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The 2012 Chevrolet Orlando

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May 092012

Chevrolet Orlando – New 2012 UK Model

Chevrolet Orlando 7 Seat MPV - Exterior View

The 2012 Orlando is the stylish new MPV from Chevrolet. Its seven-seat capacity is being marketed as a flexible storage option, thanks to the ability to fold down the back two rows of seats. This makes it ideal for consumers who need to transport not only a family, but maybe luggage, shopping, equipment or animals too.

Chevrolet Orlando – Purchase Price

The entry level standard LS model is priced at around £16,825.00. The Orlando LT and LTZ are priced at £17,925 and £18,725 respectively. Not only do you get a reasonably priced seven seat MPV for your money all Chevrolets sold in the United Kingdom also come with a very generous five year warranty. The basic colour is Summit White but for an extra £410 you can choose from another five colours; Carbon Flash, Pewter Grey, Velvet Red, Ice Silver or Smokey Grey.

Chevrolet Orlando 7 Seat MPV - With Child Car Seat

Chevrolet Orlando – Speed

Top speed ranges from 111 miles per hour to over 121 miles per hour. Reaching 62 mpg takes from 10.3 seconds.

Chevrolet Orlando – History

The basis of the Chevolet Orlando is reminiscent of the previous Cruze sedan model, only slightly less streamlined and with straighter edges. Surprisingly, Chevrolet has opted for five hinged doors rather than sliding ones, which is less conventional for an MVP. Similarities to the Chevrolet Cruze include smoothness and comfort when driving, minimal noise and responsive steering.

Chevrolet Orlando – Performance

The Orlando handles very well for an MPV, and is powerful enough to carry heavy loads; however, performance is limited when fully-loaded. As for technical specifications, A GM direct-injection 2.4 litre EcoTec engine powers the vehicle, producing 174 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The Chevrolet Orlando is available with both manual and automatic gearboxes. Interior features and accessories include A/C, leather steering wheel, cup holders and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

Chevrolet Orlando – Extras

However, there is a range of versions available to suit the needs of the individual consumers. For example, the LS 1.8L model has heated mirrors, a driver’s armrest, power mirrors and telescopic steering. An upgrade to the 2.0L model gives you a leather steering wheel with radio and MP3 controls, climate control and heated seats, along with other extras. Each model guarantees high level accessories and equipment, and traction control is standard for all models. LT and LTZ models also come with parking assist.
The Orlando’s interior is a ‘Corvette-inspired dual cockpit’ that is stylishly designed with simple controls. The display is illuminated by blue lighting, and controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel.

Chevrolet Orlando – Seating

Seating is thoughtfully designed, will extra touches for comfort and ease of use. The two back rows of seating are tiered so all passengers have a good view and are comfortable. Both the second and the third rows can also be folded into the floor for versatile storage, so the vehicle can be used like a mini-bus or like a van, depending on the needs of the user.

Chevrolet Orlando People Carrier - Interior Seating

Chevrolet Orlando – Fuel Efficiency

This model is ideal for consumers who need a versatile vehicle that can adjust to different loads and uses. It’s a modern and stylish answer to the people carrier. However, it’s not just limited to people. As well as functionality and style, the Orlando is also efficient. Emissions and fuel economy are from 159g/km and average fuel consumption is 47.1mpg (LT 2. VCDi). According to GM, the Chevrolet Orlando is the most fuel-efficient 7-seater on the market, excluding hybrid vehicles such as the Toyota Prius+, (Hybrid 7-Seater from Toyota). The fuel tank has a 64 litre capacity.

Chevrolet Orlando People Carrier - Boot Space

Chevrolet Orlando – Safety

Safety is a prime feature of the Orlando, with six airbags and the latest airbag technology. It has a high-strength reinforced steel cage to reduce any impact caused by collisions, and aluminium crumple zones for extra safety. As a result, the Orlando was one of the best performers during 2011 European crash-testing.

Chevrolet Orlando – Dimensions

Width, Height and Length are 1.836m, 4.652m and 1.633m respectively. The Boot space with all the seven seats up is 101litres. This increases to 1594 litres with the second and third row seats folded flat. Headroom for the third row is 945mm and legroom is 753mm. The shoulder room is 1307mm.

Chevrolet Orlando – Conclusion

I have to say I am particulary impressed with the quality of information that Chevrolet produce about their Orlando. Not only do they give very detailed information on safety, car seat and other features and specifications they also give measurements for third and second row seating room. Top marks for this from me.

Acura MDX Vs 2013 Infiniti JX

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May 052012

Currently Unavailable in UK

Before you get exited about the Acura MDX and the Infinity JX seven seat vehicles I have to point out that they are both currently unavailable in the United Kingdom. That’s not to say that they won’t be in the future. You could get them as an import car or perhaps as a rental abroad; either way read on and see which is best.

Infinity JX - American SUV with Seven Seats (Interior)

Acura MDX

The Acura MDX first appeared on the scene 11 years ago as an SUV offering both luxury and value. MDX stands for ‘Multi-Dimensional Luxury’ and this model offers just that. When the Acura MDX debuted, it was totally different to any of its competitors; it was the first car of its kind to have a third row of seats. There is now a 2012 model available.

Infinity JX

Nissan’s Infiniti JX was a development of the idea originally introduced by the Acura MDX, a luxury vehicle that doesn’t compromise value. This model is built on a slightly elongated Nissan Murano platform.

Family Target Market

The target market for both of these vehicles remains the same. They’re both aimed at families which want a level of luxury from their SUV without a hefty price tag, and they both have four-wheel drive.

MDX vs JX Comparison

So how do the two compare? For a start, the MDX is slightly more expensive, at almost $3000 (£1,800) more than the Infinity JX. As far as power goes, the MDX is driven by a slightly lager a 3.7 litre VG engine than the 3.5 litre V6 in the JX. This causes a difference in torque, as the MDX provides 300hp and 270lb/ft, while the JX gives 265hp and 248 lb/ft. This could give the MDX a slight competitive edge, depending on what the consumer is looking for. However, this feature might not be at the top of most family car buyer’s priority list.

Acura MDX - American 7 Seater Car

Aesthetic Comparison

Where aesthetics are concerned, the Infiniti JX seems to have the advantage. With its sleek and rounded design, it is easier on the eye than the harsh straight edges of the MDX, giving it a sleeker and more modern look. Both models have luxurious interiors, but are very different. The MDX is more modern and hi-tech, whereas the JX has taken a simpler approach. Whether or not these are desirable will depend entirely on the individual wants of the consumer.

Safety Comparison

The JX has tapped into one major concern of its target market – safety. As a result, it features intelligent technology to increase the safety of passengers. For example, it has sensors to tell the driver when other vehicles or pedestrians are approaching the car during manoeuvres. It also uses automatic breaking to control the lane position of the car during motorway driving. The JX is also slightly more fuel efficient due to its continuously-variable transmission, which could be another draw for families looking to buy one of these cars.

Infinity JX - American SUV with Seven Seats

Competitive Advantage

As a fresher and more modern vehicle, the Infiniti JX may have a competitive advantage over the MDX. The MDX is not a new concept and already has market presence, so consumers may not be so attracted to this option. However, this could appeal to loyal customers who are less willing to take a risk on an unfamiliar new model.

Overall, the JX seems to be the strongest contender due to its more modern style and features. However, the two bear a striking comparison and each have their own advantages to offer.