Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Wagon (2006-2009)

2006-2009 Chevrolet Optra Wagon

The Good: Load anything you want at the rear

The Bad: Engine is thirsty than other contemporaries

The Say: Buy this if you are after flexibility, not for driving fun.

Go For: 1.6 LS
Avoid: 1.6 SS

Price Range: P220,000-P390,000
Our Rating: **

Full Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Wagon (2006-2009)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2007
2008-2010

Vehicle Overview
Conceived during the time before Daewoo (yup, it is sold as the Daewoo Lacetti in South Korea) was purchased by General Motors, the Chevrolet Optra is marketed by a myriad of names in different markets across the globe. Locally, it replaced the sold selling Chevrolet Cassia, which is basically a Suzuki Esteem sedan in other parts of the world.

Unlike the sedan, the wagon is available with one engine option: a 1.6. This engine is capable on its own feet although the 1.6 is noisy when on idle. Handling is balanced but lacks feedback and this one feels at home during highway drives.

Going inside will reveal a cabin which fits four people comfortably but five is a squeeze plus a spacious trunk area comes as standard equipment. Good traits include numerous storage bins and controls that are within the reach of the driver.

What Should I Get
There is no need to look beyond the LS which packs the following amenities: a 112hp 1.6, all power features, trunk release, CD player, alloy wheels, alarm, keyless entry, immobilizer, ABS brakes, driver airbag, fog lamps and added in October 2007 include a passenger airbag, auxiliary jack, and steering wheel audio controls. A limited edition SS introduced in October 2006 is basically a LS that adds body kits.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Parts availability isn't a strength among Chevrolets, especially that this model will have you to wait for long if something goes wrong. Fuel consumption, for the first release models, is extremely poor which required the electronic control unit to be reprogrammed. Trouble parts for this vehicle include the alternator, transmission, and the fuel pump.