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Cheeky and quick: Matiz M3X mini-car concept
Paris Motor Show 2004
2004-09-23
Chevrolet's Matiz M3X show car offers a glimpse at the next generation of the popular Matiz mini-car, which will be on the market in Europe in spring 2005. One particularly striking feature of the study is its round LED front headlamp design, which is matched at the rear by the round tail lights. The overall style of the Matiz M3X conveys a very dynamic effect, due to a combination of the short body overhangs, the steeply rising shoulder line and the converging feature lines in the engine hood. A roof spoiler underlines the sporty look of the car, as do the twin, centrally positioned exhaust pipes and the large 16-inch alloy wheels with their double-spoke design. There are side indicators below the front headlamps and, for added safety, in the side mirrors.
The large, glass panorama roof highlights an exceptionally light interior. The roof can be pushed half way back to provide plenty of fresh air. It also allows a clear view into the spacious cabin, which, in this study, is dominated by blue fabric and metal applications on the gear lever, steering wheel and air vents.
Despite its easy-to-park dimensions (just 3.5 m long and 1.5 m wide), the Matiz M3X feels surprisingly roomy inside. At 1.5 m, it stands taller than most mini-cars and the wheelbase of just under 2.35 m is also above average. This means that, due to the high seating position, the Matiz M3X can comfortably accommodate four adults. The study offers effective additional luggage accommodation with roof rails, which not only underline the car's sporty appearance, but also make it easy to attach any kind of carrier system. Even when fully loaded, the power plant of the Matiz M3X will provide sufficient performance: The smooth and economical 1.0-litre four-cylinder engine generates 47 kW/64 hp at 5,400 rpm and is good for a top speed in excess of 150 km/h.
Chevrolet was established in 1911, joined General Motors in 1918 and is one of the biggest car brands in the world today. 3.6 million Chevrolets were sold in more than 70 countries in 2003. The brand with the legendary "bowtie" logo has European origins: The engineer and racing driver, Louis Chevrolet (1878-1941), was born in Switzerland.
