The annual auto show that kicked off in Detroit today saw the world debut of the GMC Granite Concept, a small crossover proposal with swing-out back doors aimed at a new generation of young buyers who would never give the brand's larger SUV's a second look.
Measuring 161.3-inch (4,097 mm) in length, 70.3-inch (1,786 mm) in width and 60.5-inch (1,536 mm) height with a wheelbase of 103.6-inch (2,631 mm), the Granite is roughly the same size as the Toyota group's 'boxy' Scion xB.
Even though GM did not say what front-wheel drive platform was used for the concept, the wheelbase length suggests it's based on the Chevy Cruze.
Power for the Granite concept comes from GM's 1.4-liter turbocharged four-pot that's linked to a six-speed transmission.
The boxy-shaped GMC concept gets four doors, the rear hinged at the back. There's no pillar between the front and rear doors, supposedly making the Granite easier to enter, exit and load.
The design of the vehicle's cabin is said to have been inspired by the design of aircraft-type mechanical instruments and precision tools.
Highlights include the reconfigurable interior as the front passenger and right rear seats can flip up and fold in toward the center console, creating a long, unobstructed storage space while the Granit's cargo area features numerous compartments to store items.
GM declined to say whether it is planning to introduce a production version of the Granite.
“We will resume production at Shreveport as soon as possible, and at this point, we have sufficient vehicles to meet customer demand,” General Motors said in a written statement. 
