Chevrolet has announced plans to give the public its first look at the Orlando crossover concept next month at the Paris auto show, an indication the company is planning to move into multi-purpose, "family" vehicles with an SUV-like design.

In an interview with Automotive News, Nancy Libby, a spokeswoman for Chevrolet said, "Chevrolet is looking at all its options to meet the needs of buyers. We're looking at what works in markets around the world."

The Orlando seeks to blend the best characteristics of an SUV, family van, and station wagon. Defined lines on the exterior clearly separate the hood and windshield, with distinctly flared fenders rather than a more traditional flat-side body.

The wheelbase measures 107 inches with wide front and rear tracks to accommodate interior theatre-style seats arranged in three rows. Maximum capacity is seven and the cabin can be configured for cargo as needed.

The Orlando will be powered by Chevrolet's most recent 20-liter turbo diesel, which will provide 150 hp. No details on fuel economy have been provided.

Although the public has shown a strong move away from SUVs and trucks in the face of rising gasoline prices, they have also been loathe to give up the highly popular form factor. It remains to be seen whether crossovers can keep the best of that design and cater to growing economic and environmental concerns.