Chevrolet’s upcoming Orlando – its first-ever European-style MPV is headed to Asia and more importantly Naza Quest showrooms in Malaysia in the coming months, the Orlando is a three-row MPV that had initially been slated to replace the automaker’s aging HHR in the American and European market. Now it will be sold globally. The Chevrolet Orlando is a boldly designed family vehicle that’s as versatile on the inside as it is stunning on the outside. One moment it’s transporting seven people in comfort , the next the seats are down and it’s full of furniture or luggage. With its multiple seating combinations the Orlando is a supremely adaptable vehicle.
The Orlando is based on Chevrolet’s global Cruze sedan that is already selling here. Under the hood there is a choice of three of Chevrolet’s latest fuel efficient engines: one petrol engine will be available, a 1.8-liter with power output of 141 horsepower, as well as two diesel units. The diesel engine can be had in two power outputs, 131 horsepower, or 163 horsepower, but both will be just 2.0-liters in displacement. For Malaysian market only the petrol 1.8-liter will arrive (this engine is shared with the Cruze) and the diesels will have to wait for better diesel fuel to arrive in Malaysia.
With a 2,760 mm wheelbase (108.7 inches), the Orlando can accommodate up to three rows of seats. The interior appears to be quite similar to the Chevy Cruze’s interior, with a waterfall center stack and switchgear out of GM’s current models. Although the Orlando will initially be offered exclusively with front-wheel drive, an all-wheel drive model will join the lineup later on.
Customers will get a high end trim level with standard equipment on all cars including electronic stability control, six air-bags, air conditioning, three 12v power sockets, rear parking sensors, climate control and a high end stereo, 17-inch alloys, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers and power-folding door mirrors. There are a plethora of cubbies for storing small items, including a Volvo-style space behind the stereo fascia.
Watch for information confirming its release date here in Malaysia. We suspect it will be launched sometime in the middle of 2011 possaibly at the screening of Transformers 3 in all local cinemas.
