Daewoo Matiz Hatchback Review

The 800cc three-cylinder engine is willing, despite having just 51bhp, and has a pleasing note when revved. It’s nippy within city limits, but out of town it gets wheezy and struggles on the motorway. The 63bhp 1.0-litre has more power and pull, so it’s always brisker and less strained on the motorway.

At any speed, the Matiz’s ride is well controlled, although the small wheels crash into, rather than over, potholes. Power steering is light, making parking a cinch, helped by a good turning circle. Town speeds do not challenge the handling, but faster roads will see the front end run wide.

The three-cylinder’s thrummy engine note isn’t unpleasant, but becomes tiring on fast roads. The four-cylinder engine is quieter at all times and, although harsh when extended, it’s not thrashy at motorway speed. Wind noise is a problem at speed, however, while the tyres kick up a steady din, even on smooth surfaces.