Bangkok – Three Chevrolet models were, this week recognised as “Car of the year 2008” in their respective classes by automotive publisher Grand Prix International. The Captiva SUV, Optra sedan and the Colorado all received this accolade in the same year, the first time that this has occurred in Chevrolet’s eight years in Thailand.
The three vehicles ordinarily compete in vastly different categories and are among the top sellers in some important markets for General Motors. Each of these vehicles was judged as offering class-leading safety, luxury and overall quality.
The Captiva, also popular in the UK and a recent introduction to the South African market, is an SUV with uncompromising standards, a true seven seater with plenty of space and luxury to offer the ultimate comfort in its class. It also comes with a choice of three impressive engines, a two litre turbo diesel, a 2.4 litre petrol engine and the top of the range 3.2 litre V6 producing 169kW and 297Nm from just 3200r/min.
The Colorado is different from the Captiva in that its styling is more rugged in a classic Chevrolet kind of way. It’s an all round pick-up truck offered mainly in the North American market specifically designed and built for robust durability. The Colorado 3.0 litre 4X4 is considered the best performing pick up truck in its class.
Competing in a different category all together, the Optra is an optical delicacy. Chevrolet went back to basics on this one: safety, practicality, luxury and performance are highly emphasized in this modern sedan. Available with precisely engineered 1.6 and 1.8 litre engines, the Optra is great value for money. All three models are hugely deserving of the award presented to them by Grand Prix International. The criteria that each model had to meet include design, comfort, fuel economy, handling, eco-friendliness, customer satisfaction and value for money. The awards are reserved only for the best of the best.
