Chevrolets attractive facelifted Captiva had one glaring omission in its range a much-needed diesel version. Now with a 2.2 diesel motor, does it fill the gap?
Chevrolet Captiva diesel engine
It has taken awhile but Chevrolet has popped a diesel motor in its Captiva range. This engine, mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, offers 135kW and 400Nm on tap. The all-wheel drive system works a treat in mud as the picture attests but if you want take it seriously off-road, be aware that the low profile sporty 19-inch tyres are at risk of punctures from sharp objects. The real strength of the Captiva is its interior and value-for-money. Its rather refined, quiet and you really cant hear any wind or engine noise. The diesel version only comes in top-of-the-range LTZ specification which means youre getting quite a lot quality kit.
Chevrolet Captiva diesel interior features
Leather trim on the gear lever, steering wheel and seats is standard, as is a power adjustable drivers seat. Great comfort features like climate control, automatic lights and windscreen wipers, cruise control, automatic anti-dazzle rear view mirror, audio/Bluetooth, rear park assist, sunroof, and roof rails are all standard too. Did I mention that the Captiva can also seat seven people? Or, fold the extra seats back down and youve got a massive boot.
Chevrolet Captiva diesel ride quality
Its comfortable, spacious and an absolute pleasure to drive. It is one of the few vehicles that Id actually buy purely for levels of comfort and never have traffic jams been so pleasurable. Sit back, turn the music up and relax. The gearbox, while not as responsive as some transmissions, works just fine when youre cruising. Should you wish to go anywhere in a rush, knock the lever to manual override and treat it like a tiptronic unit.
Chevrolet Captiva diesel worrying economy
Look, the addition of the diesel engine in the Captiva is a wise business move by General Motors. The petrol engines are good but theyre a little on the thirsty side and the four pot units lack in-gear urge. My gripe is this particular motor. It drives okay but the first alarm bell went off in my head as I measured the fuel consumption. It was reading just over the 11L/100km mark and I hadnt been pushing it at all plus it was in Economy mode. Yes, Im prepared to waive this aside and put it down to the newness and mass of the vehicle, but then the second alarm bell starting ringing when I checked the specs. Chevrolet claims 8L/100km on a combined cycle. Hang on a minute
Chevrolet Captiva diesel conclusion
While there are serious discrepancies in the claimed versus realistic fuel consumptionfigure, theres no doubt the diesel version of the Captiva is the one to have. Its almost R30,000 cheaper than the V6 petrol at R427,500 and previously I would have been recommending the all-wheel drive 2.4-litre as the best but this diesel makes far more sense.
Chevrolet Captiva diesel price in South Africa
The diesel-powered Chevrolet Captiva retails for R447 500
We like:
· Looks brawny
· All-wheel drive suits most scenarios
· Diesel engine a welcome addition to the range
· Good and comfortable ride
We dont like:
· Surprisingly thirsty
· Low-profile tyres are the weakest link if you want to go seriously offroad
Chevrolet Captival diesel 2.2D AWD LTZ specifications
Engine: 2.2-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 135 kW @ 3 800 rpm
Torque: 400 N.m @ 2 00 rpm
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Wheels: 19-inch
0-100 km/h: 10.1 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy: 8l/100km (claimed combined cycle)
Also consider:
Subaru Forester
Honda CR-V
