The latest of 10 new model launches that have renewed 90% of the Chevrolet range in Brazil in just 20 months, the Prisma has arrived to contest a segment filled with no less than 18 small saloons ranging in price from BRL26,000/US$13,000 to BRL55,000/$22,500.
The Prisma, saloon derivative of the Onix hatchback, has inherited the model name used by a previous model derived from the Celta, a South American model based on the 1994 Opel Corsa and still in production. The new Prisma is based on the GSV (global small vehicle) architecture jointly developed by the GM units in Brazil and South Korea.
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Prices range from BRL34,990/$17,500 (LT trim, one-litre engine) to BRL45,990/$23,000 (LTZ, 1.4-litre).
Compact saloons are virtually non-existent in northern Europe but are popular in Brazil, Latin America, Australia and the US.
Compared to the Onix, the Prismas is 9% longer at 4,275mm and fractionally shorter than the rival Fiat Grand Siena. The Prisma is just 12 kg/26.4lb heavier than the Onix and Prisma.
There is plenty of room inside, rear seats included, and doors open wide for easy access. Even the entry version has standard hydraulic power steering, front power windows, height-adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat cushion, park guidance and the ABS brakes and front airbags now compulsory in Brazil.
The top version offers an optional LCD touch screen enabling installation of a reversing camera and navigator coupled to smartphone application BringGo.
GM Brazil has just opened a new engine plant with annual capacity of 200,000 in Joinville, Santa Catarina, at a cost of $175m.
New engine generations are expected from there (including, possibly, a three-cylinder). Local production of six-speed manual transmissions is also expected with an eye on exports when European markets recover.
