Although the Brazilian minivan market is facing a severe slump (Citroën finally discontinued the outdated Xsara Picasso this month), General Motors has launched the new Spin based on the global, small car platform that underpins the Sonic and the Brazilian Cobalt sedan – this new model will be produced in Indonesia as well.
The Spin was designed at the São Caetano do Sul (Greater São Paulo) tech centre, close by the plant where it has begun production replacing both the (previous generation) Meriva (Corsa-based) and the (also previous generation) Zafira (Astra-based). Both of those minivans were built at the São José dos Campos plant, 94km (58 miles) east of São Paulo.
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The Spin will reach showrooms in the second week of July in five-and seven-seat versions, albeit with the same overall length (4.36m/174in). One of its main competitors, the Nissan Livina/Grand Livina, comes in different lengths according to seating capacity and this is aesthetically not as attractive.
The Fiat Idea and Citroën C3 Picasso are the other remaining monovolume minivans made here, both offered as five-seat versions only. Unusually, the Honda Fit (Jazz) is pitched to the Brazilian market as a monovolume model though in other countries it is considered a raised-roof hatchback.
As with other recent GM launches here in Brazil, Spin styling may not please everyone. The automaker has indeed focused more on functionality and good visibility as the car’s strongest features.
A 2.62m/103in wheelbase falls short of the Zafira’s by 8cm/3.1in yet interior space remains good. Load volume ranges from 710l/25cu ft (5 seater) to 162l/5.7cu ft (7 seater). The 1.8-litre/110cu in engine now pumps out 108cv/106bhp (6cv/5.9bhp less than the current one on pure ethanol) in order to improve economy.
Two trim levels are available, the 5-seat LT and the 7-seat LTZ, competitively priced from R$44,590 (US$22,000) to R$50,990 ($25,200). A six-speed automatic gearbox is optional in lieu of the standard manual five-speeder.
Meanwhile, GM has started a buyout at the São José dos Campos plant. With the Meriva and Zafira axed, only part of its labour force will need to switch to the S10 and Blazer range (this new SUV will be launched in two months).
Successive, seemingly endless union conflicts in São José dos Campos convinced the automaker to increase production at São Caetano do Sul’s oldest (1930) yet refurbished plant, where GM’s’ local headquarters also is based, on a three-shift regime.
There is also an ongoing buyout in São Caetano but for different reasons: to benefit workers close to retirement and in tune with the local union’s wishes.
Earlier report: GM Brazil announces Spin
