As the Captiva is a new model I thought I’d start this blog by building a product guide.
This Chevy SUV is just the right size for UK roads. It’s a sensible family car. Bigger than smaller compact SUVs, they may be more for couples. The new Chevrolet Captiva is a crossover mid-size SUV which can give as much space and versatility as some large SUVs which are too big for UK roads and our parking spaces.
I like the Chevrolet Captiva’s lifestyle looks. It’s friendlier than the utility, wannabe a Hummer look. Although I equally like the slab-sided look.
It’s also a good thing the Captiva’s a Chevrolet, the most experienced and largest sellers of SUVs.
Inside the Chevrolet Captiva the driver enjoys an elevated view of the road with ergonomics similar to the proven Vauxhall Zafira. Passengers have plenty of room and the comfort of adult sized seats. There’s also the choice of seven-seat versatility or a large load space.
The Captiva’s handling is car-like as the centre of gravity, tyres, and suspension isn’t too tall. Front wheel drive makes the Captiva easier to handle on slippery surfaces. On demand four-wheel drive is fitted to all but one model. Overall the Chevrolet Captiva feels more stable and responsive on the road than large truck based SUVs.
The new Chevrolet is also far more economical than large truck based SUVs, because of its car-like construction, transmission systems and road tyres.
Best of all, the Chevrolet is great value for money.
The new Chevrolet Captiva’s also safe with car-like unibody construction giving you front crumple zones, side protection and whole rear protection. That’s if an accident is not prevented by ABS and ESP systems.
Certainly the Chevrolet Captiva is worth seeing and trying IF you are interested in a big versatile family vehicle with plenty of space but with car like driving, economy and safety.
I will be posting the following:
1) Dimensions and weight – compared to other classes
2) Versatility
3) Luggage or load space.
4) Exterior style and trim options.
5) What do people see in these cars – what does it stand for
6) Interior appearance – trim level options and equipment
7) Passenger comfort.
Driver comfort.
9) Driving – performance – engine and gearbox options and figures
10) Driving – steering and suspension.
11) Take a DIM view of costs
12) Car depreciation.
13) Opportunity cost
14) Running costs – maintenance, insurance, rfl and fuel.
15) Safety – education
16) Safety – awareness
17) Safety – accident prevention
18) Safety – ABS
19) Safety – ESP
20) How being big and strong doesn’t mean you’re safe – safety – crash protection.
Regards
Ralph Spence
