Chevrolet Captiva

Chevrolet has succeeded in producing a competent, practical SUV, though it lacks sparkle.

Auto Express Car Reviews

On the road price: £19,325 - £25,455
For : Value for money, strong diesel, seven seats
Against : Limited driver appeal, interior plastics, fuel economy

Driving
There are plenty of positives about the 2.0-litre VCDi engine that will form the majority of Captiva sales. While it’s a little noisy at start-up, once on the move it feels strong and urgent, and with 148bhp it matches powerful rivals for power. There’s minimal diesel clatter, even under hard acceleration, although it’s still not as smooth as the best out there. But the biggest let-down is the five-speed manual gearbox. The notchy change and vague nature, combined with a springy clutch, make for a far from relaxing experience. What’s more, a short first ratio and long second mean town driving is very frustrating. However, it’s a decent performer at the test track. On the road, though, the Captiva is hampered by its slow, lifeless steering, along with poor body control. It doesn’t inspire confidence, especially on twisting roads, and isn’t that composed or planted to the road. The brakes aren’t that effective, either.

Marketplace
As brands go, Chevrolet is up there among the most recognised in the world. But until now, it has been saddled in the UK as little more than a range of rebadged Daewoos. The flagship Captiva has been charged with changing that; as such, it’s a crucial car. The Korean-built SUV is well-proportioned, which is a good start; the rising waistline and sloping roof help provide a sporty feel, though it is a little forgettable and unassuming overall. There are two engines offered – one diesel, one petrol, although the 2.4-litre petrol is only offered in base front-wheel-drive LS guise. The diesel comes in LT and LTX trims, with all but the cheapest models offering seven seats. There’s also an auto option for the diesel, which should help it compete with key rivals such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CR-V and Kia Sorento. Don’t forget Vauxhall’s Antara, either; it’s the same car underneath, and is even built in the same factory! It’s the Chevrolet that’s better value, though.

Owning
Inside, the interior does little to inspire. It has a Vauxhall feel – not surprising, as the Captiva’s sister car is the Luton brand’s Antara. All the controls are logically placed and quality is acceptable, but the stereo on our test car seemed unable to stay tuned to one station for very long. However our main grip is the centre console; this is dominated by a large stowage cubby, which looks unsightly. Even if you specify the optional sat nav, the cubby remains in place, with the screen sitting on top of the dash. There’s better news when it comes to the driving position, as the seat provides a wide range of adjustment. But you will need those large door mirrors, as rearward visibility is poor. Passengers in the middle bench are well looked after; legroom is generous and three adults fit in easily. But this level of comfort isn’t carried over to the rearmost seats, which feel cramped. Annoyingly, when they are in place, you have to remove the rear parcel shelf, and there is nowhere on board to store it. Yet we’re impressed with the chair’s simple folding mechanism. And overall, the Captiva is great value. In terms of equipment and pricing, you’re getting great value for money. Particularly when you consider exceptional retained values of over 50 per cent – they amazed us. It’s a shame our test economy wasn’t better, though; we averaged just 32.8mpg, though our car was fresh off the production line. With a bit of running in, we’d expect this figure to rise.