Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 Diesel LT

Nov 28 2008 Peter Keenan

CHEVROLET is muscling in on the SUV scene with the Captiva - a value-for-money 4x4 that's taking on a market traditionally dominated by much more expensive rivals.

The gameplan is simple.

Offer a soft-roader that's easy on the eye with ample cabin space and the option of five or seven seats, then pack it full of equipment not normally offered as standard and charge a buyer-friendly price.

The formula is set to prove its worth in a sector that's being badly hit by the credit crunch and the resulting economic downturn.

The Korean-built Captiva's exterior boasts bold features and dynamic lines with the design looking to combine ruggedness with a style that is not too 'in your face.'

There's an eye-catching grille with a prominent Chevy 'bow-tie' logo, smart silver-effect front and rear skid plates, large jewelled headlamps and a coupe-like window line.

The seven-seat Captiva LT model features a clever seating layout allowing the two rear seats to be folded flat into the floor with almost no effort - leaving an unencumbered load bay.

More luggage space can be gained through folding flat the second row of chairs and the front passenger seat giving the SUV a capacity of up to 1,565 litres.

The tailgate features a clever rear window that opens to allow small items to be packed away.

Comfort is assured as there is acres of shoulder, leg and headroom for all, while soft-touch plastics, good quality materials and an excellent fit and finish make the interior of the Captiva one of the smartest ever produced by Chevrolet.

The LT trim offers a plethora of treats including air conditioning, power steering, rear parking sensors, electric windows and door mirrors, front fog lamps, alloy wheels, plus an integrated flush-fitting CD/radio system with steering wheel mounted audio controls.

The two-litre diesel engine offers plenty of pulling power and a decent rate of acceleration that makes overtaking surprisingly easy.

It can be a bit noisy when worked hard but once cruising speed is achieved it quietens down.

The oil burner also returns a decent fuel economy figure for an SUV easing the financial burden imposed by car tax and insurance costs.

The Captiva is pretty smooth and sure-footed on the road thanks to the four-wheel drive system - although it can get a bit bouncy when more severe bumps and hollows are encountered.

The handling is perhaps its weakest feature as the Chevy leans a bit in corners while the steering is light but lacks feel.

Safety is taken care of with twin front and curtain airbags, ISOFIX child seat mountings and three-point seat belts, while peace of mind is also given by an alarm and deadlocks. Driver aids like stability control and hill descent control are also included.

In short, the Captiva gives Chevrolet a decent contender in a competitive market and anyone looking to buy an SUV should consider it for their shortlist.

FAST FACTS

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 Diesel LT (7seat) 5dr

Price : £21,695

Mechanical : 150PS, 1,991cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 5spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 113mph

0-62mph : 11.3 secs

Combined mpg : 38.2

Insurance group : 12

CO2 emissions : 197g/km

BiK rating : 29%

Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 5yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust