Chevrolet Sail [2012-2014] User Reviews

Exterior Though a bit of a conservative design, SAIL has a great front look. Some people may find the rear looks not so trendy but over all its much better than most of the cars out there. The first look itself will make you realise how steardy the car is. Chevy's signature Dual port front grill with the symmetric chevy sign in the middle will win your heart at the first look!

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Again Chevy's signature Dual Cockpit speaks for itself. One of Chevy's ultimate quality is space management on front panel. I have driven Spark before this and have observed that Chevy will give you small spaces everywhere to keep those accessories and handy utilities. SAIL is no exception. The speakers are mounted on top side of the panel and hence give good space on the sides. Cabin space is comparable to Honda City (which I have been driving for 2 years). Plastic used is of good quality. The only problem is the front power window switches, which have been put near the ashtray section. This is a bit annoying at first but one gets used to it and then realises that its indeed better as the co-driver can also manage driver side window, which is actually beneficial. The sterio quality is one of the best. With AUX, USB, and Bluetooth it has everything you need - including hands free call receiving. The best part about the BT connectivity is that once paired with the car you don't have to go through the whole set up everytime. It has amazing bass. In all Interiors and features beat Brio, Polo, Figo, Etios Liva hands down.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Gear box sways like butter, again comparable to Honda City. Though I cannot comment on Milage as its a new car, the company claims 16 for petrol in city. Engine is silent, a lot of times I forget if its on or not. The pick up is good, though not the best, but that is because of chevy's nozzle technology which opens only half the valves in first gear and hence is fuel efficient (something they have introduced since Beat).

Ride Quality & Handling

There are three reasons why I like driving this car more than Honda City - 1. Its higher but not as high as an SUV, makes it a satisfying drive, and gives good groud clearance. 2. The wheel base is wide, gives ultimate control. 3. Suspension is amazing, I would say the best I have ever seen. You would not feel mid sized potholes on road at all. Chevy claims to have intensively tested the car on Indian roads and it shows. The steering wheel is hydraulic (Chevy's usual), which I like better for 2 reasons - 1. It assists in coming back to original position unlike electric which you have to rotate as much as you did for turning. 2. Its low maintenance as it doesnt have the hastle of the electric motor part. The light and wiper switches have been installed the usual Indian way and not the american way as was in Spark, which is definitely an improvement.

Final Words Its the ultimate car. I believe if Chevy advertises it correctly, it can become the next Swift. Its a Luxury Hatchback par excellence and with good pricing.

Areas of improvement They should provide mudflaps and car cover free.. Currently they don't. One needs to get used to the horn as it is not in the middle of the steering wheel (because of Airbag) but on the two spokes.

Suspension, Great Interiors, Amazing Control, Boot Space, Leg Space, Best Features in CategoryWindow control on panel not on driver's side, LS ABS comes only with one air bag.

Dear Team,

I have brought Chevrolet Sail Sedan Car from Padam Cars, Ludhiana on 26th March’13. Since the day I purchased this car, I am daily facing issues with this car. Multiple replacement of different types of parts has already been done with this car. This is a complete manufacturing defect from Chevrolet. I have visited more than 8 times to Service Centres in a short duration of 3 months of purchase of my new car.

Details Of car is as below:

Model Chevrolet Sail 1.3 LS  Diesel

Purchase Date 28th Mar’13

Here are some of the issues which I am facing from the date of purchase of this car, these issues are still banging on my head after multiple repairs and replacement of parts by Chevrolet Service Centres:

1. Noise in the Hood (Plastic part below the wipers) – They have repaired the same 6 times, replaced with new one also, but still noise is there.

2. Paint Issue - After Pre monsoon rains the paint form door handle is ready to be peeled off like a sticker pasted on the car. Service centre says they are ready to paint the same under warranty.

3. Mileage Issue – Didn’t got time to get it tested as the other things wasted my all visits; but believe me its not more than 13-14 KMPL.

Please advise me on these things, this complete car is defective car that can’t be repaired. This was my last visit to Chevrolet. I have not done any sin that I have wasted my 7.5 Lac Rs. In this car + 8 times visit to service centres + harassment which I am facing by daily driving this car.

I am really amazed that General Motors is not even replying to my e-mails. I need replacement of this defective piece with new one with all accessories which I have fitted in it.

I really need your kind support as I have really being harassed by Chevrolet.

Rohit

Nothing seems goodWorst Noise problem ever seen in a car; mileage bhool jaao

Exterior very good and apealing.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) lots of space is there at rear seat it is very much comfortable than verito and indigo.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox I reall felt the torque in this vehicle excellent fuel economy @  120 km/hr, I was shocked there is no noise in engine and cabin and while overtaking it support fully on highways without answering sorry.

Ride Quality & Handlingits Again awsome road grip and steering control ,i never felt it into a entry level sedan.

Final Words I felt that this is a complete deisel Sedan which made me happy ,actually i was driving a indigo cs and when i taken test drive i decided to buy this and on sunday i purchase this amazing vehicle and i drove it approx 400 km without any hazzle.

Areas of improvement Front Fog lamps in LS ABS version should be given by the Chevrolet,it lacs into vehicle.

Excellent fuel economy,driving comfort,awesome steering controlDriver side window control not present ,rear gear shift indicator

I purchased the LS Petrol model on its launch & got delivery on 8th february 2013 from the Noida showroom & since then my nightmare has started.

There is a constant noise coming from the front-right side of the dashboard. The company service centre personnel informed that it has been identified as a defect in all SAIL version & they are putting an all weather strip to rectify the problem.

Even after getting that installed in the car, my car goes almost every week to the service centre for the same problem.

Till now my car has gone to the service centre for atleast 7-8 times in the last 11 weeks.

I have written alteast 3-4 times to the Management of Chevrolet, but they have not even cared to respond back to the mails till now. It is least expected from a company of such stature. 

I will not recommend anyone to buy this car, else you will have to keep on driving with a constant noise that will start giving headaches & heartburn to you.

Decent Fuel EconomyHave a manufacturing defect of dashboard noise.

Exterior When you first look at the Chevrolet Sail Sedan you get the feel of looking at a mini Cruz, with bold lines flowing through out the body and seamless matching of the boot, this car is here to stay and will be "Neighbours Envy Owners Pride". The Headlamps and Tail Lamps are are beautifully crafted and overall you have a car which is a Sedan and not an improvization.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) First Up the AC is superb, seats are wonderfully Comfortable, fresh feel in the interiors, Superb space for getting in and out, excellent fit and finish, good comforable and airy cabin, boot space and good and the space is well done with covers all across and not esposed metal. Comfortable placing of power window buttons, lots of space to store things, even space below the rear seats (This is spectaculor). The cabin is absolutely noiseless (even with the diesel power inside).

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Engine is very powerfull, its rev happy and it will pump the speed when you ask it to. no wait time. The best part is the gears don't stall, you can rev upto 80 KMPH without getting the feel that the car is gasping for air. You can overtake easily and gear shits are great and smooth. Cant say much about Fuel Economy as the car is yet to go for first service.

Ride Quality & Handling The Sail rides as if its riding on clouds, the suspension and the shockers are great and car doesnot feel nervous at high speeds, it stays steady and feels very reliable while driving at high speeds. Indian roads...no problem...I drive a Sunny but I must say that the Sail is way more comfortable and easier to handle that Sunny. The entire suspension gives you a very soft and comfortable feel. The steering is light and it help you manuvour inside the city like a dream and when you pickup speed the steering gets the right speed and it help you keep the control of the car properly.

Final Words Overall its an excellent car, good value for money and looks awesome. Its not a Dezire or the Honda Amaze which feels like a boot is hanging out of a Hatch. The design is sensable, car is practical and powerfull and will please people who want a car, not something that looks like one, also I must say Aravalli Motors in Gurgaon have made the entire buying experience great. I am very satisfied with the car and would recommend people plannning to buy a car should have a look at it.

Areas of improvement Very difficult to say, but nothing is 100% perfect in this world. Power Window switch should have lights so as to make them easy to find them in the dark, Temperature Gauge is required, would be good if Chevy includes a Driver Information System going forward, the quality of switch plastic should be improves, the Headlamp and Wiper swtiches feel very plasticky and doesnot have a premium feel to them.

Alokendu Choudhury

Aggressive exterior styling, value for money, complete sedan, spacious interriorsEye for Details

Exterior

The best part of the chevy Sail is the exterior. Personally i feel that it simply outclasses any sedan in its class. Bold, mature styling devoid of any otherwise unnecessary lines or cuts makes it look really smart. Unlike the Swift dzire where the boot seems to have stuked up into the rear, the boot of Sail blends seamlessly at the rear. The Hawk Eyed headlamps complemented with trademark dual  grill and the golden Bowtie Chevy emblem make it look great. At the rear of the car you find swept tail lamps and again no nonsense lines or bends. however i wish chevy gave those turn indicators on ORVMs. To sum up it's design is very well balanced and quite decent, unlike the Honda Amaze which has Lots of scars and rents and even the Swift Dzire.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

when you talk of the interiors of the car except for the raw plastics it has everything else that is mesmerising. The dual Cockpit design, taken from the Corvette give the feeling of what it says. Though I don't like the digital Tachometer which is a bit difficult to read and to get used  to.The positioning of power windows is not conventional and is before the shifter.But you don't have to reach far for them!! You would really appreciate this once you get used to. you don't have to lose control of your right hand and it is very easy to control every other window. If you have seen the Chevy Sail commercial, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdZaSEJCqzA you would realise the adorable kid keeps his skateboard somewhere underneath the rear seat..and it vanishes!! this gives you the idea of what space this car has to offer, other than those glove box and lots of cup holders!! In terms of comfort the chevy is at par with Etios but yes again its interiors are lot better. The positioning of the horn buttons are akin to what you must have seen in old maruti 800's..!! :) but they did not have airbags.!! and the good thing about this positioning is not to make you empty your pockets if there is a problem with horn switch.

However few features are missing like the steering mounted audio controls but once you use the equipped stereo with bluetooth streaming that can connect to 6 phones and you turn on the bass you forget it all. The bluetooth is excellent you can simply relax in the rear of the car with your hand on the armrest and have an excellent conversation on phone...

and yea not to forget that lots of warninngs and beeps to check you!! but yes they are not to put you in trouble. a sweeet chime will remind you if you have left the key in..and others come when you don't use the seatbelt...feels that my chevy is more concerned for me than my Mom!!  

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

The engine feels refined  but lacks low end torque making it a "little" sluggish in the city traffic. However with the smoooth gearbox, gear shifting feels a task so frivolous and mind the powersteering...simply the best and the suspensions too...chevy deserves a pat on the back to have so propely tuned the suspensions for the indian conditions...you can Sail over potholes so easily.

I have driven the car only a 800kms and the millege is just O.k ok type ...The chevy doesn't boast of having an excellent milege unlike the amaze but its not that bad i churn out some 14-15kmpl in city.

 

Ride Quality & Handling 

yes its the ride quality and handling where the sail unanimously outclasses every car of its segment. I have driven the swift, its quite good but the SUPERLATIVE DEGREE BEST is made for SAIL.. the suspensions are amazing. The car also responses very well to steering input and all this when complemented by ABS make it a complete package. You will have your mother your girlfriiend (or your wife!!) all admiring the comfort of the sail and  driving with the hydraulic power steering is so effortless you really enjoy it.

 

 

Final Words

 The CHEVROLET SAIL is a car that deserves a lot however owing to some intial hiccups , those recalls and all ,there would have been a growth in the number of people despising the car.

But i have bought this car after lot of hair splitting and yes i can proudly say I got myself something that's really amazing. There are a lot of people you would find in forums or otherwise who will despise GM for customer satisfaction and all those stuff, but believe me I got my sail from Rahul Chevrolet, Ranchi and am very much content with the response i have got. The only thing i would like to tell someone reading this is don't go to any showroom closing your eyes and not contemplating the options you have...there are a lot of options you have and people will say a lot of things about GM not being good or bad or whatever but if you don't know what GM is you should not talk nonsense. From cadillac which the american prez uses to being the world's second largest car manufactures...from being the makers of the corvette to the awe inpiring camaro..GM has a lot to offer beyond your imagination and granted that they are trying hard to sustain in the intense indian market, remember, NO COMPANY GIVES YOU 3 YEARS WARRANTY, LOW MAINTAINENCE ASSURANCE until it has so much faith in what it makes and what it has.

to sum up : yes CHEVY SAIL COMMANDS RESPECT AND ENVY AT THE SAME TIME...DRIVE IT YOU WILL LOVE IT.. 

Areas of improvement 

 few missing features as i pointed out including the turn indicators on orvms and the steering mounted audio controls... need to be incorporated.

 

 

elegant styling, comfort, adequate boot space, excellent power steering,lack steering mounted audio control, digital tacho, and driver seat height adjuster

Exterior

This car though above 4 meters in length and impressive pricing can be compared with Amaze, Swift Dezire or Toyota Etios. Sail has better exterior looks and styling compared to competition if feel - however this is subjecive to personal preference. I have nothing more to comment on exterior other than it does not sport a chopped off look compared to competition. 

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

Interior Colors and design -> Though some may say the interior is bit too dull and does not lift the mood, I got used to it after 4 months and now feel that its not that bad as it camaflauges the dust settling on the dash board and still looks clean. With better seat covers and floor mats, one can slightly uplift the looks.

Space and comfort -> It has good space and can seat 5 medium sized adults in comfort and is very comfortable for me who is 6 foot 3 inches to drive and can still seat 4 adults like me in comfort with a small sized adult or a kid in the rear seat.

Storage space under the rear seats and bottle holders on the two front doors and ample cup holders with a arm rest with cup holders available in the car. Gives a complete sedan feeling.

Not to forget the boot of 370 liters which can swallow quiet some luggage.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

Now this is where the problem starts. This 1.3 diesel engine is said to be codeveloped by Chevrolet-Fiat and is the same engine that does duty in Swift Diesel, Tata Indica Vista, Punto but now all know that all the companies have tweaked it differenty and that is where the problem is. Whatever refinement that chevrolet has brought in this engine has two sides. The mileage is average. City bumper to bunper traffic I have not got over 11-12 Kmpl and on highways if you do not change gears too frequently and drive constantly at 90-110 then you can see a mileage of 19 kmpl (This was between Bangalore and Hyderabad).

With the car loaded with 5 adults where 3 of us were 99-100 Kgs and 2 others around 60-70 Kgs with sufficient luggage in boot with full tank of diesel and between Bangalore and Madikeri (coorg) highwat, got a mileage not more than 12 Kmpl (this was when the car had run just 200 Kms - within the 2nd week of purchase).

So in short mileage is much lower than claimed and differs as per your driving conditions.

Ride Quality & Handling

Ride is excellent, feels like sailing on smooth roads - good NVH levels and very little noise from outside can be heard. When driving on highways at 100 - 120 there will be some road noise that leaks into the cabin. Getting a 3M rubberised undercarriage protection can reduse this noise.

Suspension is really great and absorbs all the average potholes with ease and keeps you comfortable.

Handling is good - in city driving conditions there is good feedback from the steering and the gear ratios are nicely aligned. You do not need to shift gears too much and is comfortable to drive around in city traffic and feels lignt on its feet. Cross 120 Kms on the highway and you will loose all your confidence as the steering feels dead and scary, slight movement of the weel will upset the driving. Ideal and comfortable driving is bwtween 0 to 120 Kms speed. 

Final Words

This car is new in India and still needs to improve on its made in china image and settle down. New buyers can get easily tempted to buy this but hold on - give it a good thought as there are many who have faced problems. Give it some time in the market and most of the problems from the first batch gets resolved, I am sure GM will work hard to make this little more problem free and give a better competition. 

Areas of improvement  

This car has very cheap windshields - absorbs no heat and with the useless rule of no tints on windows - your car easily turns into a oven and AC feels useless and this leads to more fuel consumption and lower the meleage.

After a 4 hour long drive with A.C on in full and later had parked in under the hot sun. The same night the weather dropped (hill station effect) and also rained that night - the result morning found the windshield cracked. 

GM inspected and gave a free replacement. So happy and thumbs up to GM for quick response. This proves that they care.

But still I hope they put better glass that absorbs some heat - something like what Amaze is coming with may be better.

GM needs to work much harder on the mileage.

The most annoying problems i faced: The plastic trim under the front windshield - it always keeps creating creaking noises. Have the entire trip replaced with windshield and 2 months later can still hear it creaking. Am due for 2nd free service and am going to fight to get it fixed for good.

 

Good looks, space and comfortAverage mileage, Cheap windshields

Exterior Best exterior in entry level sedan even beat some of the mid level sedans.looks like mini cruze. If you have opted for chrome kit its rear also give the killer look.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Interiors are bit commendable however okkeish for me... dezire or any other entry level sedans doesnt comes close to interior space ,unbelievably comfortable even more than honda city, vento,sunny,scala.and very low NVH.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Its 1.3l diesel engine has more than enough torque to drive this vehicle like crazy. However petrol is nonetheless. I own the petrol version. once you step inside the sail you will definitely forget that you are driving an entry level sedan. Had run 700km till now and mileage is around 15 for now in petrol.doesnt know about diesel.

Ride Quality & Handling Even chevy enemies can't blame sail Handling and ride quality.

Final Words This car is a sure killer for Etios, Dzire, Indigo, Manza and probably upcoming honda amaze. Handling and ride quality can make high end segment to feel ashame.

Areas of improvement Chevrolet should have provided the extra accessories to be included in their model this will further increase cost to about 20-30k, driver side window control missing,automatic ac missing. Rest best VFM vehicle.

Stylish exterior,very spacious for its size,awesome leg room,best in class comfortableDriver side window control not present,looks boring in gray color.

Exterior Comparing with Dezire, indigo or any other model in this segment rare view is much better it has a sedan look both from front & back.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Interior is very spacious with great comfort,you cannot make out weather engine is off on on inside.Rare leg space is very relaxing, on long drive one can never get exhasted(Excellent for 6ft tall guys).Crome is used  in most of the places where other vendors charge extra.Suspension is great small pit holes & jerks can be run upon except high speed breakers.Air Bag with 4 power window front & rare head rest both side adjustable remote mirror & central locking has been introduced in LS model no other Vendor is giving that in this range of sedan, rather we have to pay few extra lacks for getting each feature with other cars.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Good engine with no noise inside the car youll never be able to make out by the sound weather its on or off.Mileage as expected with an economy Sedan 18-19 on Highway.Gear box is smooth.GM's Engine is Trusted one for quit long.

Ride Quality & Handling Ride quality is comfortable small pithall and bad road you will not feel inside cauz of good suspension.

Final Words Excellent car to Buy & ride with GM 353 Warrenty.

Areas of improvement Chevrolet should include sterio system along with leather seat cover in there base model also.

Silent inside, Great Interior & Front View, Comfort, Luxury Features in Base model.Found none, Sterio should be there in the base model also