With mounting competition in the subcompact car sector, Chevrolet is looking to give its popular value-priced Aveo model a major makeover, equipping it with a bolder design and more powerful engine.

The new Aveo RS show car will be unveiled by Chevrolet at the Detroit auto show, scheduled for next week, and the new vehicle is meant to hint at the new, European-inspired design and styling of the 2011 Aveo, which is all set to go on sale starting next year.

For the new look, the company has lowered the grille and given the show vehicle 19-inch tires for a more tough appearance. The Aveo is actually a four-door car, but the rear-door handles are almost hidden, which gives the car a "zippier look of a three-door hatchback".

The new show vehicle will be fitted with the same 38-horsepower, 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine which adorns the Chevrolet Cruze, all set to go on sale later during the year, and boasts a mileage of
40 miles per gallon.

In addition to the stylish Aveo, the company will also be showcasing its Spark minicar at the Detroit show.