2005 Chevrolet Optra Wagon Preview

A Practical SUV Alternative

With the addition of the subcompact Aveo hatchback, as well as the compact Optra and midsize Epica sedans, GM

Thanks to GM's buyout of Daewoo, Chevrolet now has an impressive and growing lineup of unique import-oriented alternatives including the new compact Optra Wagon. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

Canada has been able to offer a unique import-oriented alternative within its well respected Chevrolet nameplate.

The new cars come from General Motors Daewoo Auto & Technology (GMDAT), the cooperative company that was formed as a result of the GM buyout of Daewoo's Korean manufacturing assets. The buyout also included the budget brand's line of cars, the Lanos subcompact, Nubira compact and Leganza midsize.

While the Lanos, Nubira and Leganza continue to be sold outside of North America under the Daewoo nameplate, GM and Suzuki have modified each car's grille, added brand specific badges and renamed them for specific markets. For instance, the Leganza is

The Suzuki Forenza Wagon, which is a mirror image of the Optra Wagon sans Chevrolet specific design details and badging, was introduced last month in Manhattan during the New York International Auto Show. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

dubbed Verona throughout North America and sold through Suzuki dealers, while GM Canada sells a version of the car named the Epica through its Chevrolet franchises. The same goes for the Lanos, called the Aveo at Chevrolet stores across the continent and the Sprint+ in Canadian Suzuki dealers. Suzuki Canada doesn't even get the Forenza, Reno or upcoming Forenza Wagon, but then again U.S. Chevy dealers don't get the Optra, Optra5 and upcoming Optra Wagon respectively.

"The addition of the wagon exemplifies the great things happening at Chevrolet, and further solidifies its position in the small car market," stated Cathy Mowat, Marketing Manager for Chevrolet small cars. "Chevy small car sales are up an incredible 75 percent for the calendar year to date, and we expect the Optra wagon to bring even more customers to our showrooms."