The leaked patent images of the Chevrolet's upcoming compact SUV, the Niva has been doing the rounds of the internet. The compact SUV's patent drawings are from the Russian Federal Institute of Industrial Property. The Russia-spec model is important to India because of the possibility of coming to the country as competitor for the Ford EcoSport.
It was reported in October that GM India is developing a compact SUV as part of 10 new models meant for India. The compact SUV with the code name GEM-B SUV is expected to be a clone of the 2016 Niva. A report from Gaadiwaadi also indicates when Niva comes to India it will be called Blazer.
The Niva concept was displayed with a rugged stance back in 2014. In the patent images, the design has been toned down and features are more relatable. The face of the Nica does resemble a lot like the Ford EcoSport especially the headlamp unit. The side profile is highlighted with thick shoulder line starting from front fenders and concludes at the top of the rear with interesting swerve after rear doors. Like the EcoSport the compact SUV features rear mounted spare wheels.
The Indian-spec model is expected to have slight design changes. The Chevrolet GEM-B SUV in its production avatar is expected to take design cues from the Adra concept, which was showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo. The Adra was developed entirely by Indian designers at the GM Technical Centre in Bangalore
Apart from the EcoSport, the Chevrolet compact SUV will go up against the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano, Mahindra TUV300 and Hyundai Creta.
