CHEVROLET said that it wanted to inject some good old holiday spirit into family outings with its new MPV...and then went and called it the Orlando.
With the current financial predicament of most families, and the budget pretensions of this seven-seat SUV, it might have been better to call it the Chevrolet Cleethorpes.
Whatever the destination, it’s time to weigh-up Chevrolet’s latest device to help you get there...
Here’s my quick five-star guide to the Chevrolet Orlando LTZ VCDi.
Engine: 1,998cc, four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Power: 163bhp and 266lb.ft. of torque
Acceleration: (0-62mph): 9.7 seconds
Top Speed: 121mph
Economy: 47.1mpg
Price: £20,205 (as tested)
Overall rating: * * * * (out of five).
Style: * *
The Orlando’s style is an unusual mixture, like an off-roader that’s been lowered dramatically and sat on smaller wheels and tyres. It’s not wholly cohesive design but the boxy dimensions accommodate seven while remaining reasonably compact.
Specification and Value: * * * *
The LTZ is the range’s most expensive option but comes with cruise control, parking sensors, a bluetooth hands free system and 17 inch alloys.
A rakish dash and and GM-sourced switchgear work well but don’t scream quality, while some of the plastics feel cheap.
Performance: * * *
Powerful, if a tight and little unwilling to rev, the two-litre diesel engine offers strong performance and reasonable economy while vague steering accesses a very direct and grippy front end.
The suspension, though supple most imperfections, can become overwhelmed by a series of small stutter bumps.
Something of a mixed bag.