The Holden Captiva is aimed at the mid-range family Sports Utility Vehicle segment of a very competitive sector of the market. With the Captiva selling well in its early days on the Australian market, Holden has now added a turbo-diesel option to further boost its chances.
The turbo-diesel engine comes from South Korea, as does the rest of the vehicle, unlike the existing V6 petrol engine which is made in Holden's Port Melbourne plant. There's a minimum of turbo lag off the line, though there's less acceleration in overtaking situations than some will like. Captiva only has a diesel rattle when it's idling, and even then it's much more noticeable from outside the car than in. Once on the move it is almost as refined as the petrol V6.
Aesthetically, the Captiva is a good looking car. Everything is neat and pleasing front and rear lights are comfortingly sensible, yet well formed. The shoulder-line is quite high, however closer inspection reveals this to be elementary to a clever design feature raising the shoulder line has the effect of lowering the cabin floor without compromising ground clearance, providing easier passenger access.
Although this is nominally a South Korean vehicle, on-road comfort and handling are good because considerable work was put into the design by Holden, particularly in the suspension department. Holden has specified all imports to this country be fitted with ESP electronic stability assistance which excellent news.
There's seating for seven, but four adults and three children is the maximum realistic load if you are travelling for any distance.
Though sold as a soft-roader, the Captiva has good electronic traction aids and ground clearance, so can tackle moderately serious off-road conditions if driven correctly.
Quite aside from value for money, the Holden Captiva's ability to transport it's occupants in comfort and safety, on or off the road, will no doubt carve Holden a successful slice of the local market.
