Chevrolet Beat (New) (Petrol)

The Chevrolet Beat petrol is powered by a 1199cc S-TECH II, 16-valve DOHC engine that produces 79 bhp at 6200 rpm and 108 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and silence, even when idling. The car features a 5-speed manual transmission and comes equipped with ABS, EBD, and dual SRS front airbags for enhanced safety. The interior is spacious, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, although the boot space is somewhat limited. The ride quality is commendable, with good suspension that absorbs most bumps, though the standard 1557014 tyres could be upgraded for better performance. Overall, the Beat combines stylish looks, comfortable ride, and good fuel efficiency, making it a viable option for those looking for a reliable city car.

The Chevrolet Beat petrol is a compelling option in the Indian market, especially for those seeking a stylish, efficient, and comfortable city car. Its 1199cc S-TECH II engine delivers smooth power and is remarkably silent, making it a pleasure to drive in urban conditions. The cars exterior design is sleek and modern, with features like concealed rear door handles adding to its unique appeal. However, the gearbox can be a bit notchy, and the lack of keyless entry and a height adjuster for the drivers seat are notable omissions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Beats overall performance, fuel efficiency, and ride quality make it a solid choice for family use and short to medium-length trips.

General Motors India started exporting the Chevrolet Beat sedan to Latin America in June 2017. The first consignment of 1,200 units was shipped, marking a significant export milestone for the company. This move highlighted the global demand for the Beat and its potential beyond the Indian market. I believe this export strategy helped GM India leverage its manufacturing capabilities effectively.

Chevrolet India announced that it would discontinue sales of all its products, including the Chevrolet Beat, effective December 31, 2017. This decision came as the company decided to utilize its Indian facilities for export markets only. The Beat, known for its compact design and fuel efficiency, was a popular choice in the Indian market. I believe this move marked the end of an era for Chevrolet in India, and it will be interesting to see how the brand adapts to its new export-focused strategy.

In July 2017, Chevrolet was expected to launch the updated Beat hatchback in India. The new model was spotted testing without any camouflage, revealing a new design, improved styling, and additional features such as Chevrolets MyLink infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto. This update was anticipated to make the Beat more competitive in the market. I think the inclusion of modern infotainment features was a great move to attract tech-savvy buyers.

The 2016 Chevrolet Beat was launched in India at a starting price of Rs. 4.28 lakh, featuring refreshed interiors, new color options, and additional safety and convenience features. This update aimed to keep the Beat competitive in the highly dynamic Indian hatchback segment. I think the refresh was a good attempt to keep the model relevant, but it ultimately couldnt prevent the discontinuation of sales in India.

General Motors India recalled over 1,01,597 units of the Chevrolet Beat diesel variant due to potential issues. The recall affected cars manufactured between December 2010 and July 2014. This move demonstrated the companys commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of its vehicles. I believe such proactive measures help build trust with customers, even if the model is no longer in production.

When I purchased the Chevrolet Beat in 2014, the ex-showroom price was around Rs 4.5 lakhs, but the on-road price came to approximately Rs 5.30 lakhs after including various costs such as insurance, registration, tax, and accessories. The total on-road price included discounts of Rs 28,000, insurance costing Rs 15,000, logistic and PDI handling charges of Rs 8,000, and registration and tax amounting to Rs 7,000. Additionally, there were some complementary accessories like a security system and keyless entry, along with some purchased accessories. While prices may have varied slightly over the years, this gives a good idea of what to expect in terms of overall costs.

The Chevrolet Beat petrol offers impressive mileage, with real-world figures often reported around 16.5 kmpl, which includes a mix of city and highway driving. This is close to the ARAI-certified mileage of 18.6 kmpl, making it a fuel-efficient choice for daily commuting and short trips. This mileage is particularly beneficial for those concerned about running costs, as it helps in keeping fuel expenses manageable.