2007 New York Auto Show: Chevrolet Rolls Out Beat, Groove and Trax Minicar Concepts

NEW YORK — Saying "size doesn't matter," Chevrolet on Wednesday took the wraps off the three Korea-designed concepts that mark its foray into the global minicar arena.

The Chevrolet Beat, a front-wheel-drive three-door hatchback, is described as a "speedy micro import tuner." It is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to an automatic transmission. GM says the Beat is "loaded with technology, including a navigation system and premium stereo."

The Chevrolet Groove is called a "funkastalgia"-themed vehicle with retro cues that include oversize fender flares and an upright windshield. It is powered by a 1.0-liter diesel engine.

The Chevrolet Trax is an all-wheel-drive urban crossover concept that is powered by a 1.0-liter gas engine.

Chevrolet is testing the water with consumers by having Web viewers vote for their favorite of the three at a special Chevy Web site. The division says it will use the results to help determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, as well as which design appeals the most to potential buyers in America. The minicar platform was engineered in Korea by GM Daewoo, and the concepts were created at the automaker's design studio in Incheon.

The Beat was built in India, and the Groove and Trax were built at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan.

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