Diesel is the future is a belief that has taken deep root among auto manufacturers. It’s obvious from the fact that the world’s largest automobile company, General Motors (GM), has introduced a diesel engine for its flagship Chevrolet Optra. This has not only brought versatility to the model, but also helped the Optra Magnum take on the more expensive Skoda Octavia and Hyundai Elantra in the diesel-powered segment. Considering that the Optra variants—1.8 litre, 1.6 litre and the automatic—had not done too well, the Magnum is a happy result for GM. For, the 2-litre turbocharged common rail direct injection (TCDi) may finally dethrone the Octavia which has ruled the high-end diesel car market in India.

Exterior
Most of Magnum’s styling remains the same as its Optra siblings except for the nose which, forgive the pun, helps it to nose ahead of the others. The car has stylish almond-shaped headlights borrowed from the Chevrolet SRV hatchback. It also has an all-new aggressive-looking chrome grill with a larger Chevy Bowtie which you just can’t miss. The front bumper has been beefed up, and it is the only car in its segment to have wing mirrors with turn indicators. Its 15-inch alloy wheels and chrome door handles give it a sporty look. The rear, however, hasn’t had a makeover, apart from the Magnum and TCDi badge—a bit of a let down as it does not gel with the sporty, nose-up front. Though the Optra has always looked impressive, these changes have made the executive sedan sporty enough to lure younger buyers.

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