What are the differences between the New Sail 3 and Sail 3?

[SanLilah]

There are significant differences between the Sail 3 and the New Sail. The Sail 3 features a more fashionable appearance, richer configurations, and a slightly higher price compared to the older Sail model. Additionally, intelligent start-stop has become a standard feature, offering high cost performance. The specific details are as follows: 1. New Sail: The New Sail is the latest version of the Sail. The headlight design has been altered, with the new model adopting an irregular shape that gives it a distinctive look. The grille incorporates Chevrolet's new family face design and adds chrome trim, making it visually more striking. 2. Sail 3: The Chevrolet Sail 3 (third-generation Sail) was officially launched in Chengdu on December 18, 2014. The new car offers two engine options, 1.3L and 1.5L, with a total of five models to choose from. The Sail 3 is built on Shanghai GM's new-generation small car platform, featuring leading-class technology, a more spacious body size, and a more stylish exterior and interior design. It also includes a newly developed, highly fuel-efficient powertrain and utilizes various high-tech features to enhance overall product performance. Supported by Chevrolet's international brand system, the Sail 3 aims to meet the high-quality vehicle needs of China's broadest consumer base, once again setting dual benchmarks for quality and value in the entry-level family car segment.

[OAbigail]

As a former Chevrolet salesperson, there are three core differences between these two generations of models. The new Sail 3 primarily received a 1.3L/1.5L DVVT engine after its 2015 facelift, replacing the older 1.2L/1.4L engines, with fuel consumption reduced by about 0.8L. Externally, the new model features thicker chrome grille bars, while the older version had larger black areas on the bumper. The most noticeable changes are in the configuration - starting from the 2015 model, the top trim added a central control screen and rearview camera, whereas the older version even had knob-adjusted radio. The rearview mirror design also became more rounded, and the window controls were moved from the main driver's side to the door panel. In reality, the chassis structure wasn't significantly modified, so buying a used older model for affordability is fine, but the new model's features are more beginner-friendly.

[DiBradley]

After seven years in auto repair and seeing hundreds of Sail models, let me cut to the chase. The new Sail 3 features a thicker anti-corrosion coating on its frame, which is clearly visible when we lift the car to inspect the chassis. Owners of older models frequently come in to replace the power steering pump, but the post-2015 new models switched to electric power steering, completely eliminating this issue. The oil filter has been relocated from the bottom to the top of the engine, eliminating the need to remove the underbody panel during maintenance. The design of the cabin air filter housing has been changed, making DIY replacement one level easier. Most importantly, the rear brakes have been upgraded from drum to disc, reducing braking distance by over two meters in rainy conditions. In my opinion, the brake system upgrade alone makes the new model worth choosing—safety first.

[DiElias]

Owners who just traded in their old models for the new ones share their experiences. The interior plastic quality of the new Sail 3 has significantly improved, eliminating the creaking sound issue when pressing the center console in the old model. The seat padding has been thickened by 1.5 cm, making long drives more comfortable without back pain. The instrument panel has changed from orange backlight to white self-illumination, providing better visibility at night. Additional storage compartments include a card slot in front of the gear lever and door panel cup holders, finally giving my wife a place to put her milk tea. The most surprising upgrade is the tires, which have been upgraded from 165 to 175, significantly reducing bumpiness when going over speed bumps. Fuel consumption is 0.5 liters per 100 kilometers lower than the old model, and with the same 42-liter fuel tank, it can run an extra 50 kilometers.

[MacMia]

Automotive media have conducted comparative tests on these two generations. The new Sail 3 has an 18mm increase in body height, offering better passability, yet it maintains more stable cornering with improved anti-roll control. The engine idle noise has been reduced from 49 decibels to 46 decibels, equivalent to clearer conversation after closing the windows. The trunk capacity decreased from 432 liters in the old model to 366 liters in the new one, but the rear seats now support full folding as a remedy. The windows have been upgraded from manual to electric operation, though only the driver's side features one-touch down, and mirror adjustment still requires manual tilting. Passive safety has been enhanced with the addition of an ISO FIX child seat anchor, which is particularly essential for families with children. It's advisable to consider models from 2016 onwards, as ESP became standard equipment from that year.

[AuroraFitz]

My neighbor who runs an auto repair shop reminded me of three key points: the timing chain on the new Sail 3 is maintenance-free for life, while the older belt version needs replacement every 60,000 kilometers, saving you 800 yuan; the new model's front suspension lower control arm has been upgraded from stamped parts to cast parts, making it less prone to deformation when hitting potholes; a common issue with the older model is thermostat coolant leakage, but the new version has improved seal ring materials. However, the older model's wiper motor is of better quality, while the new model's mirror heating element tends to burn out. If buying used, be aware of a recall on the 2014 model's steering column—check the maintenance records. The current model has been discontinued for five years, so it's more practical to test drive used cars directly in the secondhand market.