While the iconic Chevrolet nameplate is on its way out in the European market, the brand is committing to gaining crucial market share in some of the world’s newest car-consuming countries like Egypt and Algeria, along with the still booming Chinese market. The latest example of which is the new Chevrolet Optra, which was spied on the road recently, and is heavily based on the current Baojun 630 sedan sold in China.
Mechanically speaking, the Optra is not much to write home about, with power from a 1.5 liter straight-four producing a dainty 112 hp and a slightly more peppy 143 hp, 1.8L powerplant available on the highest trim level. Â Underpinning this Chinese sedan is the original Chinese Buick Excelle chassis which in turn, is derived from a nearly 13-year old Daewoo Lacetti.
Styling-wise, the Optra is actually pretty fresh and modern, with an appealing exterior resembling the acclaimed 2014 Impala. There’s also a fairly well-equipped cabin for a vehicle in such a price category.
Regardless of the Chevy’s most humble origins, GM is hoping to capture some vital sales throughout Africa and is searching  for unclaimed brand loyalty with the continent’s newest consumers. Pricing is said to begin at a modest 62,800 yuan in the Chinese Market or approximately $10,200 USD. The first deliveries of the Chevrolet Optra set to arrive in Northern Africa some 3 months from now.
For a gallery of spy photos, visit Car News China.
Comments
Seems good but hope that its a good car a a Chinese one, the delta platform is a good, i had a 2005 Optra and i like it, it was Korean one. If this car is well built there still be a little problem to face the French low cost cars as the Renault Symbol, the 301 and Elysé from Peugeot Citroen and the symbole sister, the Dacia Logan, as they have a good reputation and Chevrolet a bad one caused by the Aveo 2 (aka Daewoo Gentra ) and the Sail.
In addition Chevrolet have the 1.4 turbo 138 hp which could be a good thing when facing the economical low coast cars. Even a diesel engine could be good.
As an Algerian GM fan i can’t buy other brand cars, but when i see the product range of Chevrolet and Opel, i just feel petty for those two brands, many people in Algeria thinks that Chevrolet is Chinese and its hard to explain that Chevy is brand bigger than Renault and Peugeot Citroen.