Segment:
Compact City Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious urban commuters, first-time car buyers.
Key Competitors 2003:
Chevrolet Spark (rebadged Matiz in some markets), Hyundai Getz, Kia Picanto, Suzuki Alto, Ford Ka.
Design Philosophy:
Compact dimensions for urban maneuverability, fuel efficiency, affordable pricing.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Extremely compact footprint, distinctive rounded styling, surprisingly spacious interior for its size.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable for the model year)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive System, Drive Shafts, Axles
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brakes, ABS System (if equipped)
Suspension:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs
Steering:
Steering Column, Steering Gear, Power Steering System (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instruments, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Audio System, Power Windows (if equipped)
Body:
Body Exterior, Body Interior, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Tune-Ups
Repair:
Engine Component Repair, Transmission Servicing, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension and Steering Repairs, Electrical System Troubleshooting and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete Disassembly and Reassembly of Major Components and Systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics, Diagnostic Data
Depth:
Detailed, factory-level information suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Inline 3-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, SOHC
Displacement:
796 cc (0.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
68.5 mm x 72.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Horsepower:
52 PS (51 hp; 38 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approximate, may vary by market)
Torque:
72 Nm (53 lb-ft) @ 4600 rpm (approximate, may vary by market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
35 Liters (9.2 US Gallons)
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 Stars (for early models, safety features evolved)
ABS:
Optional on some trims
Traction Control:
Not typically available
Airbags:
Driver Airbag standard, Passenger Airbag optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts, Rear 3-point seatbelts (center lap belt).
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (24,000 - 36,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 (depending on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.2 Liters (3.4 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (if applicable)
Common Problems:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket, occasional issues with ignition coil packs, door lock actuators, and potential for rust in certain climates.
Preventative Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and top up fluids, inspect exhaust system for corrosion, maintain tire pressure for optimal fuel economy and handling.
Parent Company:
Daewoo Motor Company (South Korea), later acquired by General Motors.
First Generation:
Launched in 1997 (original Daewoo design).
Facelift 2003:
The 2003 model represents a significant update with revised styling (headlights, grille, bumpers), interior improvements, and minor mechanical revisions.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (main), with licensed production in other countries.
Global Presence:
Sold in many international markets under various brands (Daewoo, Chevrolet, Pontiac, etc.).
Safety Award Example:
While not winning major awards, its 3-star Euro NCAP rating was competitive for its class and time.
Fuel Economy Rating:
Highly praised for its excellent fuel efficiency, making it a very economical choice.
Emission Standards:
Meets prevailing emissions standards for its market introduction year.
