Experienced a triple-whammy recently in two of the three offerings by Daewoo in North America.

The only one missing from this manufacturer test-drive was Daewoo’s top-of-the-line Leganza, clearly our favorite of the three. The Lanos, a subcompact, is the manufacturer’s entry-level model, and Nubira, a compact, its mid-range model. The Lanos is a three-door hatchback-style vehicle, probably most useful for a get-around-town commuter. It’s small (wheelbase 99.2 inches), and sports a 1.6-liter, 16-valve DOHC, 4-cylinder engine. The engine’s output is by no means, sensational, revving up barely enough to keep moving. Affordability is the buzz word for the Lanos, nothing more.

Daewoo boasts Lanos’ “easy-to-repair body,” screw-fastened body parts. Unfortunately, this may not always mean fit and finish to brag about, or a solid feeling. We liked the Lanos better the first time around. The 3-door we drove recently creaked and squeaked in a couple of places. When turning left, we could hear something rattling, although when walking around the car we couldn’t detect anything loose.

The Lanos is available in the 3-door hatchback series, with S and SE models. Daewoo has eliminated the SX model for 2000. The Lanos 4-door sedan comes in the S and SX models, but no longer offers the SE. In the sedan, the S model starts at $9,449, and the SX at $11,719. MSRP for the 3-door hatchback starts at a very reasonable $8,669 for the S, and $10,200 for the SE.

Our test 3-door Lanos SE’s total vehicle price was $11,790, including three options (carpeted floor mats, $60, ABS, $500, A/C, $700). Destination, $330. The Lanos hatchback comes with such standard equipment as dual airbags, power front windows, power locks, dual outside mirrors (one remote, one manual), dual vanity mirrors, cupholder, digital clock, rear window defroster and wiper/washer, rear spoiler, tinted windows, splash guards and 14-inch tires. The spare is a space-saver tire. On the inside, Lanos sports a 100-watt stereo with cassette, reclining front seats and 60/50 split fold-down rear seat. The fuel tank is 12.7 gallons and the 12-volt battery maintenance-free.

All controls are within fairly easy reach, although the knobs for the radio are on the small side. The stereo’s sound is decent, and the vehicle, although not without rattles, is quieter than might be expected. What amazed family and friends with the Lanos hatchback was its capacity to haul larger-than-expected items. I picked up a chair at my parents and much to their disbelief, slid it inside the hatchback, with room to spare. The hatch closed without a problem and cargo that couldn’t be transported in a larger sedan, found its way over to my place inside Lanos’ 8.8 inches of cargo space. This we chuckled at.

Nubira CDX Wagon and Sedan

We drove the Nubira Wagon first, and liked it. An improvement over the subcompact Lanos. The total vehicle price for our test Wagon was $15,355 (MSRP $14,960), and is one of two Nubira models offered for 2000; the hatchback having been eliminated. The Wagon is available in SE and fully-loaded CDX models. The CDX model comes equipped with such extras as ABS, power windows/locks and mirrors, tilt steering column, remote keyless entry, car alarm and fog lamps. Leather seating is optional on the CDX.

Our sedan Nubira was the SE model, with a MSRP of $10,990. Air conditioning ($700) and a Convenience Package (power windows/locks, security, anti-theft system, remote keyless entry, tilt steering column, power remote outside mirrors, fog lights, $560) are available, and did come in our test vehicle. It would seem that opting for the CDX model would make more sense.

Both the Wagon and Sedan are pleasing to drive and get around without effort. The engine in both test cars was the 2.0-liter , 4-cylinder, DOHC D-TEC. Due to a six-layer noise absorbing bulkhead, the engine is quiet and smooth, and accelerates without too much difficulty. All Nubiras are certified as Low Emission Vehicles (LEV), meeting California Emission Standards.

For 2000, Daewoo has increased the Nubira’s overhang, making it safer during a crash. A new rear stabilizer bar and firmer coil springs have been added to improve handling. On the inside, drivers will find restyled door panels with new trim, and a moderate repositioning of the armrest and door handles for a more comfortable sitting. The seating has been redesigned with new fabric, adjustable headrests and reinforced side supports. Passengers riding in the rear will welcome the center armrest and separate headrests for comfort. Legroom is adequate for most passengers, and if you’re looking to tote something longer than trunk size, you can drop the 60/40 split fold-down seat.

For 2000, all Daewoo models come with 24-hour roadside assistance and a 3 year/36,000-mile warranty. According to Daewoo, the Nubira Wagon ranked number two for overall best value in the Automobile Club of Southern California’s 1999 Target Car Report.