Currently reading: Daewoo plans mini off-roader

Daewoo is plotting an all-new baby SUV, revealed for the first time this week (right), and a rival to Mazda’s MX-5 as part of a renewed product offensive over the next three years.

The new 4x4 is Ford Fusion-sized and would partner abigger SUV sized between the Land Rover Freelander and Discovery. It could be on sale by 2007, but has yet to be given the green light.

The bigger 4x4 goes on sale in mid-2005 and boasts a BMW X5-style sculpted waistline, a high front end like the Audi A2 and front and rear ribbed aprons similar to the Freelander’s.

Brit Nick Reilly, Daewoo’s chief executive and former Vauxhall boss, told Autocar that a small sports car was also under consideration. Reilly, who pioneered the VX220, said: ‘I don’t think it will be too long before we decide on a halo car for the brand. It could be in production within three years but it would be a symbolic sporty addition.’

Daewoo marketing gurus are keen to enhance the rejuvenated Korean brand’s image with a relatively cheap – around £15,000 – ‘fun car’ and it could use an existing platform such as the Nubira’s.

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