The upcoming Orlando minivan, which shares its platform with the Cruze, is another one of Chevrolet's upcoming attempts to rectify its sub-par image as a brand. How has the MPV developed since it debuted as an attractive concept two years ago to woo European car buyers? Well, it still seats seven and will get both gasoline and diesel four-cylinder engines as promised, but unfortunately, it's put on some flab over the concept's original well-toned lines. While GM has yet to release photos of the interior, expect a modern Chevrolet cabin very similar to the concept.
Debut (Concept): 2008 Paris Mondial de l'Automobile
Debut (Production): 2010 Paris Mondial de l'Automobile
Lost in translation: the aggressive, rising belt line in favor for a wider daylight opening; the retractable side skirts; the swept-back headlights and squat stance, plus the concept's shapely taillights, which have been replaced by a pair of rather mundane, peaked units that flow with the backlight's corner kinks.
But we got to keep: the chunky wheel arches (but not as well-executed as the concept's), and very likely, the interior design and 7-seat setup.
And gained: From what I can see, not much. The production Orlando is looking to meet Chevrolet's goal of providing a compact, 7-seat MPV, but has lost some of the traits that made it appealing visually as a concept.
Engine range: A 1.8-liter petrol unit producing 141-horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel available in two flavors, with 131HP and 163HP.
Where is it now?: Getting prepped for its first public outing at next month's Paris motor show before it goes on sale in Europe in early 2011. There are no plans to market the Orlando in the States.
By Phil Alex
2011 Chevrolet Orlando MPV
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2008 Chevrolet Orlando MPV Concept Study
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