Spotted: 2017 Chevrolet Beat for India on M300 platform

The new generation Chevrolet Beat for India has been spied testing for the first time. First showcased at the 2015 Seoul Motor Show, India-spec new generation Beat will not be based on the M2 platform, on which the global Beat (also known as Spark in many countries) is based.

The reason – this platform is too expensive for the segment in which Beat is sold in India. In order to keep the price of 2017 Beat same as existing Beat in India, it is reported that new Beat is based on the same platform as the current Beat’s M300 platform.

Exteriors and interiors will be designed to look like the the new-gen Beat, but the underpinnings will remain that of old Beat. Basically, it would be safe to assume that the new gen Beat for India is a facelift, and not a thorough new generation car.

Launch is most likely going to take place in 2017. Engine options on offer will include an all-new 1.0 liter three cylinder petrol engine from the ECOTEC family. This engine is a down-sized version of the 1.4L ECOTEC. Diesel engine will be in the form of current 1.0L mill, but tuned for better mileage and performance. Transmission options will include 5 speed manual gearbox. Option of AMT could also be available.

Apart from the new Beat, Chevrolet is also working towards launching new small cars in the 5+ lakh car segment as the company hopes to claim a 5% market share in India by 2025. These will include a small hatch, small sedan and a small SUV. These cars will be specially made for India and other developing countries like India. GM India’s manufacturing unit will be global manufacturing hub for these new generation cars.

This article first appeared on Rushlane.com