Chevrolet Optra introduction and launch history

Chevrolet Optra is one of the luxury cars manufactured by General Motors, launched in the 2002 in India, available with two engine options, a 1.6L or 1.8L. Optra Platinum is the costliest version and latest from General Motors. Optra Magnum was introduced by GM in India in 2007 and the model has both petrol and diesel variants. The Optra is more commonly known as the Lacetti in other parts of the world and its hatchback version known as the Chevrolet Optra SRV.

                                                                                                                          

Chevrolet Optra Exterior

New Chevrolet Optra Magnum’s sleek aerodynamic design delivers a powerful pick-up. It has almond shaped front lamps that shine bright even when they are not in use. Chevrolet Optra Magnum has new trendy alloy wheels. The door handles of Chevrolet Optra Magnum are specially coated with chrome and the body of the car is molded with chrome inserts that in turn make the car exterior attractive. A comb grille is also specially designed along with the chrome inserts that adds more compliments to Chevrolet Optra Magnum’s aerodynamic solid body.

Latest Chevrolet Optra Magnum sports the new nose, which is similar to that of the Optra SRV, but its front grill of the Magnum is slightly different from the SRV’s. Its pear shaped headlamps and the front grille add additioanlly compliments the car. Both petrol and diesel versions of Chevrolet Optra Magnum now-a-days come with new tail lights and new nose.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum interiors

New Optra interiors are designed in such a way that gives a powerful experience to the passengers while riding in the car. Its interiors are luxurious and classy. The Chevrolet Optra Magnum’s steering wheel is wrapped with special leather. The seats of the Chevrolet Optra Magnum along with its gear knob are all covered with two-toned beige leather. The leather interiors not only give a stylish edge but they also deliver comfort to the passengers.

Apart from that, the Chevrolet Optra Magnum comes with an all new 2 DIN CD MP3 and cassette player. Chevrolet Optra Magnum’s 360 degree air vents keep the surroundings cool. The entire Chevrolet Optra Magnum has wood finish interiors that delivers a classy look.

Chevrolet Optra Variants

During 2002, sedan version sold as Optra and the hatchback version sold as Chevrolet Optra SRV. Later on General Motors had launched 2L diesel engine. 1.6L Optra was available with three trim levels – Elite, Elite LS and Elite LT Royale. Optra 1.8L is available in two levels. They are LT and LT AT (automatic transmission).

New Chevrolet Optra Magnum comes in six variants. They are Optra Magnum 2.0 Max, Optra Magnum 2.0LS, Optra Magnum 2.0 LT, Optra Magnum 1.6 LS, Optra Magnum 1.6 LT and Optra Magnum 1.6 Max.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum Prices

The prices of Optra Magnum variants are – Optra Magnum 2.0 Max costs 880099 lakh, Optra Magnum 2.0LS costs 925927 lakh, Optra Magnum 2.0 LT costs 1037851 lakh, Optra Magnum 1.6 LS costs 820598 lakh, Optra Magnum 1.6 LT costs 938741 lakh and Optra Magnum 1.6 Max costs 788009 lakh. These are ex-showroom prices at Delhi in Indian Rupees. For the specific price the buyers need to contact the local dealers.

Chevrolet Optra used car market

Some experts say that used Chevrolet Optra’s does not have a good resale value in India. However, the car comes with a three year warranty package/ 100,000Kms so people are not paying much heed to resale value.

On-road performance

Chevrolet Optra Magnum is an excellent vehicle that gives the experience of taking the jet on-road. Its initial pick-up and acceleration are awesome. Even the diesel engine Optra runs without any vibration. It delivers 13.5 Kms per liter.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum test-drives

The Optra’s suspension is extremely well suited for Indian roads. It glides smoothly on the roughest tracks and has a softer ride. The cabin is designed in such a way that exterior sounds are almost eliminated completely. While driving within the city, passengers inside the car will rarely experience jerks or vibrations.

Comparisons between Optra and its rivals

• Chevrolet Optra has a much shorter waiting period than the Maruti Swift Dezire

• Honda City (IDSI Engine) has an electric power steering, which is smoother when compared to the Optra SRV’s. Experts say that Optra SRV’s power steering is heavier but at the same time the SRV has lesser space in the rear.

• Gears are slightly larger in the Optra SRV compared to those of the Dezire and Honda City (which have a comfortable gear throw).

• The vibrations and jerks are mild in both, the Honda City as well as Optra SRV.

• Pick-up is awesome in SRV compared to Honda City.

• Maintenance is pretty high in Honda City but not in Optra SRV.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum Colors

Chevy Optra comes is available in six colours. They are – sand drift grey, velvet red, light gold, caviar black, olympic white, and sparkling diamond.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum safety features

Optra has an advanced x-pro safety system that comes with ABS, which gives confidence and ensures a durable journey even under tough conditions and this x-pro system also ensures a smooth stop. On the Optra exterior, there is an impact proof of bumpers that ensures more safety even in heavy traffic commuting. Optra Magnum is a silent vehicle that prevents unnecessary noise from the outside. Inside the car there are add on dual airbags which ensure a safe and secure drive.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum has energy absorbing bumpers and the top variant has front fog lamps, ABS and dual side Airbags for drivers.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum comfort

The interiors of the Chevrolet Optra Magnum stand for thoughtful comfort. While traveling in the Optra, passengers experience a fine combination of luxury and power. Chevrolet Optra Magnum has a tilt steering that lets the driver adjust the wheel according to his needs. Add-on lumbar support is attached to the driver’s seat to ensure utmost comfort over a long journey.

Apart from that, rear seats also come with a 60:40 split that allows passengers to modify the cabin space. NVH in Chevrolet Optra Magnum helps the car to run without vibration that gives the comfort experience for the passengers. The top variant of Chevrolet Optra Magnum has an automatic climate control A/C and rear armrest.

Expert views on Chevrolet Optra Magnum

Experts say that the Chevrolet Optra Magnum has a uniquely luxurious feature that gives an awesome mileage along with a splendid drive. They also say that this luxurious sedan stands for style and class and has captured the hearts of many across the world.

The Magnum is endowed with a superb pickup from standstill in the city and excellent overtaking on the highway. The engine is a fine effort and the prominent highlight of this car – Daily News Analysis, Mumbai, June 12, 2007.

The Optra Magnum is not just a facelift exercise as many would wrongly assume. The exteriors, interiors and other cycle parts of the car have been given a thorough overhaul. The engine too is heavy and amazes everyone with its capabilities - Car India, July 2007

The diesel Optra goes head-on against the diesel Octavia which has so far ruled the market in its segment. The Optra comes out on top in performance, refinement and interior space – Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor, Autocar India (July 2007 issue)

Famous dealers

There are lots of dealers ofChevrolet Optra Magnum through out the country. The most famous dealers of major cities of the country are listed below.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum dealers in Delhi are: Autovikas, Metro Motors, Metro Motors Pvt Ltd, Regent Automobiles Ltd, Shiva Motors, Triumphs Motors and so on.

Chevrolet Optra Magnum dealers in Mumbai are: 4 Wheel World, Ashtavinayak Auto Pvt Ltd, Bharathi Automobiles Pvt Ltd, Bharathi Automobiles, KBJ Motors India Pvt Ltd, National Garage, Nikhil Automobiles Pvt Ltd, UDTI Motors and so on.

In Kolkata, Indian Automobiles Ltd is one of the best dealers.

Chevy dealers of Chennai are – Sundaram Motors, Kln Motor Agencies, Choose to Chevy, V foe U associates, Shaana associates, Mahaveer Cars, TV Sundaram Iylengar & Sons Ltd and so on

What does the marketing head of the car say?

“The TNS Voice of the Customer Award for the Chevrolet Optra Magnum is the result of GM India’s single-minded focus on our valuable consumers. We will continue to offer vehicles and services which are best-in-class and continually improve to exceed our customers’ expectations.” said by Mr. Karl Slym, the MD of GM India.

Pros

• Price is competitive in its segment.

• The car is comfortable and spacious.

• Road grip and control are extraordinary.

• Excellent initial pick-up.

• Attractive exteriors and interiors.

Cons

• Average resale value.

Conclusion

On the whole, the Chevrolet Optra requires low maintenance; it is stylish, luxurious, and value-for-money; it has a durable body and smooth engine. The Chevrolet Optra Magnum’s pros far outweigh its cons and thus this car would be highly recommended.