CHEVROLET M3X CITY CAR CONCEPT

Chevrolet's M3X show car offers a glimpse of the next generation of the popular Matiz city-car, the production version of which will be on sale in the market in spring 2005. One particularly striking feature of the study is its round LED front headlamp design, which is matched at the rear by the round tail lights. The overall style of the M3X conveys a strong dynamic effect, due to a combination of the short body overhangs, the steeply rising shoulder line and the converging feature lines in the bonnet area. A roof spoiler underlines the sporty look of the car, as do the twin, centrally positioned exhaust pipes and the large 16-inch alloy wheels with their double-spoke design. There are side indicators below the front headlamps and, for added safety, in the side mirrors. The large, glass panorama roof highlights an exceptionally light interior. The roof can be pushed half way back to provide plenty of fresh air. It also allows a clear view into the spacious cabin, which, in this study, is dominated by blue fabric and metal applications on the gear lever, steering wheel and air vents.

Despite its easy-to-park dimensions (just 3.5 m long and 1.5 m wide), the M3X feels surprisingly roomy inside. At 1.5 m, it stands taller than most city cars and the wheelbase of just under 2.35 m is also above average. This means that, due to its high seating position, the M3X can comfortably accommodate four adults. The study offers effective additional luggage accommodation with roof rails, which not only underline the car's sporty appearance, but also make it easy to attach any kind of carrier system. Even when fully loaded, the engine of the M3X will provide sufficient performance: the smooth and economical 1.0-litre four-cylinder engine generates 47 kW/64 hp at 5,400 rpm and a top speed in excess of 90 miles per hour.

(Source: GM, 22 September 2004)