CHEVROLET OPTRA

Chevys new compact will comfortably seat five adults in an interior described by GM as "highly functional and visually attractive." Look for thoughtful extras such as a height adjustable drivers seat with lumbar support, a storage tray beneath the passenger seat and trunk access through a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Also standard is a deluxe gauge cluster featuring a tachometer and coolant temperature gauge.

Im always impressed when automakers take time to consider the little things, especially in lower-end models. GM has accomplished this by equipping the Optra with standard items as grocery bag hooks, seatback pockets, sunglasses holder, central storage deposit tray, an additional 12-volt outlet and a block heater to fend off cold winters.