Theta is General Motors' automobile platform for compact/mid-size crossover SUVs. The architecture debuted in 2002 with the Saturn Vue and was later used for the Chevrolet Equinox and Captiva and similar models.

Development The Theta uses a four-wheel independent suspension. Engine choices include the Family II straight-4, Ecotec straight-4, 3400 V6, and even a Honda V6, the L66. A 5-speed automatic and two 5-speed manual transmissions are used.

The original Saturn Vue used a short 106.6 in (2708 mm) wheelbase, with a 61 in (1549 mm) track. The Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent use a stretched 112.5 in (2857 mm) wheelbase, but share much with the Saturn.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara, although similar in size and appearance to a Saturn Vue, was developed by Suzuki using some Theta components, but should not be considered a Theta derivative.

Engineering for the Opel Antara and Chevrolet Captiva was performed in large part in Korea by GM Daewoo Auto & Technology, and by Opel in Germany.

Hybrids The Saturn Vue was one of the first of General Motors' vehicles to be offered with a hybrid powertrain, GM's belt alternator starter (BAS) system, in 2006.

Vehicles Short wheelbase: 2002–2007 Saturn Vue 2006–2015 Opel Antara 2006–2011 Daewoo Winstorm MaXX* 2006–2017 Chevrolet Captiva Sport* 2008–2010 Saturn Vue* 2008–2010 GMC Terrain (Middle Eastern market)* 2006–2008 Holden Captiva Maxx* 2009–2017 Holden Captiva 5* 2006–2018 Chevrolet Captiva 2006–2011 Daewoo Winstorm** 2006–2018 Holden Captiva 7**

Note: Vehicles with "*" are rebadged versions of the Opel AntaraNote: Vehicles with "**" are rebadged versions of the Chevrolet Captiva

Long wheelbase: 2005–2009 Chevrolet Equinox 2006–2009 Pontiac Torrent 2006–2009 Suzuki XL7 2010–2017 Chevrolet Equinox 2010–2017 GMC Terrain Concepts: Chevrolet S3X/T2X

Theta Premium

General Motors has created a premium version of Theta for luxury applications. It mixed elements of the current Theta and the new Epsilon 2 architecture. Thus, this platform is sometimes also referred to as Theta-Epsilon (GMT166). Theta Premium supports larger models than the standard platform.

Vehicles using Theta Premium: 2010–2016 Cadillac SRX 2011 Saab 9-4X

See also List of General Motors platforms

References