2008 Paris Auto Show Preview: Chevrolet Orlando Concept

DETROIT — General Motors has released images of the Chevrolet Orlando, a small crossover-style vehicle that will be unveiled at the 2008 Paris Auto Show next month. Chevrolet says it is 'considering an expansion to its portfolio' that would add such a seven-seat multipurpose family vehicle to the lineup.Chevrolet based its Orlando on the same platform as the 2011 Cruze compact sedan but carries the design into a five-door vehicle that, it says, combines SUV, minivan and wagon attributes.The design inspiration leans more toward the sport-utility look with the tall body and flared fenders, but toward the minivan with adaptable three-row seating for seven. The cabin with its theatre-style seating is easily transformed into a large cargo area, Chevrolet says.The Orlando is powered by Chevrolet's 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine that makes 150 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.Details about future plans for this showcar have not yet been announced.What this means to you: GM looks for new, more efficiently sized ideas in the people-carrier department. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent