GM Unveils Its First Mini-Sedan for India

General Motors Co. says it will launch local production of its first A-segment mini-sedan for the Indian market, the Chevrolet Essentia, in 2017.

The Essentia will share its platform with the Chevrolet Beat mini-hatchback. GM, which unveiled the Essentia at this week’s auto show in Greater Noida, released no technical details about the four-seater. But it says the car will offer relatively advanced features such a dual airbags, antilock brakes and a rear camera.

GM also presented an off-road variant, the Chevrolet Beat Activ concept at the show. The company previously said it will add a mini-MPV, the Chevrolet Spin, to its India lineup in 2017.

The new models underscore the company’s announced intent to enter what it describes as India’s “fiercely competitive” minicar segment. GM notes the Essentia and Beat Activ were designed for global markets.