Chevrolet unveils Sail hatchback and MPV

Chevrolet India has officially unveiled the Sail and MPV models. The two cars are the first models to be launched from GM India’s Chinese partner SAIC’s portfolio of models.

The Sail is a sub-4-metre hatchback (overall length: 3947mm) that is scheduled to go on sale in mid-2012. A 2465mm wheelbase promises good interior space. Like the exterior styling, the cabin is quite neat too but does not really standout in terms of design. The Sail will be launched with an 81bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine. A Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre diesel will be added to the line-up later in the year.

The ‘MPV’ will the second model to be added to the Chevy line-up by mid-2012. While styling may be inoffensive, the MPV’s ability to seat seven (or eight depending on configuration) will be its biggest selling point. The MPV will be sold initially with a 94.6bhp, 1.4-litre petrol engine. As on the Sail, the 1.3-litre diesel engine will be made available towards the end of the year. Interestingly, British car maker Lotus worked with engineers at GM’s technical centre in Bangalore to fine-tune the MPV’s chassis.

Chevrolet is likely to price both the models aggressively and this could really be a new beginning for GM in India.