Jim Federico, vehicle line executive for General Motors' compact and small vehicles, said during this week's Detroit Auto Show that there will be no GMC Granite. He related that they received "a lot of input, pretty good input," but they never proceeded from its concept, which starred in the 2010 North American Auto Show. During that time, it was a stylish, compact, van-like concept created for the young, urban customers. The vehicle was targeted to those who considered the Chevrolet Equinox or the GMC Terrain too massive for their neighborhoods. A debut was suggested for 2013 at that time. Federico provided no further details about the decision to end the concept vehicle.
One of the two design elements that stood out on the concept vehicle was the wide opening on the side. It offered as much functionality for loading cargo as the entry through the rear hatch. There was no B-pillar. The Dutch doors (also called suicide doors) provided a wide entry when opened. With the tight parking spaces in large urban areas, most people are expected to access the vehicle through the side entry.
The Granite's reconfigurable interior also stood out two years ago when it was launched at the North American Auto Show. It provided a front passenger seat that pivoted up and toward the console. When the seats are raised, a bicycle could be placed without dismantling the front tire.
While the GMC's team never used the word "Scion," the Granite was anticipated to be an xB competitor. Instead, the Granite has never progressed from its concept phase. [source: Autonews]
