Test drive: Chevrolet Joy hatchback, dynamic and reliable

Test drive: Chevrolet Joy hatchback, dynamic and reliable

After its success in Brazil, and in other markets in the region, the brand decided to venture into our country with the new Chevrolet Joy, in its sedan and hatchback versions. This model, which is based on the previous generation of the Onix, hopes to become a “best seller” in its respective segment.

The Joy continues to bet on a traditional atmospheric engine. It is the traditional 1.4-liter four-cylinder 8-valve engine. Delivery 97 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 126 Nm of torque at 2,800 rpm, which are managed by a five-change mechanical box and front-wheel drive. This is a favorable point in terms of reliability and lower maintenance costs.

The exterior design remains the same as the first generation Onix. There are no changes, it retains the halogen light optics, but it lacks fog lights. The Joy hatchback measures 3.90 meters in length, 1.96 meters in width (including mirrors), 1.47 meters in height and its wheelbase is 2.52 meters.

From the side, the gray hubcaps stand out, on 15-inch wheels. The mirrors are finished in gloss black, without integrated turn signals. The handles are the same color as the body, it also has a factory central lock for opening the doors.

The back has square-shaped halogen lights and a conventional third stop on the panoramic rear.

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Inside

It has details that stand out such as the black trim on the steering wheel, the two-tone finish on the dashboard and the new fabric upholstery, with an appliqué on the back. The digital speedometer is illuminated in orange, contrasting with the sober appearance of the rest of the cabin. It has a Clarion radio with a 7″ screen and connection to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is connected to two speakers.

The trunk, in its hatchback version, is 289 liters, optimal for short trips, with a cover for objects. It also has the possibility of folding down the rear seat.

Security

It includes double frontal airbags, ABS with EBD brakes, Isofix anchorages, head restraints and three-point belts in all seats. It also comes equipped with hill start assistant (HSA), stability control (ESC) and central locking.

On going!

TO MOTORES the Joy arrived in its hatchback version, a quite versatile model, taking into consideration the congested streets of Guayaquil at rush hour.

Being a small vehicle, designed for short trips, we tested it most of the time in the city, but also making a short trip on the highway. In Guayaquil we put it to the test climbing several hills and hills, including Bellavista, Mapasingue and Lomas de Urdesa. He had no difficulty climbing any of these elevations, even the Bellavista hill he was able to climb in third gear, bringing out his powerful 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine.

On the road it performs in perfect conditions, it has good stability when gripping the curves. It offers good behavior at speeds over 100 km/h, without losing stability at any time. It has a progressive acceleration, benefiting the torque at low revs to be eight valves. The transmission ratio is also good, since it is in the middle between torque and consumption. The mode of travel is good, fully absorbing the imperfections of the road, even on uncovered terrain. The steering feels a bit harsh at low revs, but at speed it’s smooth and responsive to steering input.

Gear changes are long, but they help fuel economy, which hovers between 45 and 50 km/gal during our testing.

Inside the cabin, outside noise is not felt much; Details to be improved by the brand, and that may come in new updates, would include speakers for rear passengers and a couple of USB ports for greater comfort.

In conclusion, this car is designed for families of a maximum of four people (two adults and two children) or for those who wish to have their first vehicle and who do not make constant long trips. It is ideal because it saves on fuel and its maintenance is not expensive.

This vehicle is priced at $17,200 and can be found at Chevrolet dealers or at Induauto on av. Carlos Julio Arosemena, km 4.5 via Daule. (YO)

Source: Eluniverso

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