New Chevrolet crossover for Paris

Alongside the new Cruze saloon, Chevrolet will display a pre-production version of its new seven-seat crossover at next month's Paris Show.

For now the car is tagged the Orlando 'show car', though it's clear that the production model won't be significantly different, as there is little in the way of concept car extravagance.

Instead, the Orlando features a practical and versatile seven-seat interior and a shapely dashboard, all contained within the 2,760mm wheelbase of the new Chevrolet Cruze platform.

Taking styling cues from the Chevy Trax concept car, the Orlando mixes chunky off-roader looks with MPV functionality. Hinting at imminent sales in Europe is the fitment of a 150bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel.

Expect the final production version of the Orlando to debut at the Detroit Show in January, with UK sales beginning later in 2009.

Shane O' Donoghue