My White Whale: The Chevrolet Orlando Concept aka MPV-7

And so it appears. The car I've long blogged about. The vehicle I've peppered Ed Peper (say that three times in a hurry) with so many questions about. This is the concept is what I believe to be the fabled (well, fabled at least in my mind) Delta-based MPV-7: the little brother to the Traverse. My hopes are that this vehicle, with the right powertrain, could deliver terrific mileage to go along with seven seat capacity. Amazing mileage numbers are certainly capable with the concept's turbo diesel engine, but I doubt that we'd see that configuration for our market. However, a small displacement, direct injection, turbo mill could also yield fine results.

Since they are related, I've pasted the spy-shot of the Chevrolet Cruze's interior so that you can compare and contrast. Obviously, the spy-shot is of a higher trim level, with navigation and other festoonery but they are pretty darn close: definitely in the same family.

Below is GM's official press release:

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.