Monday 13 September 2010

CHEVROLET UPGRADES CAPTIVA

The new Captiva SUV will be seen for the first time at the Paris Motor Show, featuring a new front end design, a range of enhancements to the interior and new engines and transmissions. Captiva will be one of four Chevrolet world premieres.

The Captiva combines confident and dynamic new styling with an available active-on-demand all-wheel drive system that distributes power as needed. It retains the advantages of its adaptable, theatre-style seating in three rows which comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers.

A number of features are immediately noticeable when viewing the new Captiva from the front, including its athletic stance: the sharply sculptured bonnet, Chevrolet’s signature dual-port grille with the Chevrolet 'bow-tie' sited proudly in the middle and the prism style headlamps and integrated LED turn signals on the outside rearview mirrors.

Moving around to the front fenders, the side air vents now take on a more angular shape to emphasize the new Captiva's sportiness, while from the A pillars back, the Captiva retains its handsome profile, characterized by a sleek, rising shoulder line.

Accentuating the new Captiva's body are the new exterior colour palette and the sculpted wheel arches which will accommodate wheel sizes of 17 to 19 inches.

Many changes are also taking place under the Captiva's bonnet. In Europe, four new powerful engines will come standard with a new manual or automatic six-speed transmission for a powerful, smooth ride. The new engine line-up, which is comprised of two petrol engines (2.4L and 3.0L) and two turbo-diesel variants (2.2L), incorporates a host of advanced technologies aimed at delivering an optimal balance of performance and fuel economy.

With the introduction of a new 3.0 litre, 192kW, V6 petrol engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, the Captiva will be one of the most powerful vehicles in its class in Europe. The new 2.2 litre common rail turbo-charged diesel engines will be available with either 122kW or 137kW outputs. Rounding off the new line-up is a 2.4 litre dual overhead cam petrol unit with variable valve timing, rated at 128kW. Both the 2.2 litre turbo-diesels as well as the 2.4 litre petrol engine can be ordered in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.

The new Captiva's chassis has been tuned to further enhance vehicle dynamics, improving cornering, roll characteristics and ride feel. With Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Braking Assist System (BAS) standard, as well as front-, side- and curtain airbags, the Captiva also provides a high level of safety.

The Captiva's new and upgraded interior now features an array of new finishes and textures including all-new seat fabrics and interior décor appointments that give the SUV an upscale feel and look. Chevrolet’s designers applied elements featured on other new Chevrolet models, such as the ice-blue back lighting and the 'wrap-around' design of the front fascia which flows into the front driver's and passenger doors creating the dual-cockpit look.

The new Captiva features Hill Start Assist, eliminating "roll-back" on hills and an electric park brake that opens up space for further storage in the centre console, including two large cup holders.

The audio system includes an auxiliary input, USB-port and Bluetooth connectivity. Passengers will be able to enjoy their audio experience thanks to multiple acoustic measures resulting in low road, wind and engine noise. Captiva is available with a touch-screen navigation system with rear view camera for safety and parking assistance.

With its European launch scheduled for spring 2011, Captiva offers powerful, yet efficient engines, all-wheel drive capabilities, roominess and versatility for up to seven passengers.

STORY BY GM

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