GM hot rods: Chevy Aveo RS and Buick Regal GS (photos)

The original Aveo never garnered much praise, so Chevrolet is teasing the next version with this so-called show car. The Chevy Aveo RS is a hot hatchback based on the next-generation Chevy Aveo, which goes into production next year. Chevy points out that the headlights were inspired by motorcycle headlights, with an exposed barrel, and that the car retains the signature two-component Chevrolet grille.

The look is much more aggressive than the current Aveo. The rear wheels are set far back in the body, maximizing interior space. The rear door handles are hidden in the C-pillar, giving the car a refined look.

The Chevy Aveo RS is powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower, mated to a six-speed manual. The rear exhaust pipe is molded into the rear fascia for a more refined look.

The instrument cluster uses an analog tachometer next to an LCD with a digital readout for speed. The steering wheel has buttons for a Bluetooth phone system, and there is a USB port on the center stack, presumably for an iPod.

To highlight the recent launch of the newest Regal, Buick put together this hotted up version, the Regal GS, powered by a turbocharged 2-liter engine. That powerplant gives it a whopping 255 horsepower. The GS sports front bodywork not found on the standard Regal, with large vents for cooling and turbo air intake.

The Regal GS sits lower than the standard version, and uses all-wheel drive along with an electronic limited slip differential on the rear axle.

The GS gets to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. Buick includes a dial to switch between three different performance settings: normal, sport, and GS. Each setting changes the suspension, and throttle and steering response.

This shifter for the six-speed manual transmission remains unadorned, and the steering wheel has a racing style flat bottom. The GS sports standard Regal cabin electronics.