2012 Chevrolet Captiva Review
The beast is ready to get unleashed, and it is roaring with a wide open mouth. We are talking about the Chevy’s latest entry in 2012 in the form of Captiva. It captivated many hearts world-over previously, but it is hungry for more, and it is ready to win more. Drivers and passengers, we present to you the all-new made-over full-blooded 2012 Chevrolet Captiva.
Chevrolet has been manufacturing SUVs since 1930s, and the products have been getting better and better with time. This new and improved compact SUV is there to win more and more hearts – through its looks and performance.
The machine scores pretty high on space, comfort, and power. Amidst the external and internal changes made in new model, Captiva still carries the unique theater-style seating, which proves to be comfortable even for seven tall folks, sitting anywhere in the car. The electronically-controlled all-wheel powered system dispenses power as needed.
The 2012 Chevrolet is there to make a mark. Let us get to know about this beast.
Features of 2012 Chevrolet Captiva
External and Internal Framework
It is clearly evident that a lot of effort has been put in to make this vehicle more dynamic. Masculinity and wildness clearly shows in outlook of this car. The improved chassis enable driver to control the vehicle in a better way, even on the curvy swaying roads, especially through corners. Driver’s visibility has been increased, giving a wider view. Efforts have been made to make this vehicle more compatible with aerodynamics, so as to make it run stably at higher speeds. The 2012 Captiva would be gliding faster than all other competitors, Chevrolet claims.
Despite all the cosmetic changes, the vehicle has maintained its character. It can clearly be recognized as member of the Chevrolet family. The original Captiva look is still present on the face and overall design of the SUV. It stands with that same confident stance as it has been since 2006. It still maintains that compact essence.
The beast looks rugged and tough from outside, but is quite soft, sophisticated, and stylish from inside. The interiors are laden with high-quality fashion fabric. This side shows off its femininity. The design is great and hep, making it a present-era car that every man desires.
Seating arrangement and options still remain there. You still have an option to choose between a five or a seven seater. The seat splits have been improved and you can get more space now with splitting, sliding, and arranging the seats. It can be made to look a complete comfortable all-amenity room. Storage space is amongst best in the class.
Suspension system has been improved and finely tuned, making it a better vehicle for uneven tracks. Driver gets better handling experience and passengers get a comfortable ride crossing through the rough-tough terrains, all because of the improved suspension system.
The cleverly placed and shaped character lines give it an overall muscular and aggressive look.
What Moves this Monster?
The monster has an improved heart for better performance under its handsome hood. The 2012 Chevrolet Captiva is offered in four types of engines, all mated with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
The line-up comprises of two gasoline engines. One, a 2.4-liter VVT engine, and second, a 3.0-liter V6. The others would be two variants of 2.2-liter VVT turbo diesel engines.
The 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine would churn out 258 horsepower at 6,900 rpm and a peak torque of 288 lb-ft at 5,800 rpm, making it the most powerful SUV available in the market in its class. Captiva would be able to touch a speed of 198 kilometers per hour with this engine. It would be able to sprint from 0 kilometers per hour of speed to 100 kilometers per hour of speed in just 8.6 seconds, consuming around 10.7 liters of fuel for covering every 100 kilometers.
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The 2.4-liter VVT engine would deliver healthy 167 horsepower and peak torque of 230 pound-feet at 4,600 rounds per minute. It would be available both in manual and automatic transmissions. When powered by front wheels and manual transmission, it was able to reach a top speed of 190 kilometers per hour. It sprinted from 0 kilometers per hour of speed to 100 kilometers per hour of speed in 10.5 seconds. Fuel economy for this engine was noted to be 8.9 liters for every 100 kilometers.
The two 2.2-liter turbo diesel engines with common rail fuel injection technology would be available in two power outputs – 163 horsepower and 184 horsepower. Both the engines have almost similar technical specifications, differing primarily in engine outputs.
The engine delivering 184 horsepower would do it at 3,800 rounds per minute and would produce a peak torque of 400 pound-feet at just 2,000 rounds per minute. With this engine, Captiva touched an astonishing top speed of 200 kilometers per hour and sprinted from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour of speed in just 9.4 seconds.
The second version with maximum output of 163 horsepower delivers it at 3,800 rounds per minute and produces a peak torque of 350 pound-feet at 2,000 rounds per minute. With this, 2012 Captiva topped speed of 189 kilometers per hour and jumped from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour of speed in 9.9 seconds.
Both these diesel engines consumed around 6.4 liters of fuel for covering a stretch of 100 kilometers.
Driving Experience
Driving the all-new 2012 Chevrolet Captiva is a joyous experience. The modifications have been made to make the vehicle a complete joyrider.
Captiva is ever composed and stable on all the surfaces – on and off the road. It is a true sports utility vehicle. Not even at a single point it feels that this sporty monster is weak.
The improved and finely-tuned McPherson suspensions absorb shocks in front, whereas similar duty is performed by independent 4-link axles at backside, taking the driver’s and passengers’ experience to next level of comfort.
Responses from the electronically-controlled speed-sensitive steering are immaculate, providing driver with higher steering precision with less input of effort. All in all, the drive and ride is smooth and highly comfortable.
Safety and Security Features
Captiva is loaded with all the latest security and safety features, as are other high-end products from Chevrolet. The list of safety features includes electronic stability control, traction control, brake assist, all-side airbags, hill assist, etc.
Tech-Wealth!
The 2012 Captiva is one high-tech vehicle as it contains array of technologies to offer. Included in the list are high-end music system with auxiliary jack with controls on steering wheel, Bluetooth, USB, iPod interface, and a 7-inch multifunction touchscreen with navigation system.
Prices and Availability of 2012 Chevrolet Captiva
The 2012 Chevrolet Captiva would be available in UK from a starting price of £22,000. Beast is anticipated to hit the roads in end of 2011 or early 2012.
Final Verdict
This is the car you want if you want to do everything – work, shop, play, and off-roading. The 2012 Captiva is the right mixture of performance, comfort, and economy. It is for people who want to take their family for a joyous trip, and later go out and have some adventure for their own self. It can prove to be an extension of your lifestyle.
Go, grab your keys now!
