We’re not quite sure what to make of this new Chevrolet prototype that was caught by our scoop photographers on European roads. The test vehicle appears to be a small or compact MPV in a taller, SUV-esque design with short overhangs and an upright fascia reminiscent of the latest Chevy models. Our man with the long-lens told us that the camouflaged prototype was clearly smaller than the Orlando people mover that’s offered in Europe.

It could be that Chevrolet is working on a new small crossover model based on an extended version of General Motors’ Gamma II platform. The same architecture underpins the new Chevy Spark and Aveo / Sonic and will also form the base for the future Opel Corsa and its SUV sibling that is currently under development.

We went ahead and looked over some of Chevrolet’s recent year concepts to see if we could find a match. While we did not discover something similar in size, we did find an older study akin in philosophy. We’re talking about the Groove, a small crossover model that was unveiled at the 2007 New York Auto Show alongside the Beat that eventually led to the Spark and the Trax.

While the Groove never made it into production, the design may have inspired GM to create a similar model in the popular in Europe, B- or C-segments.

We’ll keep our eyes and ears open and report with more information as soon as we find out . In the meantime, check out the image gallery below, and leave your thoughts in the comment area.

SCOOP PHOTOS_______________________________________________________________________ 2007 CHEVROLET GROOVE & TRAX CONCEPTS