Chevrolet releases details of the Orlando MPV

The production model looks similar to the Orlando MPV concept that was first seen at the Paris Motor Show in 2008, but has removed most of the concept's aggressive styling details, to keep the car looking conservative.

The Orlando is set to compete against the likes of the Mazda 5 and Opel Zafira when it goes on sale in early 2011. GM plans to release the car worldwide, with the exception of the US where the company has said it will not market the Orlando.

Chevrolet has not released any pictures of the Orlando's interior, but said that it will have a "Corvette inspired dual cockpit and ambient blue backlighting to the centre console". The Orlando will be able to accommodate seven passengers in three rows of seats and offer a variety of seating configurations as well as a range of storage compartments.

The Orlando is based on GM's Delta platform, which is also used on the Chevrolet Cruze and Opel Astra, and the front-wheel-drive MPV will be available with a 1.8-litre petrol engine that produces 141bhp, and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel with either 131bhp or 163bhp.

"We're confident the Orlando not only brings great value for money to the MPV class but also something fresh - function with attitude if you like - and the opportunity for us to continue building our volume across Europe," said Wayne Brannon, president and managing director for Chevrolet Europe. "I believe it will also bring more new customers to the Chevrolet brand."