Poised for Success
The third generation Chevrolet Utility – which evolved from the Corsa Utility that laid the foundation for what has become an icon in market segment for smaller pick-ups – looks set to enjoy even more success than its forerunners.
In South Africa, the outgoing Chevrolet Utility has been the benchmark vehicle and segment sales leader for 80 consecutive months, with a market share as high as 46% in 2011. Behind this sustained sales success is a formula that provides for a spacious, feature rich, small pick-up that can be used for business as well as private purposes.
A key factor in the success of the Chevrolet Utility is that it sets new benchmarks for the class in terms of interior space and comfort, style, features, and load carrying ability. The payload capability for the latest generation model is between 733 kg and 763 kg, depending on the model.
Driver and passenger airbags are standard across the range, as is a height adjustable steering wheel. The driver’s seat is also height adjustable on all models, and height adjustment is now also provided for the three point seat belts. The vehicle’s overall length is now 4,514 mm, which is 78 mm longer than the previous model. The new Chevrolet Utility enters the market with a choice of either 1.4 litre or 1.8 litre petrol engines, both mated to a manual six speed transmission. A diesel powered model is scheduled for introduction during 2012.
The two petrol engines are the same units that have proven themselves so well suited to their application in this vehicle in the current generation model. Both are single overhead camshaft, eight valve engines that produce 68 kW and 77 kW respectively, with maximum torque of 120 Nm for the 1.4 litre engine and 161 Nm for the 1.8 litre unit.
Initially, buyers will have a choice of seven models. Base, Club and Sport specification levels will also be offered. A factory fitted air conditioning option is available on the Base 1.4 model, while air conditioning is standard on the 1.8 Base.
With the ramp up to full local production of the new Chevrolet Utility, South Africa is the only source of the right hand drive model worldwide. The recent demise of Ford’s Bantam sub one-tonner will also probably lead to monthly sales in excess of 2,000 units for the Utility within a short period of time.
The launch drive revealed the 1.8 model’s uncanny ability to accelerate briskly from 40 km/h, while left in fifth gear. However, we did notice some wind intrusion on the driver’s side door, as well as a disconcertingly vague brake pedal action. Drivers will also wonder what has become of the footrest.
Prices range from R115,600 for the 1.4 base model to R173,500 for the 1.8 Sport.
Story by Bernard K Hellberg
