Chevy MPV takes aim at Zafira

This is the car that is set to launch Chevrolet into the seven-seater MPV sector. Built on the same General Motors’ Delta platform as the new Cruze saloon, the distinctive Orlando will be a crossover between a sport utility vehicle and a people carrier.

With its wide stance, the Orlando’s exterior styling is typically American, while inside there is plenty of room divided between the three rows of seats.

The seven-seater MPV segment is new territory for Chevrolet. However, the US maker has rivals such as the Vauxhall Zafira and new Nissan Qashqai+2 firmly in its sights, and will undercut both models with a starting price of £14,000.

Under the bonnet, the sporty people carrier will use Chevrolet’s latest-generation 2.0-litre turbodiesel, delivering 150bhp of power and a punchy 320Nm of torque. There are also plans to introduce the 113bhp 1.6-litre and 138bhp 1.8 petrol engine from the Cruze.

The all-new Chevy will make its world premiere at next month’s Paris Motor Show. A production version is scheduled to debut at the Frankfurt expo next year, with the first models reaching British showrooms soon after in late 2009.

Meanwhile, Chevrolet has also released the first official picture of its stunning Camaro SS super-coupé. Not due to be released until 2010, the all-American muscle car will feature a monstrous 6.2-litre V8 powerplant delivering 422bhp and 572Nm of torque.