Web watch: we review what’s hot on the net

AT the start of this year an under-appreciated budget brand called Daewoo was taken over by a little known outfit (in the UK, at least) called Chevrolet.

The idea behind the swap was to create a globally-recognised brand for its parent company, General Motors.

Along with a new badge came a re-branded website which allows users to view the entire Chevrolet range – and in some detail.

The homepage is an effective, engaging introduction to the brand, describing each model on offer with a rotating image of the models. A top, horizontal menu with sub-sections helps navigation through the pages of the site.

Each model section works in exactly the same way. By hovering the mouse over a model name on the top menu, users will see a drop-down list where they can view an overview of individual trim levels.

A particular favourite function was the 360-degree exterior/interior camera view of the models: move your mouse to enjoy a ‘virtual walk’ around the cars. It’s a really good way of checking out what the car is like without having to get out of your chair and visit a showroom. Whilet viewing a particular model, users can click on the ‘experience’ link on the left of the page. This will allow them to look at interior and exterior photo galleries (users can also access this function in the ‘our models’ section).

Of course, other than the flashy parts of the site, users can view prices, performance and safety information for all of the models.

The site also includes a car comparator allowing users to pit other models, including Fiat, Ford, Kia and Suzuki, against Chevrolets.

Another feature which is good to see on the site is the car configurator. This allows the user to pick the model, colour, wheels, interior of choice and print out a specification list with it. This is another feature which gives the user something interactive to do and puts them in charge – which is always good.