Chevrolet blooms: Orlando minivan First Photos

August 26,2010

Chevrolet is set to introduce a new minivan in Europe next year, called Orlando. The new seven-seat compact SUV is part of a seven-product lineup that the carmaker will launch in the European market in the next 15 months. The Orlando is based on the Cruze compact sedan, which bodes well for its handling and ride characteristics.

Chevy is aiming for a “function with attitude” look with the Orlando’s styling. Based on the first photos, the looks are utilitarian, with the sharp creases and chamfered edges that seem to be the standard these days.

The three-row seating features theater-style arrangement, where the second and third rows are slightly raised to provide a better view for passengers. There’s a Corvette-style dual cockpit dashboard and blue backlighting, similar to the Cruze’s. A unique feature is a storage area hidden behind the audio unit. The stereo can be flipped up to reveal a storage space for electronic gadgets (the worst enemy of cars these days?); the USB port is also in that cavity.

Power will be provided by the familiar 1.8-liter gasoline engine (141 bhp) or a 2.0-diesel with either 131 bhp or 163 bhp. As the Orlando is based on the Cruze, we’re crossing our fingers that Chevrolet Philippines will introduce this soon…but perhaps we can change the name to Miranda?

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