The Chevrolet Sail III 1.5, producing 113 horsepower, was a subcompact sedan manufactured primarily for emerging markets, including China, from 2014 onwards. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Sail III range, it represented a significant step up from the base models, offering a balance of affordability and practicality. The Sail III itself was a re-engineered version of the Opel Astra J, adapted for cost-sensitive markets. This variant played a crucial role in Chevrolet’s strategy to gain market share in regions where fuel efficiency and low purchase price were paramount. It utilized a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter inline-four engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, making it a common sight in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Sail/S-RV |
| Generation | Sail III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (113 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 4000 rpm (104 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L2B |
| Engine displacement | 1485 cm3 (90.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1103 kg (2431.7 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 366 l (12.93 cu. ft) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 39 l (10.3 US gal | 8.58 UK gal) |
| Length | 4300 mm (169.29 in) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in) |
| Height | 1503 mm (59.17 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in) |
| Front track | 1477 mm (58.15 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1468 mm (57.8 in) |
| Front overhang | 856 mm (33.7 in) |
| Rear overhang | 944 mm (37.17 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 126 mm (4.96 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft) |
| Approach angle | 14.0° |
| Departure angle | 18.0° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Dependent spring suspension with transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sail III 1.5 was the L2B engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, utilizing Chevrolet’s DVVT (Double Variable Valve Timing) technology. DVVT aimed to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency by adjusting the timing of both intake and exhaust valves based on engine speed and load. The engine employed multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The five-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. While not a particularly sophisticated powertrain, the L2B engine was known for its reliability and ease of maintenance, crucial factors in its target markets.
Driving Characteristics
The Sail III 1.5, with its 113 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque, offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.7 seconds, and top speed was limited to 180 km/h (112 mph). Compared to potential higher-trim versions (which were not widely available in many markets), the 1.5-liter engine felt less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios designed to prioritize fuel economy. The power delivery was linear, but lacked the punch of turbocharged engines or larger displacement alternatives. The overall driving experience was geared towards comfort and practicality rather than sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sail III 1.5 typically came with a basic but functional equipment list. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and rear parking sensors. The trim level was generally considered entry-level, appealing to buyers seeking an affordable and reliable means of transportation.
Chassis & Braking
The Sail III utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employed a dependent spring suspension with a transverse stabilizer, a cost-effective solution that prioritized simplicity over sophisticated handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the braking performance was not particularly strong, especially under heavy load. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (1103 kg / 2432 lbs) helped to mitigate the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Sail III 1.5 was generally well-received in its target markets as an affordable and reliable option. Critics often praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs. However, it was also criticized for its basic interior, lack of refinement, and relatively modest performance. Compared to other subcompact sedans available in the same markets, the Sail III 1.5 offered a competitive price point but lacked some of the features and sophistication of its rivals. Its fuel economy of 5.4 l/100km was competitive within its class, and its simple mechanical design contributed to its reputation for reliability.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Sail III 1.5, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a crucial model for Chevrolet in emerging markets. Its affordability and reliability made it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those seeking a practical and economical mode of transportation. In the used car market, the Sail III 1.5 remains a relatively affordable option, and its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. The L2B engine, while not known for its performance, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting unit, contributing to the Sail III’s overall reputation for reliability.
