05 May 05
GM-Daewoo unveiled its T2X concept car, a short-wheelbase version of the S3X shown last year. This is to be launched as a Chevrolet in Europe at the Frankfurt Motor Show this autumn. It's described as combining "the body of a compact sport utility vehicle with the exciting design of a sport coupe" and also "represents one of the future design directions for GM-Daewoo." The concept car has rear-hinged back doors and no B-pillars, which will probably not make it to the production version (expected to be a three-door, to distinguish it from the larger S3X, which will go into production in summer 2006). It is finished with a removable glass roof panel, a blue and orange interior with fabric-covered upper surfaces, fully-folding rear seats and additional storage space down the roof's central 'spine'. The basic structure of the T2X and S3X will also underpin the upcoming new Vauxhall/Opel Frontera range. GM-Daewoo, which retains its familiar name in Korea although its products are now sold under the Chevrolet brand in Europe, the USA and other regions, also showed its new Statesman saloon - its first rear-wheel drive luxury car. Now part of the General Motors empire, Daewoo has access to technology and components from other GM brands; the Statesman shares its underpinnings and 3.6-litre engine with the Australian Holden Commodore. Suspended from the ceiling on the GM-Daewoo stand was the Lacetti WTCC (World Touring Car Championships) racer.
