AT a time when the whole of the country is watching its pennies, consumers are more aware of how much they’re spending than ever before.

And when it comes to new cars, it appears that value for money is king – in April, Chevrolet saw its overall sales increase by 17.84 per cent compared to the same month in 2008.

Chevrolet managing director Mark Terry said:“It seems that right now, everybody is thinking about what they’re spending their money on, and when it comes to major purchases they’re adopting a more rational approach.

“If they’re buying a car they’re looking at the one that gives them the most for their money, no matter how much they’ve got to spend, and that’s when they realise just how much value for money there is if they choose a Chevrolet.”

Certainly, value without compromise is very much core to the Chevrolet brand. Both the Matiz and the Aveo put in impressive showroom performances, while the Captiva SUV, pictured, exceeded expectations. “With Captiva, we’ve seen customers trading in much more expensive types of vehicle,” added Mr Terry.

“We’ve seen BMW X5s, Land Rover Discoverys and even several executive saloon cars traded in against Captivas, as customers realise they can still buy a luxuriously equipped vehicle with an impressive name and a bold heritage, but at a great value price.”

The Government’s scrappage scheme starting Monday provides a further boost for Chevrolet, as it means that the Matiz will be on offer at participating retailers from only £4,295 to customers trading in a car more than ten years old, making it one of the cheapest new cars in Britain.

The sales boost comes as Chevrolet prepares for the launch of the all-new Cruze family saloon, which arrives in UK showrooms this summer, delivering the brand’s trademark high value with new sharp styling and dynamics.