Paris Preview: Chevrolet Orlando MPV to debut, Sequel gets real

The compact MPV that we've been seeing spy photos of for the last several months and referring to as the Chevy Tacuma now has an official name and introduction date. What now looks more like a crossover will be debut next month in Paris as the Chevrolet Orlando. The Orlando is built off the same Delta compact platform as the new Chevy Cruze and the Volt. In fact, the Orlando is likely to be the MPV that was identified last fall to be built at GM's Detroit Hamtramck plant alongside the Volt. If the Orlando pictured above looks vaguely familiar it's because it draws a lot from the stying of the Chevy Sequel fuel cell concept, particularly in the side glass and the overall proportions. The Orlando has three row seating for seven (although that third row is likely to be very snug. GM hasn't given any indication of whether the Orlando will be offered in the U.S. although the fact that it will likely be built here certainly points in that direction. If it's built alongside the Volt, an E-Flex version would seem like a good choice as well.

[Source: General Motors]

Chevrolet Orlando show car signals entry into new segment for the brand

Paris Motor Show Preview: First Images of the seven-seat multi-purpose family vehicle

Detroit - The Orlando show car, making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October, is a clear indication that Chevrolet is considering an expansion to its portfolio with a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle with distinctive sport utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.

Based on the recently announced all-new Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando show car carries Chevrolet's signature design language into a new vehicle segment. It explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.

Chevrolet Orlando cuts a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional monocab proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. With flared fenders instead of a flat side-body, Orlando has a muscular stance that gives it the appearance of a sport utility vehicle, yet it offers dynamic ride and handling, excellent fuel efficiency and easy entry thanks to its car-based architecture.

Inside, the five-door Orlando is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. Whenever load carrying becomes a priority, the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area. A generous 2760 mm wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks provide Orlando with outstanding interior roominess.

Chevrolet's latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque, provides a powerful and fuel efficient powertrain.

Following the recent announcement of the all-new Cruze sedan, the Orlando show car promises another page in Chevrolet's product portfolio and another step in Chevrolet's plan to offer customers around the globe impressive value, quality and fuel efficiency.