GM India may have been embroiled in controversies in recent years, but it’s ready to put its past behind it. With plan to launch two new products every year from this year, until 2020, it’s getting its arsenal of cars ready for an Indian debut.
While the new Beat and Beat based sedan and the Spin MPV are being lined up, its latest launch, the TrailBlazer has already undergone a facelift. On sale in South East Asian markets, the facelifted TrailBlazer will make its India-entry sometime during the festive season. Sold as a CBU, the TrailBlazer is powered by a 2.8-litre, 200 bhp diesel motor that’s mated to an automatic transmission. Currently offered only in two-wheel drive guise, expect Chevrolet to continue with this trim, however the 4WD can’t be ruled out, if Chevrolet intends to expand its appeal.
The facelift has been a deliberate attempt to infuse a premium appeal to the TrailBlazer. Adopting a similar design focus as its international SUV and truck lineup, the car loses its bulbous nose for a more squatter one with a clamshell hood, while the tail lamps replicate the headlamp’s treatment. On the inside, a cleaner looking dash with GM’s new MyLink audio unit occupies prime space.
In the meanwhile, the company has deferred its plan to launch the Spin from 2016 to 2017. Originally part of the 2016 launch, GM intends to bring in the Beat first before bringing in the Spin in the first-half of 2017. Based on the new Gamma II platform, it is intended to replace the Enjoy MPV and will take on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and the Honda Mobilio with its 1.3-litre, Multijet diesel motor.