The Chevrolet Menlo, a new entrant in the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles, particularly in the family car segment, is garnering significant attention for its blend of cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and consumer-focused features. Positioned as a compact car, the Menlo offers a range of variants, showcasing a well-rounded package that promises to meet the diverse needs of modern consumers. In this review, we delve into the specifics of the Chevrolet Menlo, examining its performance, interior, and exterior features to determine whether it lives up to the hype and merits consideration for those in the market for a new electric vehicle.
Performance
The Chevrolet Menlo is equipped with a 177 horsepower permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, delivering a total power output of 130 kilowatts and a torque of 265 Nm. It features a 61.1 kWh ternary lithium battery, supporting both fast charging (0.5 hours) and slow charging (9.5 hours). The car boasts an impressive pure electric range of 518 kilometers. It comes with a single-speed transmission for electric vehicles and is fitted with a front MacPherson independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. The motor provides quick acceleration and responsive power, especially at the start, outperforming similar fuel-based models. The car demonstrates stable body posture control during abrupt braking at 88 km/h, and the suspension tuning is geared towards comfort. The Menlo has a small turning radius, making it convenient for daily use.
Interior
The Chevrolet Menlo's interior adopts a T-shaped layout predominantly in black, giving it a simple and elegant look. The use of soft materials enhances the overall tactile quality. It features a leather steering wheel, a 10-inch all-digital instrument panel, and a 10.1-inch central control screen. The car is equipped with built-in GPS navigation, roadside assistance, Bluetooth/vehicle phone connectivity, mobile phone interconnection mapping, OTA upgrades, and a voice recognition control system. In terms of space, the Menlo measures 4665mm in length, 1813mm in width, and 1538mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2660mm. The seats are made of faux leather, with the driver’s seat supporting electric adjustment, including front-back movement, height adjustment, and backrest angle. The rear seats can be folded in a 40:60 ratio, offering substantial legroom and headroom even for taller passengers.
Exterior
The Chevrolet Menlo features a modern and sleek exterior design. The front fascia adopts a closed grille design with clearly defined contours and sharp, eagle-eye-like headlights. The air intake and lower diffuser align in a line, giving it an aggressive appearance. From the side, the vehicle looks stylish and sharp, with distinct layered lines. The A, B, and C pillars, as well as the wheel arches, are treated with a smoked black effect. The car is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear design is full and rounded, with split-style tail lights that are visually striking at night. The lower part is wrapped in black cladding.
Overall Verdict
As a compact family car, the Chevrolet Menlo stands out with its stylish exterior design, appealing to a broad audience. The interior is finely crafted with black tones and soft materials, offering a refined feel. With a range of 518 kilometers, it is more than adequate for daily use. However, as with any vehicle, the best choice is always the one that best suits the individual’s needs and preferences.