Chevrolet Thailand revealed the Australian designed and built Chevrolet Xtreme and Trailblazer Premier at the Bangkok Motor Show yesterday.

HOLDEN AUSTRALIA said the two show vehicles its designed and built on behalf of Chevrolet Thailand, for the Bangkok Motor Show hint at the future design direction of the refreshed Colorado and Colorado7. But, there’s a but in all of this… and we’ll come back to that.

Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Bernhard said the show vehicles were an exciting exploration into the distinct character of each vehicle, created to gauge interest and receive invaluable feedback from customers. Reading between the lines, that seems to be a statement suggesting that its current, relatively unloved Colorado and Colorado7 had missed the mark in a country (Australia) where the ute and 4×4 wagon market is booming.

“The Colorado Xtreme and Trailblazer Premier show vehicles were created with the intent of injecting excitement and passion into the critical light commercial and SUV segments, while reinforcing Holden and Chevrolet’s commitment to exciting design and listening to customer feedback,” said Bernhard.

“It’s especially exciting that our GM Australia design team were able to lead this project, working in collaboration with GM Brazil and GM Thailand.”

Speaking from the Bangkok International Motor Show, Vice President of GM International Sales, Marketing & Aftersales, Mike Devereux, said the show cars were proof that General Motors was constantly exploring how its brands respond to maturing markets.

“We want to continue to lead the charge in these segments in this region and we think these two vehicles are clear demonstrations of that,” Devereux said.

“The Colorado Xtreme is the ultimate tough American truck that Chevrolet is famous for all over the world.  With an integrated accessory range ensuring our customers can customise their truck to the most challenging environment.  It is an off-road vehicle that not only looks tough but can absolutely tackle any challenge thrown its way.

“And while the Trailblazer Premier remains just as capable for the adventurous family, it explores a different side of its persona.  It responds directly to the growing desire for a more luxurious and sophisticated SUV, one that boasts premium appointments inside and out.”

The Colorado Extreme does exactly what every off-road oriented concept needs to do. It’s in a bright colour (Furness), has big, chunky tyres, a snorkel and a spare wheel in the tray. It looks the part.

“This truck is in direct response to consumer’s desire to personalise their vehicles,” Simcoe said.

On the inside, Holden has fitted its latest-generation MyLink system (eight-inch touchscreen) which comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

But, if you look closely at the Extreme it’s not overly different from the current Colorado, and beyond the motor show bits and bobs and bright paintwork, it’s really only the front grille and bumper that have significantly changed. Holden hasn’t said what mechanical changes might be affected when the refreshed Colorado arrives.

Highlights of the Chevrolet Xtreme include:

• Custom exterior paint – “Furnace”
• Front Safari Bar with integrated LED bar and winch
• Rear step with integrated corner step and tow bar
• Large fender flares to compliment off-road tire package
• 18 inch all terrain tires with custom bead locks
• Integrated hood vent
• Unique designed snorkel
• Sports bar with styled in-fill panel
• Integrated spoiler, CHMSL and whip antenna
• Roof basket with integrated LED light bar
• Custom tub liner:
• Adjustable tie down tracks, extended to lift gate
• Integrated spare wheel mount and tool holders
• Custom spare wheel T-nut
• Integrated Newton cap
• New interior theme
• 8 inch color touch screen equipped with the latest MyLink system
• Integrated instrument panel handle bar
• Integrated Pitch & Roll meter
• Premium leather / fabric seat
• Floor mat that compliment seat trim
• High lift suspension
• Roll Bar
• Graphics pack
• Emergency retrieval kit

The Trailblazer Premier doesn’t follow in the off-road oriented footsteps of the Xtreme, with Holden saying it’s intended to showcase a more luxurious offering. 

“The brief was simple, we wanted to dial up the refinement to make sure the vehicle was as luxurious as it was capable,” Simcoe said.

“Like every Chevrolet, the vehicle has head-turning good looks with striking Chevy DNA and global appeal.

“This show car is a result of strong collaboration to ensure we understood the demands of each market.  Our research tells us customers, particularly in the Thai market, appreciate luxury, upmarket finishes and sophisticated detail.  So our focus has been on ensuring we enrich the driver and passenger experience.

“Unlike the Colorado Xtreme, which is loud and tough, the Trailblazer Premier is subtle and softer in terms of color and materials, emphasized with the use of bright chrome and premium materials such as Australian timber which was hand-picked and crafted.”

Trailblazer Premier highlights include:

• Custom exterior paint – “Velocity”
• 22 inch wheel & tires
• Rear spoiler
• Rear fascia protector
• Integrated side step with bright chrome molding.
• New interior theme
• 8 inch color touch screen equipped with the latest MyLink system
• Premium leather seat with handmade netting
• Wood door applique with steel inserts
• Two tone instrument panel inserts with detailed stitch
• Chrome details
• Matching floor mats that compliment seat and instrument panel insert detailed stitch