Chevrolet Captiva facelift would break the cover in 2012

Chevrolet Captiva SUV will soon be joining the league of models that have undergone facelift in the recent times. The modified Captiva is expected to launch during the initial months of 2012 in the Indian car market. This upgraded version is set to lure the buyers by offering an all new meaning to its style and luxury quotient. The first look may give a feel of the Captiva SUV being inspired by Mitsubishi Outlander. However, an oversized grille, new headlamps and other attractive alterations to its interiors clear the air.

It is important to note that, while all the existing versions of Captiva are powered by a 2.0 litre VCDi I-4 engine, the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva is believed to be equipped with an addition diesel variant backed by the strength of 2.2 litre turbocharged diesel engine. Furthermore, the 2.2 litre diesel variant will come out with two variants, one affixed with turbocharger and other without it. While the engine carrying turbocharger would deliver a maximum power of 184 bhp with 400 Nm peak torque, the other one is likely to produce 163 bhp power and 350 Nm torque.

The interior is affixed with plethora of advanced features like a brand new audio system with Aux-in, USB-port, Bluetooth connectivity and the standard handbrake being replaced with a new electric park brake. Two one-litre cup holders is also quite a useful feature.

The handling quotient has also undergone changes in the form of reworked chassis that enables the new model to step up its vehicle dynamics, improvement in cornering and feel during the drive. Along with these changes the latest facelift would come up with Electronic Stability control, traction control, Hill Start assist and braking assist. According to Chevrolet, the revised Captiva also displays new finishes and textures including all-new seat fabrics and interior decor being upgraded.

Director of Sales for General Motors India, Vikas Jain said, “We have enough demand for the Captiva and we are still not able to meet the current demand. So we will not be launching the facelifted Captiva this year. GM India will completely focus on volumes of 2011. The Captiva segment as such doesn’t align with that strategy.”

It seems that General Motors aims to get identified by its car volumes in India, in the coming year. The leading car maker has launched the Beat Diesel and targets to achieve 7,500 units (both petrol and diesel) sale for each month of the year 2011. Together with the Spark and the U-VA, it aims to exceed the 10,000 units sales figure of hatchbacks every month.

Thus, Chevrolet confirms to participate actively in the Indian car market, as it is coming up with varied options under one model, in order to keep the interest of the buyers intact.