The Chevrolet Captiva in India was primarily offered with a 2.2-liter VCDi diesel engine. This 4-cylinder turbocharged unit produced around 184 bhp of power at 3800 rpm and a robust 424 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm. It was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, with some variants offering All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The claimed mileage ranged from 12.12 kmpl (AWD Automatic) to 14.6 kmpl (2WD Manual).

When considering this model, a thorough pre-purchase inspection of the engine and transmission is crucial. Look for signs of excessive black smoke from the exhaust, which could indicate turbocharger issues or fuel system problems. Listen for unusual engine noises. Check for smooth gear shifts in both manual and automatic variants. Inquire about the service history, specifically regarding oil changes and diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance if applicable. Some owners reported engine-related issues, including potential turbo failures or "back compression" problems, so a detailed inspection by a diesel specialist is highly recommended.

Ride and Handling

The Chevrolet Captiva offered a comfortable and composed ride, particularly on highways, thanks to its MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned to absorb road imperfections well, providing a relatively plush experience for occupants.

During a test drive, assess the ride quality over various road surfaces. Listen for any suspension noise (clunking, squeaking), which could indicate worn bushes or shock absorbers. Test the power steering for responsiveness and any excessive play. The Captiva, being a large SUV, exhibits some body roll in corners, but it generally feels stable. Ensure the brakes feel firm and effective, as braking performance is critical for a vehicle of this size and weight.

The interior of the Chevrolet Captiva is designed to offer a spacious and comfortable experience, particularly as a 7-seater SUV. It features a practical layout with decent quality materials for its time. The seating is versatile, with a foldable third row to expand cargo space.

For this model, thoroughly inspect the fabric or leather upholstery (depending on the variant) for wear, tears, or stains. Test the functionality of all power windows, mirrors, and the sunroof (if equipped). Check the operation of all three rows of seating, ensuring the folding mechanisms work smoothly. Pay attention to the condition of interior plastics and trim for scratches or rattles. Verify that the multi-zone automatic climate control system is fully functional, as AC performance can be a concern in older vehicles. The boot space is a decent 269 liters with all seats up, expanding significantly with the rear seats folded.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the Chevrolet Captiva was relatively basic by modern standards, typical for its era. Higher variants usually featured an integrated 2-DIN audio system with CD/MP3 playback, USB, and AUX connectivity. Bluetooth connectivity for telephony might also be present.

When evaluating a Captiva, test all audio functions, including radio reception and media playback via USB. Ensure Bluetooth pairing works if available. Given that it's a model from a brand that has exited the market, expect no future software updates for the infotainment system. Any advanced features like navigation would likely be aftermarket additions.

The exterior design of the Chevrolet Captiva is characterized by its robust and muscular SUV stance. It features a prominent grille, large headlamps, and a generally understated yet imposing design that emphasized practicality. The facelifted version (post-2012) brought a more modern look with updated front and rear fascias.

When inspecting a Captiva, pay close attention to the overall condition of the bodywork for any signs of rust, especially in areas prone to moisture accumulation. Check for consistent panel gaps, which might indicate past accident repairs. Examine the headlamps and taillamps for hazing or cracks. The large dimensions, with a length of approximately 4673 mm, width of 1849 mm, and height of 1755 mm, along with a wheelbase of 2705 mm, give it a substantial footprint. Inspect the alloy wheels (typically 17-inch) for curb damage and the tires for uneven wear.

Safety features in the Chevrolet Captiva were standard for its segment at the time. It typically included dual front airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and disc brakes on all four wheels. Higher variants might have offered side and curtain airbags, taking the total to 6 airbags. Other features included rear parking sensors, a rearview camera (in some variants), and a strong body structure.

When buying, ensure all airbags are intact and there are no warning lights on the dashboard. Test the ABS by performing a controlled hard brake. Check the functionality of parking sensors and the rearview camera. It's important to note that crash test ratings for the Indian-spec Captiva are not widely available from independent bodies like Global NCAP, so buyers should exercise caution and prioritize a mechanically sound vehicle.

As a discontinued model, the Chevrolet Captiva primarily competes in the pre-owned SUV market. Its direct rivals during its active sales period included the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. In the current market, it would be cross-shopped against older models of these SUVs, as well as other large SUVs that have since been introduced.

The Captiva's key differentiator in the pre-owned market is its potentially lower acquisition cost compared to its more popular rivals, offering a spacious 7-seater SUV experience at a more accessible price. However, the challenge lies in the availability of spare parts and specialized service, given Chevrolet's exit from the Indian retail market.

The Chevrolet Captiva, now a part of the pre-owned car landscape, offers a compelling proposition for those seeking a large, comfortable, and powerful SUV without the high price tag of newer models. Its spacious 7-seater cabin and robust diesel engine make it a practical choice for families or those needing significant cargo capacity.

For individuals considering this model, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with Chevrolet vehicles is absolutely essential, with particular attention to the engine and transmission. The availability of spare parts and specialized service, while guaranteed by law for a period, might require more effort to source compared to currently active brands. Furthermore, as a diesel vehicle, it will be subject to the 10-year NCR ban, a crucial consideration for buyers in that region. If a well-maintained example with a verifiable service history can be found, the Captiva offers a substantial and comfortable SUV experience that delivers good value.