Chevrolet Orlando to launch in 2009, not in U.S.
 

When the Chevrolet Orlando made its world debut at last week’s Paris Motor Show, details seemed to be few and far between. But now that the dust has settled at the Paris show, a few more details about the upcoming people mover have been revealed.

Based on the same Delta platform as the Chevrolet Cruze and Volt, the Orlando will be motivated by a range of gas and diesel powerplants, displacing between 1.6L and 2.0L. According to Motor Authority, the Orlando’s top engine offering will be a 2.0L diesel unit, putting out 150 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Power will be sent through five-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

Although the Orlando will initially be offered exclusively with front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive model will join the lineup later on.

With a 2,760 mm wheelbase (108.7 inches), the Orlando features three rows of seats. The interior appears to be quite similar to the Cruze’s interior, with a waterfall center stack and switchgear out of GM’s current models.

Although the Orlando was originally earmarked for production at GM’s Hamtramck plant, those plans have since been cancelled – along with plans to sell the Orlando in the U.S. GM is still touting the Orlando as a global car but, as in years pasts, it appears as though the term ‘global’ means ‘everywhere but the U.S.’ Instead, the Orlando will be sold in European and Asian markets.

The Orlando’s lack of U.S. availability has solidified the HHR’s future, despite the hatchback riding on the outgoing Cobalt platform.

GM is still finalizing which markets will get a crack at the Orlando, but those Chevrolet dealers in approved regions should begin selling the Orlando in 2009.



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