General Motors is ‘strengthening’ its ‘European brand strategy’ by pulling Chevrolet out of mainstream markets in Western and Eastern Europe.

This is ‘largely due to a challenging business model and the difficult economic situation’ – but does not mean that Chevrolet is set to disappear entirely.

Instead, Chevrolet ‘tailor its presence’ by offering only select ‘iconic’ vehicles from the marque’s global portfolio.

GM makes specific reference to the Corvette, which has recently launched in brand new C7 Stingray guise in the United States – and is still expected to appear in Europe in 2014.

What this means for the equally iconic Camaro, however, remains to be seen. But GM has confirmed that its Cadillac brand will also be expanding in Europe over the next three years.

The move is intended to help GM’s other European brands Vauxhall and sister company Opel by removing the complexity of having both these and Chevrolet competing in the same marketplaces.

Most current European Chevrolets are actually built in South Korea (by Daewoo…); many of these will continue to be offered in Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States.

GM chairman and CEO Dan Akerson: “Europe is a key region for GM that will benefit from a stronger Opel and Vauxhall and a further emphasis on Cadillac. For Chevrolet it will allow us to focus our investments where the opportunity for growth is greatest.

“This is a win for all four brands. It’s especially positive for car buyers throughout Europe, who will be able to purchase vehicles from well-defined, vibrant GM brands.”

Managing director of Chevrolet Europe, Thomas Sedran: “Our customers can rest assured that we will continue to provide warranty, parts and services for their Chevrolet vehicles, and for vehicles purchased between now and the end of 2015.”

As this suggests, Chevrolet’s mainstream demise is scheduled for the beginning of 2016.

That’s a good two years away yet – but if you were planning to buy a brand new Chevrolet would you still do so following this announcement?