With more than four million cars sold in 120 countries throughout the world, Captiva ranks amongst the top sports utility vehicles (SUV) in the world.

Built to cater to the needs of international drivers, this compact SUV is not just good looking but also practical, with a five or seven seat capability (obtained by adjusting the third row) to carry a maximum of seven passengers in comfort, ensured by the three-level adjustable a/c channel in the rear trunk. Alternatively, the flexible seat arrangement can be folded completely flat throughout to create spacious storage, easily accessed through the two-door tailgate.

Back in the 'cockpit', the elegant, fully integrated and flush-fit 'infotainment' unit in the middle console aims to provide best of everything for drivers. The multi-info digital display on the master console shows clearly a vast range of driving information: fuel efficiency, trip average speed, trip period, predicted driving distance from available fuel, outside temperature and a digital compass.

Child safety is heightened with a two-child restraint device - to the same standards as in European cars - while the multi-function steering lets you take control of the audio and the cruise control systems without turning away from the road. An intelligent sensor activates windscreen wipers as soon as the first drops of rain appear on the windshield; wiper speed adjusts automatically to the volume of rain and the rear windscreen wipers activate when reverse gear is engaged.

Captiva's design is stylish and compact, with curves all around the vehicle to reduce wind impact. Other features include the 'Tiptronic' 5-speed manual gear change, a third set of brake lights installed on both sides, a heater system that reduces condensation, 'projector' headlights with four levels of brightness and a parking light that stays on for 30 seconds after the engine is switched off, to ensure a safe walk to your door.

The 2.0 litre diesel engine, the newest turbo model from Italy, produces 150 hp, while the 2.4 litre DOCH petrol option will give you 136 hp. The ECM (Engine Control Mode) and TCM (Transaxle Control Mode) synchronize the injection system and gear changes to balance with your speed and driving situation.

With the option to select 2- or 4-wheel drive, the latter features an active on demand all-wheel-drive system. As driving conditions dictate, the rear axle is instantly employed via an electronically controlled electro-magnetic coupling to give maximum traction in ratios of 50:50, 60:40 and 70:40. When driving on tough terrain, the active torque on demand is employed to maintain the car's balance and a self-leveling mechanism keeps the front and back at the same level. The system also seamlessly interacts with the EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and ABS systems, enhancing both driver control and safety margins.

Captiva is a spacious, practical and tough vehicle designed with optimum on-road ride and handling characteristics but, at the same time, is highly capable in difficult weather and road conditions. In terms of safety, the Captiva is up there with the best, boasting automatic safety systems that are active through 360 degrees. The systems consist of ARP (Active Rollover Protection) that distributes the braking force into all four wheels, TCS (Traction Control System) to reduce free-wheeling and protect balance over rough terrain, together with AWD (Active on Demand 4WD) to maintain control. When braking, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) calculates your degree of turn, and then adjusts braking force and engine power for optimum safe braking, while in an emergency-HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) calculates and adjusts your braking in relation to the object in front of the car. Finally, HDC (Hill Descent Control) features an on/off button for use on steep roads to synchronise speed and braking.

The Captiva's purpose-designed monocoque structure has been tested to 4-star safety standards by Euro NCAP, achieving a high level of driver and passenger protection in collisions, while the doors have a built-in safety beam to lessen the effect of a side-impact. In a head-on impact, the seat belts are designed pull both the driver and passenger slowly backwards, while the steering wheels and safety brake pedal collapse to prevent lower body injuries.

For anyone looking at SUV's, Chevrolet's "Captiva" must be on the agenda.

For more information contact : Chevrolet Phuket
3/17 Thepkasattri Rd., Muang Phuket   Tel: +66 (0) 7623 7200-2
24-32 Bypass Rd., Muang Phuket   Tel: +66 (0) 7626 1500-8
Website: www.chevrolet.co.th