Each takes a diametrically different look at what the future of a younger-market car might be. The Code 130R is the more exciting option for driving enthusiasts, packaging a four-seat coupe with rear-wheel drive.
Power comes from a 150-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual transmission. An interesting addition to the Code 130R's mix is the eAssist hybrid drive system, which includes auto start-stop, brake energy regeneration, and electric acceleration assistance. The combination is good for an estimated 40 mpg on the highway.
Wearing a red metallic paint job on top of matte gold anodized wheels, aggressive front-end styling, and flared fenders, the 130R's appearance goes straight to the heart of the entry-level sports car/tuner market.
Targeting younger buyers--those under 30, for the most part--Chevy is also packing in a host of modern infotainment features with MyLink, heads-up display, WiFi, and smartphone connectivity. The target production price, should the model get the nod, is in the low-$20,000 range.
Though they're being shown in concept form with some production intent, the two new Chevy small car concepts are still only in initial development stages. "The interiors currently exist in 2D only. This allows us the flexibility to continue the discussion and encourage more dialogue as we continue to develop these concepts," said GM North America advanced design studio director Frank Saucedo.
Chevy is therefore looking for potential customer input with these concepts before deciding which--if any--to build. "We want to hear what they have to say, engage them in our design process, and give them what they want – not what we think they want," said John McFarland, senior manager for Chevrolet global marketing.
