The Chevrolet Montana II 1.4 (94/99 Hp) Econo.Flex is a compact pickup truck produced by Chevrolet from 2011 to 2021. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Montana II range, this variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient utility vehicle for both commercial and personal use. It represented a significant update to the original Montana, built on a strengthened and refined platform, and was particularly popular in the South American market, especially Brazil, where it was designed and manufactured. The “Econo.Flex” designation highlights its capability to run on both gasoline and ethanol (E85) fuel, a common feature in Brazilian vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Montana |
| Generation | Montana II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (94/99 Hp) Econo.Flex |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 86.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 119 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 94 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.7 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 99 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 129 Nm @ 3200 rpm, 95.15 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 132 Nm @ 3200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1389 cm3, 84.76 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.6 mm, 3.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm, 2.89 in. |
| Compression ratio | 12.4:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l, 3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.5 l, 5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1084 kg, 2389.81 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1857 kg, 4093.98 lbs |
| Max load | 773 kg, 1704.17 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l, 14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal |
| Length | 4514 mm, 177.72 in |
| Width | 1700 mm, 66.93 in |
| Width including mirrors | 1918 mm, 75.51 in |
| Height | 1578-1630 mm, 62.13 – 64.17 in |
| Wheelbase | 2669 mm, 105.08 in |
| Front track | 1429 mm, 56.26 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1439 mm, 56.65 in |
| Front overhang | 844 mm, 33.23 in |
| Rear overhang | 1001 mm, 39.41 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 138-150 mm, 5.43 – 5.91 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m, 37.07 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14; 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14; 6J x 15; 6J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Montana II 1.4 Econo.Flex is powered by a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated as a member of the GM Family I/II series, is known for its simplicity and relatively low production cost. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s 12.4:1 compression ratio is relatively high, contributing to its efficiency, especially when running on ethanol. The Econo.Flex capability allows the engine to operate on gasoline, ethanol, or any blend of the two, with the engine control unit (ECU) automatically adjusting fuel delivery and ignition timing to optimize performance and emissions for the fuel being used. When running on E85 ethanol, the engine produces 99 hp, a noticeable increase over the 94 hp produced on gasoline. The engine is paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and everyday drivability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine, producing 94 hp and 129 Nm of torque, provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is modest, and the vehicle is best suited for city driving and light-duty tasks. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but frequent downshifting is often required for overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to higher-trim Montana II models equipped with larger engines, such as the 1.8-liter, the 1.4 Econo.Flex feels noticeably slower. However, the lower engine displacement and optimized tuning contribute to better fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but the torsion beam rear suspension can result in a somewhat bumpy ride, especially when the vehicle is loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Econo.Flex Montana II typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and auxiliary input. Interior upholstery was typically vinyl or a basic cloth material. Safety features included dual front airbags and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Optional extras, depending on the year and market, could include power windows and locks, central locking, and a more advanced audio system. The trim level was generally considered the base model, focusing on affordability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Montana II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing reasonable handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution but offers less sophisticated handling characteristics compared to independent rear suspension. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle helps to compensate for the less powerful engine and basic braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Montana II 1.4 Econo.Flex was well-received in the Brazilian market as an affordable and versatile pickup truck. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ability to run on both gasoline and ethanol. However, the engine’s limited power output was a common criticism. Compared to the 1.8-liter Montana II, the 1.4 offered significantly lower performance but also a lower purchase price and better fuel economy. The 1.4 Econo.Flex appealed to buyers who prioritized practicality and affordability over performance, such as small business owners and urban commuters.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Montana II 1.4 Econo.Flex remains a popular choice in the used car market in Brazil and other South American countries. The 1.4-liter engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The availability of parts is good, and repair costs are relatively low. The Econo.Flex powertrain’s ability to run on ethanol contributes to its long-term appeal, as ethanol is often more affordable than gasoline in these markets. While not a performance icon, the Montana II 1.4 Econo.Flex served as a practical and economical workhorse for many owners, and continues to offer a viable transportation solution in the used car market today.
