2013-2016 Chevrolet Spin
History
Chevrolet's current line-up had changed throughout its existence in the Philippines, from the time where gas guzzling vehicles became showroom stalwarts until Asian bred (from Korea and China) models were infused in the mid-00s. Things had changed when General Motors got bankrupt and a new distributor in the picture, improved models ushered in aiming to compete in certain categories and this includes the vehicle that we will be talking.
Developed as a global car in Brazil for worldwide consumption, the Spin replaced multiple but similar vehicles in several markets. Assembly points are located in Brazil and Indonesia, with the latter involving the re-opening of its plant in 2013 but only to close two years later due to poor sales. Engines vary per market requirements, which means South American models don't have the diesel while the ASEAN market gets lower displacement gasoline models.
Introduced to compete with the likes of the Toyota Avanza - as well as the later launched Suzuki Ertiga and Honda Mobilio - the Chevrolet Spin was unique in its class, since it offered a diesel engine which rivals do not get. While it sold well (but not to Japanese competition levels), it was a casualty of the closure of the plant, along with the Sonic sub-compact.
Value and Costs
Similar to rivals, second hand Spin units can be had between P460,000 to P600,000 which includes the unique to the segment diesel. Chevrolet has a five year warranty, so even the oldest model can have the remaining chunk which is an advantage.
Keeping this vehicle can be similar to the competition, since most carry the same displacement but slightly higher than Toyota's. Common niggles for this vehicle include the fan belt which is easy to break and the battery unit.
Exterior and Interior
Modern looking than most rivals although its proportions may look awkward (unlike the Mobilio's wagon like profile). LTZ models get alloy wheels and roof rails while the LT utilizes hubcaps.
One of the strengths of this vehicle is an airy cabin, which is abundant on headroom but adequate for the average Filipino rider. LT models lose the airbags, power mirrors, and a fancy audio system which the LTZ gets. Interior quality is excellent than most rivals except for the Ertiga.
Engine
Two engines of different fuel types are available in this vehicle which includes the following: the gasoline unit is the S-TEC 1.5 with 107 hp at 6,000rpm and 141Nm at 4,000rpm paired to an automatic while the diesel is the SDE 1.3 which has 74hp at 4,000rpm and 190Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm that can only be had with a manual. While the gas is decent enough, the diesel is the cream of the crop which provides more punch in the highway along with excellent fuel consumption.
Driving Impressions
Unlike some ancient rivals, this one drives similar to a sedan abeit with some heavy steering with road noise being evident on low speeds but strangely quiet on the highway. Other positives include an easy to maneuver nature, good all around visibility, and stable on high speeds.
Verdict
One vehicles that should have given more attention, the Spin has virtues that rivals lack. If a diesel Spin with complete set of amenities which is priced fair could have shaken the competition.
The Good:
- Available diesel engine
- Roomy cabin
- Interior quality
The Bad:
- Tight third row
- Single transmission option per fuel type
- May prove to be hard to maintain
The Pick: LTZ
Engines: 1,485cc S-TEC I4 gasoline and 1,248cc SDE I4 diesel
Power: 107hp @ 6,000rpm (1.5), 74hp @ 4,000rpm (1.3)
Torque: 141Nm @ 4,000rpm (1.5), 190Nm @ 1,750-2,500rpm (1.3)
Fuel Consumption: 8-15km/L (city), 11-16km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 5-speed manual (diesel), 6-speed automatic (gasoline)
Suspension: Front McPherson strut, rear torsion beam
MORE INFO
Price (New): P838,888-P928,888
Price (Now): P460,000-P600,000
On Sale: 2013-2016
Rivals: Honda Mobilio, Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Avanza
Resources:
https://www.facebook.com/ChevyClubPh/
Contacts:
Chevrolet Pasig - (02) 672-1485
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