Chevrolet Beat Diesel LS

Chevrolet India has silently launched the facelifted version of its low cost hatch Chevrolet Beat at the Indian Auto Expo 2014 in New Delhi. The latest version of Beat comes with minor cosmetic updates, while its technicalities remained unchanged. The company made changes to both the interiors and exteriors of this hatch, while retaining all the features of the outgoing model. The manufacturer is offering it in four trim levels with petrol and diesel engine options for the customers to choose from. The Chevrolet Beat Diesel LS is one of the mid level variant and it is powered by a 3-cylinder, DOHC based 1.0-litre diesel motor that is capable of giving away 25.44 Kmpl of mileage. This particular trim gets a redesigned radiator grille up front along with a revamped headlight cluster and a new newel effect tail lamp that gives it a refreshing new look. There is no update given to the interior section of this hatch. The manufacturer is offering a 3-years/1,00,000 kilometers warranty (whichever is earlier). By launching this latest version, the company will expect improved sales in market.

Exteriors:

The Chevrolet Beat Diesel LS is one of the mid range trims and it is being offered with minor cosmetic updates. On its frontage, the dual port radiator grille gets a minor tweak with a more pronounced look. The headlight cluster too received re-treatment with a smoked sort of design inside and it is equipped with powerful halogen lamps along with turn indicator. On the side profile, the steel wheels have been fitted with stylized steel wheels that adds a fresh new look to the side profile. The door handles, ORVMs and the window sills on both the sides have been garnished black color. The rear profile of this trim gets a jewel effect taillight cluster that comes incorporated with a high intensity tail lamp, courtesy light and turn indicator. Apart from this, the rear bumper gets a dual tone look, thanks to the black colored plastic cladding fitted under it that adds to the safety of this vehicle. In addition to these, the company also fitted a black colored rear spoiler that is accompanied with high mounted stop lamp. The rest of the design remains to be the same as the outgoing model.

Interiors:

This mid level trim gets the same old design without any cosmetic updates. It comes with all black interiors that are complimented by silver inserts. The dashboard is neatly designed and it is fitted with number of important equipments such as AC unit , three spoke power steering wheel and an instrument panel as well. Here, the company has given silver embellishments on the steering wheel and on the instrumentation panel, while giving a high gloss black finish on the IP and doors. The seats inside the cabin are very comfortable and they have been covered with semi-fabric seats with some design inserts on it. The company has given it a number of useful features inside the cabin like a rear parcel shelf, bottle holders and map pockets in front doors, coat hooks, seat back shopping hooks, accessory power outlets and cup holders.

Engine and Performance:

Powering this particular trim is the 1.0-litre, SMARTECH diesel power plant that comes with 936cc displacement capacity. This engine is based on DOHC valve configuration with 3-cylinders and total 12-valves. It can produce a maximum power output of about 57.6Bhp at 4000rpm , while generating a peak torque output of about 150Nm at 1750rpm. The company has coupled this engine with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox that distributes the torque output to the front wheels. This engine is said to be the most fuel efficient in its class with an ability to give away 25.44 Kmpl of maximum mileage. On the other hand, this engine allows the hatch to reach a top speed of about 135 to 145 Kmph, while reaching the 100 Kmph speed in about 18 to 19 seconds.

Braking and Handling:

The company has equipped this hatch with a robust suspension mechanism by assembling its front axle with McPherson Strut with anti-roll bar, while equipping the rear axle with a compound crank mechanism . In addition to these, it also comes fitted gas filled shock absorbers on the front and rear axles that reinforces the suspension mechanism. On the other hand, the company has assembled the front wheels with a set of ventilated disc brakes, while the rear wheels have solid drum brakes that functions exceptionally well on all road conditions. In addition to these, the company also incorporated a power assisted steering system that offers a crisp and precise response to the driver, especially in low speed conditions.

Comfort Features:

This Chevrolet Beat Diesel LS is one of the mid level variants and it is offered with a decent set of features. Its cabin is equipped with a proficient air conditioning unit with heater that keeps the environment cool. This mid level variant also comes with a driver seat height adjuster, which is one of the most important comfort features. On the other hand, the company is offering this trim with power steering system, internally adjustable outside mirrors, passenger vanity mirror, front power windows, rear seat back folding , remote fuel lid and tailgate opener and much more. Apart from these, the company has also installed an advanced instrument panel that features a digital tachometer, digital trip meter, door ajar warning, digital clock and low fuel warning.

Safety Features:

The company is offering this base trim with limited set of features that offers protection to the occupants. The wheels of this hatch have been covered with a set of high quality tubeless radial tyres that can take on any terrain in the country with ease. This hatch model also comes with driver seat belt reminder notification and height adjuster for front seats that provides safety to the occupants in the cockpit. Apart from these, the company is also offering this particular trim with a day and night internal rear view mirror along with central locking system that enhances the security level of this trim.

Pros: Fuel efficiency is good, affordable price tag.

Cons: Rear cabin leg space is less, safety standards needs to improve.