It seems that many of us, including this writer, felt excited when The Covenant Car Company Inc (TCCCI)—exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet vehicles—announced last year the arrival of the new Orlando. At one point, we really thought that the Chevy Orlando would be somehow a replacement of the bigger diesel-fed Chevrolet Captiva.

Until recently, we had the chance to test-drive the new Chevrolet Orlando for a long weekend. And this is what we got on this spanking 7-seater vehicle.

Outside, we really love the striking Crossover design of the Orlando. For those who don’t know what Crossover means, it is a vehicle built on a car platform that combines with sports utility vehicle features. The exterior body is sure to attract plenty of attention. There are split radiator grille with chrome bar, roof rail, Manual Rear Liftgate, side turn signal lamps, power fold side mirrors, front and rear fog lamps, and 16-inch aluminum wheels that completes the incredible ride.

 

 

Inside, you’ll see its versatility. In fact, as I stepped inside with the new Orlando I felt like I was driving the Chevrolet Cruze—which awarded last year as winner of the Car-of-the-Year (Philippines). Despite having the same DNA inside, the Chevy Orlando is absolutely different! The new Orlando is equipped with convenient features such as cruise control, auto climate control, auto on/off headlamps, rain-sensing auto wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and power folding side mirror for a stress-free driving over short or long travel.

 

 

Whether you plan to have an out of town trip or to pick up furniture at your favorite store, the Orlando can adjust to either of your preferences with ease. The second row is capable of 60:40 folding while the third row seats can be folded individually to give the user maximum space flexibility. With the Split Folding Seating option, you can easily reconfigure the seats to accommodate large cargo, allowing you to go from family outings to everyday errands with no trouble at all.

Meanwhile, the Orlando doesn’t disappoint with its overall trim and dashboard paint inserts.  Its indoor coziness is even more enhanced with a climate control system and an entertainment system that includes an advanced infotainment display.  The audio system has RD Radio, CD player with MP3 compatibility, Auxiliary input and iPod connectivity through USB port. The Orlando has a total of 6 speakers for an optimum sound experience.

 

 

Now let’s go with the engine. Just like the Cruze, the Chevy Orlando has a 1.8-liter DOHC ECOTEC DCVVT engine designed for maximum fuel efficiency. On our test, we consumed a decent 10/L per kilometers on mixed city and highway driving. But on average drive consumption on city with [most traffic], the Orlando can only achieved 7 kilometer per liter.

Power is always there with the Orlando; however, when you have 7-passengers on board, it feels under power. I also noticed when the transmission is engaging on first and second gear, the engine felt like humming as if he can’t survive on a long drive. I guess that’s what when power-to-weight ratio comes in. But that would be more appreciated if Chevy can come out with a diesel-fed engine. Though, in other countries, the Orlando has petrol and diesel variants.

 

 

While the suspension for the new Orlando is essentially conventional, it features some clever detailing to the enhance better ride and handling. Thanks to the McPherson Strut at [front] and Axle compound crank at the [rear] suspension. Though, when driving with only two passengers, the suspension tends to make noise and bit shaky at the rear when going over potholes.

 

 

In terms of safety, the Orlando spares no detail in providing the following safety and security features in its arsenal.  For families with small children, the Orlando has the Child IsoFix restraint system, Child proof locks on rear doors and Seat Belt Warning Indicator in place as a guarantee that safety comes first even before your drive has even begun.

And while on the road, features like the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that help give a worry-free journey.  Furthermore, the Orlando is equipped with driver, passenger side airbags and Crash Sensor Technology that reinforces the safety of the driver and passenger in case of vehicle collision.

With the price pegged at P1,188,888 million, the Chevrolet Orlando is a perfect choice for a growing Filipino family. A compact MPV that works for your business and family!

 

WHAT’s GOOD

• Looks
• Impressive package
• Good driving dynamics and versatility inside
• Drives like a car, and packaged as minivan
• Spacious and safety features

WHAT’s BAD

• Need upgrade of engine
• Noise and vibration occurs

 

 

CATEGORY                                       Multi-purpose vehicle

ENGINE                                              1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve Inline-4

MAX. OUTPUT                                141 ps @ 6,200 rpm

MAX. TORQUE                                176 Nm @ 3,8000 rpm

LENGTH                                              4652 mm

Height                                                   1633 mm

Width                                                   1836 mm

Wheelbase                                          2760 mm

Transmission                                   6-speed AT with tiptronic feature

WHEELS & TIRES                           215 / 60 R16

SUSPENSION                                    (F) McPherson Strut (R) Axle Compound crank

Price as tested                                  P 1.188,888 million