You could have missed Chevrolet's Captiva, as the company's 'full-blooded sports SUV' hasn't exactly storm the sales charts. A revised range aims to change that, with the fresher looking, better equipped and more efficient line-up debuting at the Paris Motor Show later this month.
Externally, the Captiva gets a reshaped bonnet and side air vents on the wings, a new grille, prism-style headlamps and LED indicators incorporated into the rear-view mirror housings. Inside, Chevrolet promises a more upmarket feel and look thanks to new finishes and textures and 'ice-blue' back-lighting. Equipment enhancements include aux-in, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, Hill Start Assist and an electronic parking brake.
Under the re-shaped bonnet is a choice of three new engines. There are two 2.2-litre turbodiesels with either 163- or 183hp; or a 2.4-litre petrol unit with 171hp - which is unlikely to be offered to Irish buyers. The new engines are mated to either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Seating for five or seven remains, as does the choice of front- or four-wheel drive models. Chevrolet is also promising greater refinement thanks to reduced wind and road noise, while changes to the chassis are claimed to enhance the cornering, roll and ride characteristics.
Debuting in Paris alongside the new Orlando, Aveo and Cruze hatchback, the revised Captiva will be in Chevrolet showrooms from Spring 2011.