Chevrolet Beat Activ, Essentia, new Beat launch in India confirmed

American car maker General Motors (GM) has confirmed that it will launch the Chevrolet Beat Activ soft-roader, Essentia compact sedan and the new Beat hatchback under the Chevrolet brand in India. GM unveiled the Beat Activ and the Essentia as concepts at the Auto Expo 2016 and a positive response seems to have prompted the company to give green signal for the models.

"There was an overwhelming response from our Indian stakeholders to the Beat Activ when we revealed it at the Auto Expo in Delhi. As a soft-roader, the vehicle is ready for any adventure or challenge, while its interior ensures the driver remains comfortable and connected. The next exciting wave of Chevrolet products to hit the Indian market soon will include a spirited lineup- the new Beat, Essentia and Beat Activ," said Kaher Kazem, president and managing director of GM India, in a statement.

The Beat Essentia is a notchback model based on the next generation Beat hatchback platform, while the Beat Activ is a jazzed up model of the hatchback. GM says both the cars are specifically designed at the GM Korea Design Studio to suit the tastes of the Indian consumer without compromising on global appeal. The Beat Essentia sedan features the 1.2-litre STEC II engine that is expected to develop 77bhp and 107Nm, the diesel mill is the 1.0L XSDE unit that generates 56bhp and 142.5Nm.

The Beat Activ concept comes with pseudo-SUV stance, which is expected to be the most affordable crossover when launched. The Beat Activ flaunts LED inlays in the headlamps and fog lamps and black plastic cladding. The concept was showcased with a seven-inch MyLink infotainment system and a motorbike-inspired instrument cluster.

The company also informed that the exports will continue to be important from India. In 2015, the company exported 21,000 Chevrolet vehicles to 40 countries, including Chile and Mexico. This year, GM expects an additional 50,000 units.