Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.2

Sail Hatchback 1.2 Review

Chevrolet India has silently introduced the refurbished version of its premium hatchback model Sail in the country. The changes are mostly regarding the interiors and exteriors, while the technical specifications remains to be unchanged. It is currently available in several trim levels among which, the Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.2 is the entry level variant. It is equipped with a 1.2-litre SMARTECH petrol engine, which is capable of producing a maximum power of 82.5bhp and a peak torque output of 108.5Nm. This entry level hatchback gets a new beige and black interior color scheme along with a revised three spoke steering wheel. Furthermore, its instrument cluster is now bestowed with an icy blue illumination, which adds to its elegance. However, there are no updates given to its exteriors, as it is the base trim. The car maker is offering several important features like a proficient AC unit with heater, power steering with tilt adjustment and an accessory power socket. On the other hand, it is also bestowed with a few crucial protective aspects like 3-point seat belts for front seats, high mount third brake light and side impact beams. It is placed in the premium hatchback segment, where it will challenge the likes of Honda Brio, Maruti Swift, Ford Figo and Toyota Etios Liva.

Exteriors:

This variant did not receive any updates to its exteriors. Its front facade is fitted with a large dual-port radiator grille that has a thick chrome surround and perforated mesh. Surrounding this is the hawk-wing shaped headlight cluster, which gives an aggressive stance to the front profile. The body colored front bumper has a wide air dam and a provision for incorporating fog lamps. The overall look of the front is complimented by the gold plated company's emblem affixed on the grille. The rear profile is also quite attractive where it has a large windscreen and a small tailgate. The taillight cluster is placed on the C pillar, which is powered by high intensity brake light, courtesy lamp and turn indicator. The license plate console is given on the rear bumper, which is accompanied by a pair of reflectors. This hatchback has a stylish side profile with beautifully crafted window frame and expressive lines. This entry level trim is blessed with a set of 14-inch steel wheels, which are further covered with tubeless radial tyres. It also has conventional features like black colored external wing mirrors, door handles and B pillars.

Interiors:

This Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.2 trim gets a refined interior cabin owing to the new beige and black color scheme. In addition to this, there are a few changes made to the dashboard and to the steering wheel. The instrument cluster has two round shaped meters, which now has icy blue colored illumination. The steering wheel has the same old design, but is now treated in black color and decorated with a prominent Chevrolet logo. On the other hand, the ergonomically designed seats have been covered with an improved quality fabric upholstery, which gives a brand new look to the cabin. Although, it is the base variant, it gets chrome embellishments on AC vent surround parking lever tip and on center stack, which further adds to its elegance. The main highlight of the cabin is its ample head, shoulder and head space, which can provide comfortable traveling experience to at least five passengers. This hatchback has a huge 248-litre boot compartment, which can be extended further by folding the rear bench seat in 60:40 split ratio.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is equipped with a 1.2-litre SMARTECH petrol engine that has multi-point fuel injection technology. It comprises of 4-cylinders and 16-valves based on double overhead camshaft valve configuration. It has a displacement capacity of 1199cc, which allows it to belt out 82.5bhp of maximum power at 6000rpm and generates 108.5Nm at just 5000rpm. It is skilfully paired with a five speed manual transmission gearbox, which delivers the torque output to the front wheels. The automaker claims that the vehicle can deliver a minimum mileage of 15 kmpl on city roads, which goes up to a maximum of 18.2 Kmpl on highways.

Braking and Handling:

This entry level trim is bestowed with a robust suspension system in the form of McPherson Strut on its front axle and twist axle suspension on its rear one. In addition to this, both the axles are further loaded with twin tube gas filled shock absorbers, which adds to the drive comfort. This hatchback is also integrated with a power assisted steering system that provides excellent response and supports a minimum turning radius of just 5.15-meters. As far as its braking is concerned, its front wheels are mated with sturdy discs and the rear ones are coupled with solid drum brakes, which works fine in any road condition.

Comfort Features:

This Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.2 is the base variant, which is equipped with several important comfort features. It has a slightly modified instrument cluster featuring a digital tachometer, trip-meter, speedometer and a fuel gauge. The dashboard houses a powerful air conditioning system including a heater, which regulates the air temperature inside. Its rear cabin has a bench seat featuring flex flat folding and 60:40 split folding facility, which adds to the convenience . In addition to these, this trim has tilt adjustable power steering, front power windows, an inside rear view mirror with day and night effect, height adjustable headrests and remote operation for fuel flap and tailgate. Apart from these, it has passenger's side sun visor with vanity mirror, luggage compartment lamp, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, drink holders and door map pockets.

Safety Features:

The car maker has built this hatchback with a safe cage body structure, which ensures maximized protection with its crumple zones and impact beams. This trim has a few protective features like 3-point ELR seatbelts, centrally located high mount third brake light, driver's seatbelt reminder, dual horn, child safety locks at rea r. In addition to these, this variant is also integrated with an advanced engine immobilizer system, which safeguards the vehicle from theft.

Pros:

1. Refreshing interior color scheme new features.

2. Initial cost of ownership is quite affordable.

Cons:

1. More comfort features can be added.

2. Cost of maintenance is slightly higher.