Currently reading: Spied: Chevrolet’s next MPV
Chevrolet's forethcoming Tacuma MPV has been caught testing ahead of its 2009 introduction

Our spy photographers have captured the Chevrolet’s new seven seat MPV being put through its paces ahead of its launch next year.

The new car is going to be significantly more advanced than the outgoing Tacuma, with GM sources confirming that it will carry a different (yet to be confirmed) name. Currently it is known internally as ‘MPV7’.

The new car will be built in Korea alongside the Chevrolet Cruze, and is believed to be based on GM’s ‘Delta’ platform, which will also underpin the next-generation Vauxhall Zafira. Under the disguise the Tacuma’s chunky proportions suggest it will combine both MPV and SUV design themes.

Non-American Chevrolet sales have been booming in recent months, in stark contrast to GM’s fading fortunes in the ‘States. Chevrolet sales in Europe have increased by 19 percent so far this year, and in emerging markets the brand is making even bigger advances: Russian sales are up by nearly 50 percent year-on-year.

The new MPV will make its debut at this year’s Paris motor show before going on sale in Europe late in 2009. UK sales are likely to start in early 2010. It is also likely to be sold on both sides of the Atlantic, competing with cars like the Ford Flex and Dodge Journey in the USA and compact MPV rivals in Europe.

MIKE Duff

Add a comment…