The new Chevrolet Optra has arrived in South Africa, five months after the re-entry of Chevrolet into the country, and is designed to compete in the same segment as the Toyota Corolla. According to the factory the main reason the Optra was not launched alongside the other models in the Chevrolet range was that its engine had to be specially tuned for our local fuels and operating conditions. Although badged here as a Chevrolet, the Optra is sold in the United States as a Suzuki Forenza, and in other countries as the Daewoo Nubira.
In South Africa, the Optra is being launched in three model derivatives: A 1.6-l Base model that sells for R141 700, a 1.6- l LS for R156 700 and the 1.8-l LT that will set you back R179 900. Both engines are multi-valve, dual cam multi-point injection units. The power outputs are highly competitive, and have been tuned for driveability rather that outright performance. The 1.6l models have a variable intake manifold to assist low-end characteristics without sacrificing too much top-end power. This improves the torque output by 10% virtually across the rev range, thus improving flexibility.
As the emphasis is on the drivability of the vehicle, there is a good spread of torque available right throughout the range. Both the Optra 1600cc models produce 80 kW at 5 800 rpm and maximum torque of 150 Nm at 4 000 rpm. The higher end 1800cc has 90kW of maximum power available at 5 800 rpm and 165 Nm torque at 4 000 rpm. All three Optra models are equipped with 5-speed manual gearboxes.
Specifications look very good for the pricing, and the car should do well here if potential buyers can overcome the cars’ identity crisis.