Imagine a car with futuristic styling, a cabin loaded with the latest technology, and a starting price of just around $20,000. Sounds pretty great, doesn't it? When Chevy started working on their latest concepts for the North American International Auto Show this month, that's exactly what they were aiming for. And, with the help from the country's youngest generation of drivers, they arrived in Detroit with two very cool concepts: the Chevrolet Tru 140S and the Chevrolet Code 130R.

Making their debut alongside the long-awaited Chevy Sonic RS, these two cars were designed with input from the Millennial Generation. That's right, Chevy surveyed thousands of young people born between 1981 and 2000 to find out what they were looking for in a car. What they found isn't likely to surprise you. According to Frank Saucedo, Director of the GM North America Advanced Design Studio, "Young customers tell us they want functionality with coupe-like aesthetics."¹ In other words, each concept gets 40 miles to the gallon, is loaded with technology, is stylish and sporty, fits four passengers, and won't break the budget.

The Code 130R is reminiscent of a muscle car, with a fierce, lowered stance and matte-gold 20-inch wheels. The 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumps out 150 horsepower. With energy-saving technology like GM's eAssist electric assist system that supplements engine power, performs regenerative braking and enables engine start/stop technology, the Code 130R easily reaches the 40-mpg mark.

Rumor has it that if either concept makes it to production, the second one is the more likely of the two. Dubbed the Tru 140S, this liftback concept is being called an "affordable exotic."² Driving on 21-inch wheels, the Tru 140S is based on the same platform as the Chevy Cruze and is powered by the same engine. With the help of GM's eAssist technology, the concept is a bit more powerful without sacrificing any of the economy that defines the Cruze platform.

As for the interior and any technology, Chevrolet plans to collect more input from young drivers before they make any decisions. We're sure that if either model hits production, WiFi MyLink and heads-up displays will be a part of the tech package.

While there's no word yet on the possibility of either of these concepts becoming realities, Chevrolet has certainly promised a fiercer-looking compact car in the future. It could be a couple years before we see them hit the streets, but be sure to stay tuned with Cole Krum Chevrolet for continued updates on this and other Chevy news. Can't wait a couple years to get behind the wheel of a fun and fuel-efficient compact? Take a minute to check out our selection of new Chevy models online, anytime. Or stop in and see us at 343 W Prairie St Vicksburg, MI 49097 and take one for a spin!

Source:^1,2http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/detroit/2012/1201_2012_detroit_chevrolet_code_130r_concept/