Chevrolet Malaysia introduces the Orlando MPV
Naza Quest Sdn Bhd has launched Chevrolet’s striking new seven-seat MPV, the Orlando, in a bid to take a substantial stake in Malaysia’s growing MPV market.
An MPV at heart but with ‘crossover’ vehicle styling (a trick also pulled off by the Volkswagen Cross Touran), the Orlando is expected to stand out against more conservatively styled rivals.
To achieve its bold appearance, Chevrolet’s designers adopted a low roofline, tapered rear, prominent wheel arches and crossover-inspired silhouette. It’s still undoubtedly a Chevrolet thanks to its split grille and bow tie at the front, but it adds an interesting third option for Chevrolet fans who lament the loss of the Nabira.
“The Chevrolet Orlando has the aesthetics of an SUV, the convenient size of a crossover and the three-row seating, seven-passenger capacity of a minivan. It’s a refreshing blend of practicality, style and comfort in a value-for-money package with highly competitive running costs,” said Datuk Wira SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of the Naza Group of Companies.
Built on GM’s global Delta platform, Chevrolet claims their new MPV offers excellent ride and handling characteristics and a rewarding driving experience. Its strut front suspension and torsion beam rear end should deliver on these promises though whether or not it will be a main selling point remains to be seen. Most MPV owners place more importance on the interior.
Thankfully for Chevrolet, the inside is as well executed as the exterior. Sporting numerous Chevrolet design cues, the driving environment is both attractive and very functional. Theatre style seating raised maximizes interior space utilization and ensures everybody has a great view out of the large windows. Those in the final row won’t feel cramped either as the Orlando has the most headroom at the back amongst all its rivals.
For maximum load carrying capacity, the Orlando offers a cavernous 1499-litres with the second and third rows folded down. Numerous small compartments within the cabin provide an abundance of handy hideaways. The most distinctive storage feature is hidden behind the front fascia of the stereo making it ideal for placing items such as sunglasses or wallets.
Safety equipment hasn’t been skimped on and this MPV is fitted with two airbags ISOFIX mounts and a raft of electronic driving aids. The doors also automatically unlock upon detection of an impact to ease access to the passenger space.
Power is provided by a 1.8-litre, 16-valve petrol engine that produces 141hp at 6200 rpm and 176 Nm at 3800 rpm. Drive is directed to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission with a claimed economy figure of 12.7km/litre for the combined cycle.
Standard items on the LT trim level include 17” alloy wheels; power steering; height and depth adjustable steering wheel; air conditioner; power side mirrors; rear park assist; cruise control; a full suite of electronic driver aids including ABS, Electronic Stability Programme, Traction Control, and Brake Assist.
Available for order now, the Chevrolet Orlando is priced at RM118,888 with and comes with a 5-year/200,000km warranty.
