Next-generation Chevrolet Beat might be launched in India by 2017

General Motors might launch the next-generation of the Chevrolet Beat in India by 2017. Globally sold as the Spark, the latest iteration of the car made its world premiere at the 2015 New York Auto Show. Dubbed the 2016 Chevrolet Spark, the vehicle is the second generation model of the car and had been spotted testing several times in South Korea before being launched. 

The Indian-spec Beat will be similar to this model, but not the same, as the new M2 platform on which it is based is proving too costly for the Indian market. The existing car will be updated with cosmetic changes and get new features in the cabin. 

Nevertheless, the new Beat is expected to share the design with the new Spark. So we can expect the fascia to sport a sleek looking split grille embellished with chrome. The round fog lamps will be surrounded by subtle chrome linings as well. The rear door handles will continue to be mounted near the C-Pillars in the window frame. The interior will not just be added with new features but the quality of materials will up the premium feel.

For the Indian market, the petrol version of the 2017 Beat will be powered by a four-cylinder 1.2-litre engine, while the oil-burner will continue to be the 936cc three-pot diesel mill under its hood. The transmission will remain the same five-speed manual gearbox.

The next-gen Beat for the Indian market will be underpinned by the current model's M300 platform in order to keep the cost structure very competitive. With its styling bits borrowed from the 2016 Spark, the Beat will look sporty and should attract many customers in India. GM India’s focus is on significantly expanding its presence in the Indian market by enriching its products. The carmaker plans to expand its Indian portfolio and will bring the Beat to our country. But before that, they will launch the Trailblazer SUV and the Spin MPV in our country in 2015-16 with the expansion strategy in mind.

Source: ACI