At the 28th annual Salón del Automóvil de São Paulo in Brazil, Chevrolet is showcasing four concepts to whet the appetites of South Americans:
- Chevrolet S10 High Country: South American GM designers used inspiration from the rugged terrain of the western U.S. to create the High Country. With smoked headlights, 18-inch wheels, and chrome window trim, the Chili Red High Country “… has great aerodynamics with a raised profile out back. All of these changes give the impression that the High Country is even bigger than what it is,” says the director of GM South America Design, Carlos Barba. The interior mimics the 2015 Trailblazer, which makes use of two-tone leather upholstery with Brownstone stitching.
- Chevrolet Onix Track Day: Chevrolet has tweaked the suspension, engine, brakes, and exhaust system in this tuner-esque hatchback, with an aerodynamic kit thrown in for good measure. Motivation comes from a 1.8L Ecotec Flex, which is already available on the Brazilian-spec Chevy Cruze. Thanks to the stainless steel exhaust, horsepower should exceed 150. 215/45 R17 racing tires should keep the Onix planted on the ground while cruising Ipanema. Inside you’ll find concave-style seating. “Unlike most of the prototypes for display in salons, this is fully functional and could have gone to [the auto show] rolling [under its own power],” adds Barba.
- Chevrolet Onix Effect: More subtle in appearance and intention is the Onix Effect, which is distinguished by 14-inch rims, aerodynamic package with the obligatory spoilers and smoked light lenses. You’ll find plenty of black trim highlights on this one, from the grille to the B-pillar to the wheels; a swoosh stripe above the rockers and on the hood add to the effect. Inside you’ll find subtle red trim throughout the dashboard, plus a multifunction steering wheel. Under the hood resides a 106-horse 1.4L four.
- Chevrolet Cobalt Red Glory: This personalized concept sedan is mostly ready for production. Sporting Glory Red 16-inch rims, gray radiator trim, smoked headlamps and lights, and a blackened B-pillar, it seems like all that’s needed to hit the streets is for a GM official to give the green light.
The public will be able to see the above vehicles at the 2014 Salón del Automóvil de São Paulo from October 30 through November 9.