Chevrolet Sail Hatchback

Summary

The Chevrolet Sail hatchback, launched in 2010, received its first minor facelift in 2014. The updated model received some exterior and interior changes, but still looks very similar to the old model. On the exterior, the hatchback features new headlamps, chromed fog lamps, new alloys design, blacked out B-pillar, new tail lamp and modified boot lip with a chromed strip. The interior, too, received minor changes. It gets dashboard with dual-tone black and beige finish, all-black steering with golden shade and door handles and chrome surrounded AC vents and gear knob and new 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. There are no mechanical changes made to the car as it continues to feature the same 84.8bhp, 1.2-litre petrol and 76.9bhp, 1.3-litre diesel engines, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It’s one of the most frugal Chevrolet cars in India. It delivers strong performance, handling and drivability. The ride quality is impressive, too.

Exterior

Despite receiving some styling updates, the new hatchback doesn’t look any different from the old model. The design is still conventional and outdated. The new model features modified headlamps and chromed fog lamps at the front end, while the new alloys design and blacked out B-pillar mark a difference to its side profile. The rear end gets new tail lamp and revised boot lip with a chromed strip.

Interior

The interior gets some substantial changes, but still looks quite similar to the old one. However, the dashboard with dual-tone black and beige finish, all-black steering with golden shade and door handles and chrome surrounded AC vents and gear knob enhance its interior appearance. The plastic quality is improved, but isn’t up to the mark. It gets new 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Unlike most Chevrolet car models, it lacks some essential features such as multi-information display, climate control and steering mounted audio system.

Engine and Transmission

The new model is available with the same engine options - a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.3-litre diesel - that powered the old model. The 1.3-litre diesel engine develops a maximum power of 76.9bhp at 4000rpm with a peak torque of 205Nm at 1750rpm. The 1.2-litre, SMARTECH petrol engine produces a maximum power of 84.8bhp at 6000rpm, while yielding a peak torque of 113Nm at 5000rpm. Both the engines are coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Performance and Handling

Both the engines are refined. However, the diesel motor is faster than the petrol unit. Mid range performance is strong. The power supply is linear and in-gear acceleration is good. The gasoline engine is apt for both city and highway driving purpose. The poor steering feedback spoils its handling, though; the high speed stability is impressive. The hatchback is one of the best enty-level Chevrolet cars in India in terms of comfort and ride quality.

Braking System

The front disc brakes and rear drum brakes are quick and well calibrated. The ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), offered only on top-model, further ensures safe drive.

Mileage

The 1248 cc Diesel - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 20 kmpl in city and 22 kmpl on highways, while the Petrol variant offers a mileage of 16 kmpl on urban roads and 18 kmpl on freeways, respectively.

Safety Features

Like most Chevrolet car models, the hatchback offers several safety features such as the rear seat child-protection door locks, side impact front and rear door beam, 3 Point ELR front seat belts, dual horn, key In reminder, centrally located high mounted stop lamp and engine immobilizer. Features like ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), driver and passenger airbags, speed sensitive door auto lock and front seatbelts with pre tensioners and load limiter are available only with the top-end model.

Verdict

The Sail hatchback is one of the most comfortable, frugal and practical Chevrolet cars in India. It drives well, and offers great performance. However, the conventional exterior and interior might turn-off some buyers.

Competition

Maruti Suzuki Swift Vs Chevrolet Sail hatchback

Chevrolet’s Sail hatchback is a decent family car with spacious cabin and impressive ride quality. The engines deliver strong performance both in the city and on highways. However, the exterior and interior design and plastic quality are major let downs.

On the other side, the Maruti Suzuki Swift looks sportier and more appealing than its rival. It has got strong performance, higher fuel efficiency and better handling. The interior, too, is loaded with plenty of comfort-enhancing and safety features.

Pros

1. Cabin space
2. Engine performance
3. Ride quality

Cons

1. Exterior styling and interior design
2. Material quality
3. Steering feedback

Awards

1. Compact car of the Year - 2013 - Bloomberg TV Autocar India Awards
2. Hatchback of the Year - 2013 - Car India & Bike India