/passenger airbags, ABS, power assisted steering and central door locking while the SE adds side airbags, keyless entry system, heated door mirrors with electric operation of the passenger door mirror and a tachometer.
The new Kalos 1.4SX 16-valve develops 94Ps and 130Nm of torque versus 83Ps and 123Nm of the 1.4 litre 8-valve version. These significant increases result in a sportier drive with lively through-the-gears performance, yet little sacrifice in fuel consumption with 40.4mpg (37.2 auto) on the combined cycle.
For the first time in the Kalos range, a four-speed automatic transmission is available.
The top of the range 1.4SX 16-valve features the already comprehensive list on the SE, plus air-conditioning, 14-inch alloy road wheels, a rear roof spoiler, front fog lamps, power rear windows, metallic grain finish on facia, fabric door trim inserts and driver's seat back picnic table, all for £8,995.
With the launch of GM Daewoo UK came an all-new Customer Assist-ance Centre. Call 0800 666222 for everything from product details to the location of local distributors.
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