Chevrolet Sail UV-A Review

Chevrolet Sail UVA Hatchback unveiled 

25 October, 2012 : The hottest surprise from General Motors after lately launch of New Chevrolet Spark today is the unveiling of awaited Chevrolet Sail UVA hatchback on the official website. The bookings have begun online for the test drive and the interested Sail enthusiasts can experience the same at their nearest Chevrolet Showroom. To intensify the heat company has also released an online teaser on social networking sites. Furthermore, the feature list is expected to be long, as the website suggests, alongside in the specs parts there is confirmation of 1.2L petrol and 1.3 diesel engines that will rule the inside of the bonnet. 

Moreover the decisive role will be played by Chevrolet Sail UVA price that is expected to fall around INR 4.50-5.50 Lakh, giving its rivals Maruti Swift and Hyundai i20 run for the money.            

 

Chevrolet Sail UVA Price

The polished looking Chevrolet Sail hatchback, expecting a Diwali-2012 launch, will be fighting for space with the best sellers like Maruti Swift, Hyundai i10 and Ford Figo. Hence, if priced right there will be no looking back for General Motors (GM) in India as they did it in the past with Chevrolet Beat hatch. Here considering the competitive crowd the Chevrolet Sail hatchback price will fall around INR 4.50-5.50 Lakh.

Chevrolet Sail UVA Review by Expert

At the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo, one of the most promising unveiling was of Chevrolet Sail hatchback. The development of this hatchback from century old American carmaker General Motors (GM) comes with a mission, and that is to take the global emerging markets, like India, by a ripple with a world class product. Prior to the display, the GM Technical Center engineers at Bangalore have spent more than a year in deciding the apt platform for the Chevrolet Sail hatchback that suits best to the Indian conditions and present day consumer needs and requirements.

These days the car is seen doing many rounds of rigorous testing nearby its manufacturing facilities, as there are all chances that the Chevrolet Sail hatch will hit the showrooms this Diwali’2012. Previously, there were also speculations that GM will also launch the sedan version of Sail side-by-side, but as per recent reports the sibling will break cover either by year-end or early 2013 in India.

The launch of Chevrolet Sail hatchback and sedan in India will ensure the pack-up of Chevrolet Aveo hatch and sedan from the country due to their extremely sluggish sales performance ever since more than a year. As per some official reports the Sail hatch will be christened as ‘Chevrolet U-VA Sail’ when it is officially launched in India. The large size hatchback will be seen fighting for space with rivals like Maruti Swift, Ford Figo, Hyundai i20 and Toyota Etios Liva. The price of this New Chevy hatch will be very aggressive alongside being fuel efficient and large space provider.

In order to battle with potent contenders in the segment the front of Sail hatch comes with inspiration of Chevrolet Cruze saloon with its sporty exteriors. The overall outer surface of the vehicle looks bigger with expectation of large room inside the cabin. The wide front grille is now signature Chevy, with bigger golden-bowtie that divides the honey-comb radiator grille. From the sides and rear it all appears premium compared to other segment cars. The cabin feel in the Chevrolet Sail hatchback is spacious, bright and fresh.

There are number of handy aspects available for the driver as well as for the occupants. Being a family car the space inside the Sail U-VA is enough to carry 5 adults with comfortable ease. The dashboard and instrument panel has a sort of sporty design along with eye gazing central console that holds an elegant design with entertaining features like audio CD player, radio, aux-in and USB interface. Moreover, the classy looking steering wheels with mounted controls provide a trendy sight. With its tall dimensions there is no concern when it comes to head room and leg room for the occupants; moreover there is large size boot for hefty luggage and belongings. Apart from larger boot, the interior features are expected to be kept similar when it comes to Chevrolet Sail sedan.

The Chevrolet Sail hatchback was earlier expected to arrive with only choice of petrol engine under its hood, while diesel was supposed to follow next. But sighting the current trend and demand of diesel motor, the company decided to roll out diesel as well as petrol versions at one shot. The petrol model will carry a 1.4L engine under the bonnet, whereas a 1.3L diesel engine developed in alliance with Fiat will be seen bolstering the image of Chevrolet Sail diesel. Both these engines will outpour exceptional power and performance besides class leading fuel efficiency in order to stay pumped up in the crowded competition.

 

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

The promising volume seller from American auto giant will certainly be targeting this section to lure Indian car-buyers as it earlier did with Chevrolet Beat. Initially the Chevrolet Sailhatchback or Chevrolet Sail U-VA will be offered with a 1.2L petrol motor under hood that will be able to give out a very decent mileage of 15 kmpl in city traffic, while an improved 19 kmpl is expected on the highways. After the successful launch of petrol version, GM will uncover the 1.3L Multijet Chevrolet Sail hatchback diesel engine that is estimated to deliver a happy mileage of nearly 17 kmpl and 22 kmpl in city and highway respectively.  

 

 

Engine Type	Mileage (City)	Mileage (Highway)
Chevrolet Sail U-VA  1.2L Petrol	15 kmpl	19 kmpl
Chevrolet Sail U-VA  1.3L Diesel	17 kmpl	22 kmpl

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Models and Features

Variants	Features
Chevrolet Sail 1.2L LS	The features in this model are expected to comprise of plush beige seat upholstery, fabric inserts on door trims, cup holders for front and rear along with dual storage dashboard. Some other aspects will be power steering, modern HVAC system, internally adjustable ORVMs, low fuel warning lamp and digital clock together with day and night rear view mirror. Rear child locks and door open warning will be offered as safety element.
Chevrolet Sail 1.2L LT	The top model will boast all the features of the base version alongside it will carry some important characteristics like carbon-fiber finishing on door trims, power window bezels and plush looking leather wrapped steering wheel that has Chevy badge. Others incorporations that are expected to make way will be rear armrest for occupants at the back, 2-DIN audio player with CD/MP3/ Aux-in/USB and adjustable driver seat height. Some convenient aspects will be foldable rear seat with 60:40 split, rear parcel tray and tilt steering column.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Engine, Power and Performance

The General Motors will probably do a Maruti here, by launching petrol and diesel models of Chevrolet Sail hatchback at one go. The hood of petrol model is projected to have a 1.2L engine resting; this is the same motor that Chevrolet Beat currently holds. It provides a maximum power output of 82 PS along with peak torque of 108 Nm.  In this Chevrolet Sail hatchback a 5-speed manual gearbox will be responsible for providing smooth gear shift. The other available choice will be 1.3L multi jet diesel power-mill that will smoke out a possible maximum power of 94 PS along with a maximum torque of 130 Nm. Here also, the services of 5-speed manual transmission will be obtained. The power and torque numbers of these two variants of Chevrolet Sail hatchback are bound to get revision in upward direction in order to contend with some supreme rivals in the crowded segment and make the ride sportier.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Pick Up and Acceleration

The Chevrolet Sail Hatchback is expected to offer slightly quicker acceleration than the present Chevrolet Aveo U-VA in the lineup. Offered with two reliable engine alternatives of 1.2L petrol engine and 1.3L diesel power train it will surely offer reasonable numbers when accelerated. The 1.2L petrol version that outpours 82 PS and 108 Nm of power and torque respectively is capable to achieve a top speed of 145 kmph. Furthermore, the 100 kph mark from being stationary is obtained in just about 14 seconds. On the other hand, the frugal 1.3L diesel engine; which also rests under hood of sedan version, outpours 90 PS of max power and a peak torque of 130 Nm. This power train is expected to catch the 100 kph from nothing in about 16 seconds. In addition the top speed of Chevrolet Sail Hatchback will be quite impressive at 150 kmph. What is more, some tweaks in the engine compartment to enhance the Chevrolet Sail hatchback pickup will be welcomed by the Chevy enthusiast in the country and also help this hatch create an edge above the competitors.

 

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Pickup and Acceleration
Engine Variants	Power (PS/ RPM)	Torque (NM/ RPM)	Acceleration (0-100kph)	Top Speed (Km/ h)	Transmission
Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.2L Petrol	82/ 6200	108/ 4400	14 seconds	145	5-Speed Manual
Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 1.3L Diesel	90/4000	130/ 1750-2000	16 seconds	150	5-Speed Manual

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Interiors and Features

General Motors new hatchback, Chevrolet Sail has to fight with some very good and established players in the jam-packed segment.  And to outwit them it has to be perform competitively in every aspect, and here class leading interiors of Chevrolet Sail hatchback could be the key differentiator. Recently some spy images of Chevrolet Sail hatch interiors were doing rounds, and here are the findings. Firstly, the hatchback with its proper dimensions outside, give a feel that there is abundant of space inside, and once you peep into the cabin and it is proved right.

There is sufficient head room, leg room and shoulder room, moreover there is ample room to seat 5 individuals with comfort. In the front row the quality of plastic seem satisfactory alongside quality of materials all around including the seats was good enough considering the fact that Chevrolet Sail hatchback is a mass segment product. With grey-beige theme upholstery in place, cabin looks airy. The presence of chrome tipped angular door handles and chrome inserted handbrake lever the compartment gets a premium feel. When compared ‘glitzy-n- fragile’ looking Chevy Beat interiors, Chevrolet Sail hatchback’s inside looks pretty simple yet long-lasting. The dashboard is kept neat, whereas central console has customary rectangular air vents and spherical ones at corners.

Just below is modern audio system that will play radio/CD/MP3 that supports aux-in and USB. Though there is no climate control but AC will be quite good. There are large storage for coins, wallet and other accessories on the floor console. Move to the steering, which is tilt adjustable and has no integrated audio controls and no chrome inserts. Well, that might be made available with the top end diesel variant. The instrument cluster of Chevrolet Sail hatchback is amazingly impressive with clear and large central speedometer surrounded by clear digital readouts. Furthermore, for convenience there are chances that the rear will have a 60:40 split seat in order to increase the luggage space.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Exteriors and Features

When it comes to exploring exteriors of Chevrolet Sail Hatchback, you can sense detailing and experience of General Motors (GM) in manufacturing cars particularly aimed at emerging markets. There is one truth, which cannot be hidden, and that is, this apt size hatch is a mass-segment vehicle that will be seen competing with stalwart segment rulers. Hence, you cannot expect premiumness spilling all over Chevrolet Sail Hatchback alongside loads of flashy chrome and silver integrations, but rather uniquely designed humble yet convinced vehicle. In short, General Motors won’t play that ‘safe’ or say ‘simple’ as they did with box office dud Aveo U-VA hatch.

The Chevrolet Sail hatchback has got impressive fascia that looks generations ahead of Aveo. The headlamps are quite catchy as they show-off inspirations from Chevrolet Cruze, besides curves providing a Toyota Camry glimpse. Although bonnet seems a bit flat with some visible lines flowing towards radiator grille. Between pair of head lamps lies the attention-grabbing front grille, all credits to GM’s new design ideology, which has bigger Chevy insignia placed on the body color slat that cuts grille into two. Below grille of Chevrolet Sail hatchback, there is wide bumper with integrated fog lights and decent sized air vents.

When gazed from sides, you feel a cab-forward design coming into picture, sighting fluidic-sort aerodynamic roof line flowing in advance direction. The wheel arches of Chevrolet Sail Hatchback are simple and styled cleverly ensuring a bit of athletic sense. Moreover the blacked B-pillar, solid-looking alloys, body colored door handles along with ORVMs integrated with turn indicators proffer a pleasing image. Additionally there are chances that Chevrolet Sail hatchback India-model might get an elite electric ‘Sunroof’. The rear of Chevrolet Sail Hatchback is though distinct, but shares similarities with Fiat Punto hatchback. The vertically stacked tail lamps are bigger and positioned at same height as seen in Fiat hatch. The tail gate opening is kept neat with golden bowtie placed just below rear wind-screen; moreover there is a wiper alongside high mounted stop lamp for better safety. The rear bumper looks sporty with multi-reflectors and smartly carved license plate. On the whole, the rear, similar to front, provides you with sheer visual ecstasy.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Safety Features

The century old auto giant General Motors have always been forward in providing its customers with proper safety elements in its vehicles. And therefore, Chevrolet Sail Hatchback will share no difference and hold sufficient aspects of safety inside. The expected features will consists of compact version of Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) along with driver side and passenger side air bag. Moreover, some other Chevrolet Sail Hatchback safety features include 3-point ELR seat belts for all occupants, front fog lamps, door open warning/alarm, child safety locks at rear and side impact beams alongside advanced engine immobilizer.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Driving and Handling

Prior to its launch, Chevrolet Sail Hatchback will definitely go through some stringent handling tests in order to get familiar with Indian conditions. And doing the same, many a times Chevrolet Sail Hatchback was caught testing near its manufacturing facility in the country. The engine will definitely be peppy and will cut corners well in city traffic besides decent highway abilities. Usually the GM vehicles come out with pretty good response when it comes to ride quality, and the same is expected with this Chevy hatch too. The responsive suspension system that is expected to be McPherson Strut at front along with torsion bar positioned at rear. This advanced comfort mechanism will provide with stable driving and handling in Chevrolet Sail Hatchback. Moreover, potholes and roadside undulations will be swallowed well, without making the occupants experience the same.

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback Conclusion

The competition is all time high in the proper mass segment hatchback segment that comprises of high-energy players like Maruti Swift, Hyundai i20 and Ford Figo and to battle them out GM currently relies on Chevrolet Beat. This encounter can be proclaimed as an injustice by any means, as flop Chevy Aveo has nearly no sales, hence a volume charmer like Chevrolet Sail hatchback could prove to be real humdinger for GM in India. Nevertheless, the US based automaker is also aware about the necessity of mass puller at this stage that’s why the inside-out design is kept unfussy, which reflects money-making mood of the century old carmaker. With least expense on styling part, it will forward this monetary benefit to customers in the form of competitive price. Sighting the large exteriors at the Auto Expo one can suggest that it carries loads of space inside, unlike the cramped rear in Swift along with decent boot space too. GM has experienced ‘awful’ as well as ‘grandeur’ times in the Indian auto market and has learnt a lot from those instances. The company has come a long way from ‘Opel’ to ‘Chevrolet’ in India, and it now knows all the particular ingredients that tempt Indian car consumers.

Chevrolet Sail UVA FAQs

Question 1: What is the launch date of Chevrolet Sail UVA hatchback?
Answer: As per the reports, Chevrolet Sail UVA hatchback launch will take place on the 02nd November 2012.

Question 2: Will Chevrolet Sail UVA be available in diesel option?
Answer: Certainly. The company will unveil both the versions 1.2L petrol as well as 1.3L diesel variant of Chevrolet Sail UVA in the country.

Question 3: What will be the exact price of Chevrolet Sail hatchback?
Answer: Up till now the Chevrolet Sail UVA price speculations have been doing rounds in the auto sector, whilst it is estimated to fall around Rs 4.5-5.0 lakh.

Question 4: Are the Chevrolet Sail hatchback bookings open across the country?
Answer: The company has not announced any official bookings for Chevrolet Sail UVA; however for pre-bookings you can contact your nearest Chevrolet dealership in your city.

Question 5: As Chevrolet Sail hatchback will be a mass segment car will there be airbags and ABS as safety features?
Answer: There are all chances that the top end variants of petrol and diesel models will carry adequate safety features that will definitely include dual airbags and ABS.