Chevrolet in Malaysia has been very busy these days, after launching two models in one month, first the Sonic Sedan and then now, the Orlando, which has been priced at RM118,888 ($38,896) excluding insurance and roadtax.
The MPV Orlando has a European finishing touch to it, a huge change from the boxy looks, this model is very bold in appearance with a low roofline,tapered rear quarters and a profile that gives the impression of solidity. The Orlando is 4.652-metre long and sits on the same platform as the Chevy Cruze, and so the chassis is quite same as the sedan. The MPV is quite spacious inside, with the space available is 2760 mm between the front and rear axle lines. Three rows of seats are installed in a 2-3-2 configuration so up to 7 persons can be accommodated. Furthermore, when folded, the floorspace is completely flat, the maximum volume if measured up to the ceiling is 1499 litres but if taken up to the window line, it is 856 litres, which is plenty.
As for the engine of the new Orlando, it features a 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder ECOTEC petrol engine, which produces around 141 ps at 6200 rpm and 176 Nm at 3800 rpm, power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed GM Hydramatic automatic transmission, the transmission has Shiftronic which allows the driver to also manually select gears when he or she prefers to do so.
Inside the cabin, it features many design elements which are similar, the layout draws on the dual-cockpit concept, and all controls and switchgear are positioned to be within sight and reach of the driver. Additionally, there are switches on the steering wheel as well. As a safety measure, the Orlando features dual airbags at the front, standard provision of ISOFIX mounting points, the MPV also features a ‘baby mirror’ which flips down from above the rearview mirror. The normal rearview mirror’s angle of view is higher to provide coverage through the rear screen but the ‘baby mirror’ has a wider vertical field of view so the driver can see downwards. It contributes to driving safety by allowing the driver to watch the kids while facing forward, rather than turning around periodically to look. It also features Active Safety features such ABS for the 4-disc brake system, electronic brakeforce distribution and an electronic stability program.
Much more details will be posted soon on Chevy’s Orlando, until then stay tuned in.
