1998 Chevrolet Metro...Continued

The Chevrolet Metro benefits from larger 13-inch tires. They were wise to make them standard across the line. The old 12" tires were good for mileage, but any savings were lost whenever new tires were needed. Since it was an uncommon size, it cost as much to get one Metro tire as a full set of other cars' tires.

The car is now built in a new plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada. The car is sold in Canada as the Swift and the Pontiac Firefly as well as under the Metro name. The coupe is offered for all lines, and the sedan is a GM-only product.

The previous Metro was produced at Suzuki Kosai, Japan, and that is one reason the XFI econo model and LSi convertible are no longer available.

The first Metro was a stalking horse to identify what features and attributes the buyers demanded and establish a competitive position in the U.S. market. The second Metro had a great deal of GM input, with a cost and fuel economy emphasis. This third Metro is GM project with GM supplying specifications and oversight of product development. Quality, reliability, durability, safety and comfort are now key criteria, but GM still wants to keep the traditional strengths of this segment of market. The interior and exterior design themes were done by GM in Warren, Michigan. This scheme allows GM/Suzuki to get to market much quicker.

Now that Chevrolet has established their own identity as a value and quality leader, they have dropped the Geo label. Henceforth, all Metros, Prizms and Trackers will be sold as Chevrolets, and the globe badge is gone.

The Metro Coupe LSi's size and zip makes it a great car for the city. While the wind will buffet you on the highway, trips to the lake or beach are well within the comfort zone of the young buyers. The base price is $9,455, but can increase to above $11,000 with options.

Chevrolet has priced their little coupe and sedan below that of any of the competitors. They include a full warranty, 24-hour road-side assistance and courtesy car (if the dealer participates). If a courtesy vehicle is not available Chevy will reimburse for other transportation or friend to pick up the customer.

The Metro emphasizes safety by accident avoidance and occupant protection measures. Chevrolet is leading the industry with daytime running lamps (DRL). With DRL, headlamps operate at reduced intensity, and there are no tail or parking lamps. These lights come on automatically when ignition is key is turned. All GM cars have had DRLs since '97.

They have incorporated ride and handling improvements and ABS brakes in the new Metro. There are front and rear sway bars plus the larger 13" tires. There is a steel safety cage construction, with front and rear crush zones. There are side door beams in all doors and cross members for side impact.

Chevrolet is wise to market the Metro on campuses since its thriftiness appeals to first time buyers. When I wrote reviews for magazines dedicated to doctors and CPAs, there was lots of interest in this class car by the readers who wanted something inexpensive and safe for their progeny. Metro is a good answer.