2004 Chevrolet M3X Concept

Although the Matiz' exterior dimensions of 3,500 mm (137.8 inches) by 1,500 mm (59.1 inches), length and width, may lead a person

Chevy's M3X is fitted with an LCD-DVD-Navi system and digital climate control, unusual for a car of this size. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

to believe that the interior is cramped, this is far from the truth. The M3X is surprisingly roomy thanks to its 1,490 mm (58.7 inches) height and the raised position of the front and rear seats. Unlike most compact cars that have seat bottoms that are nearly flat on the floor, those on the M3X are positioned to allow more leg and knee room for dimensions large enough to accommodate four full-sized adults. Meager trunk space means that if the driver is attempting to carry more than a few grocery bags or a large backpack, the roof rack and the accessories with it must be used.

Like most mini-cars, the M3X is powered by a tiny engine. An economical 1.0-liter inline-four produces 64 horsepower and an equal amount of torque has been wedged under the hood. Chevrolet describes its performance as "sufficient", but with the extra weight of a glass roof and complex lighting prospective buyers shouldn't expect the M3X to accelerate to 100 km/h in under 13 seconds. The sheer lack of power really limits the M3X to the confines of urban

It may not be the fastest or most clever minicar on the market, but the M3X should be popular amongst younger buyers. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

areas as opposed to wide-open stretches of road. Top speed has been quoted as over 150 km/h, which is on-par with rivals in the 1.0-liter mini-car class.

While Chevrolet is busy erecting and refurbishing dealerships for its reintroduction to Europe in 2005, it will also be retooling GM's Romanian and Polish plants for production of the Matiz. As previously mentioned, the new model will be sold alongside the Kalos 3-door hatchback and a variety of other Chevrolet products when it is introduced next February. Of all the GMDAT and Daewoo engineered vehicles made, the Matiz is the only one that is not slated to be sold in North America, mainly because its diminutive size and lack of power are not suited to North American needs.

Specifications (LS):

• Body Type: 5-door hatchback
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 64 hp, 64 lb-ft of torque, 1.0-liter, SOHC, 8-valve, I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual
• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 3,500 / 1,500 / 1,490 / 2,340 mm (137.8 / 59.1 / 58.7 / 92.1 in)
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): approximately 13.0 seconds
• Top Speed: 150+ km/h (90+ mph)
• Wheels/Tires: 195/40 ZR 16
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Website: www.gmcanada.com

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.