This Is Chevrolet’s New SUV We Can’t Have

Despite massive support from the domestic market, General Motors enjoys greater popularity in the world’s biggest automotive market, China. Interestingly, the auto conglomerate even managed to outsell its fiercest rival, Ford, with more than 780,000 vehicles shifted in the first quarter alone. As such, China receives market-specific vehicles not even available in the US, such as the upcoming, second-generation Cadillac XT6.

Another new vehicle heading to the Land of the Red Dragon is the leaked Chevrolet Seeker. Curious naming aside, it looks to be an attractive crossover that will do battle in the highly competitive Chinese market. Measuring around 178.6 inches in length, the Seeker sits between the Trailblazer and Equinox in terms of size. The wheelbase is pegged at 106.3 inches while the curb weight is rated at 3,108 lbs.

As per CarNewsChina.com, the Seeker will be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 180-horsepower on tap, slightly more than the Equinox 1.5-liter can muster. The sleek, China-only crossover reportedly has a top speed of around 127 mph. It’s unlikely to be the sole engine on offer; images suggest an RS trim will be made available and we’d hazard a guess that it would offer at least 200 hp.

There’s a hint of Buick Enclave in the front facia, although the enlarged Bow Tie brand means passers-by won’t mistake the Seeker for anything else but a Chevrolet. Chunky rubber envelops the five-spoke wheels and, while they appear attractive enough, the aesthetics could benefit from a slightly larger rim.

Rear styling is less successful; the bodywork is expansive and, painted in white, looks rather shapeless and oversized. Beneath the compact taillights sit a pair of vents, although we’re guessing they’re purely there for the look. Still, it’s a lot better than the company’s other China-only offering, the Menlo.

Currently, it’s unknown whether the Seeker will replace something else in the lineup or bolster GM’s China offerings as part of a crossover onslaught. Official launch dates are to be determined, although it is said to reach Chinese dealerships in the third quarter of 2022.

Built by SAIC-GM, it’s unlikely that the Seeker will arrive in the United States, although buyers may find the coupe-like styling more appealing. Judging by China’s bevy of young car buyers, the newcomer should prove to be a success for the brand. More information will surface as the launch date draws closer along with, hopefully, some pictures of the interior. We’re guessing it won’t stray too far from the Trailblazer interior, pictured below.