Holden Captiva SUV
October 6, 2006 by Alborz Fallah
Yep, here it is, another new Holden. The Holden Captiva SUV. The all new Captiva sports utility vehicle range, priced from $35,990 is set to enter the market as Holden’s response to the ever popular Ford Territory. Holden is quick to point out that the new Captiva is is closest in exterior dimensions to the BMW X5 whilst offering five or seven-seat capacity depending on model. However Holden isn’t very quick to point out that yes.. infact this is another Korean car, sure its engine is the same as the Commodore, but my friends, build quality must be inspected.
Holden says the SUV has been extensively tested in Australia and is powered by a locally-made 3.2 litre Alloytec high performance V6 engine. All models feature an active all-wheel-drive system, a five-speed automatic transmission with Active Select, Descent Control System and Active Rollover Protection as standard.
The acclaimed crash avoidance system Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) is also standard across the range, while curtain airbags are available across the range and standard on three of the four models. Captiva gives SUV buyers a choice of highly specified SX, CX and LX models and is topped by the Euro-styled Captiva MaXX at $42,990.
Captiva SX is priced from $35,990, Captiva CX from $38,990, Captiva LX from $41,990 and the sporty Captiva MaXX from $42,990. With Holden-tuned chassis dynamics for on and off-road driving, Captiva will appeal to buyers in
the medium and compact-sized SUV market segments.
Captiva SX, CX and LX models return a competitive 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres and Captiva MaXX returns 11.6 litres/100kms per the ADR 81/01 standard. GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Denny Mooney, today said he was delighted to have Captiva join the Holden range.
Mr Mooney said Captiva had the style, performance and versatility to attract buyers of larger and
smaller SUVs.
“We’ve been waiting a long time to get the right SUV for the Australian market and Captiva fits the bill perfectly, it looks fantastic and offers the kind of flexibility customers demand from these types of
vehicles.Captiva represents outstanding value for money and at its heart is a Holden-built V6 engine that
ensures the type of performance that our customers expect for Australian conditions. The range of models and choice of five or seven seats will ensure Captiva appeals to a wide variety of people.” he said
Captiva is built at GM’s Bupyeong plant in South Korea. The SUV will be sold in a wide range of markets around the world.
Interior
Space is maximised in the Holden Captiva, which comfortably accommodates five or seven people, depending on model. Fold flat seating transforms the vehicle from a family-friendly wagon to a versatile and adaptable load carrier. In SX, CX and LX models, all passenger seats can be folded down to open up 1565 litres of cargo volume. It comes with practical items such as remote operated tailgate glass for quick access (SX, CX, LX), and more than 20 convenient storage solutions depending on model.
Stowaway features include a large wet/dry area beneath the load compartment floor, glovebox cooler, deep centre console bin, rear centre console storage and handy door bins all round. There are drink bottle holders, small item/coin and cup holders, a parking ticket holder, overhead sunglasses compartment, seatback pockets and under-seat storage tray (MaXX). There are three 12-volt power outlets.
Captiva’s driver-orientated cockpit layouts are accented in subtle satin silver and integrated infotainment units feature CD players (six-disc all models except SX) and MP3 compatibility. Tinted windows, power-operated all round, cruise control, power mirrors and air conditioning with particle filter are standard.
Captiva MaXX has a unique instrument cluster and centre console stack, sporty contoured seating and leather-wrap three-spoke steering wheel. Along with Captiva LX, it brings the added luxury of leather-faced charcoal seat and door trim,
eight-way adjustable driver seat, driver information centre graphic display and electronic climate control with air quality sensor.
Driver, front passenger and side curtain airbags are standard on all models except Captiva SX, where driver and front passenger airbags are standard and curtain airbags are optional. Further safety items include pyrotechnic front seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters, sash height adjustable front seatbelts, pedal release system and three child restraint anchor fittings.
A rigid, high-strength body shell is crash-optimised to distribute crash forces over defined load paths and help protect the integrity of the passenger safety cell.
Chassis
An extensive Australian development program ensured Holden engineers strongly influenced Captiva’s performance and ride and handling characteristics. The result is a refined ride that is comfortable and stable in varying local road conditions.
Captiva’s trim SUV proportions contribute to its feel and manoeuvrability in everyday driving situations. The power steering is tuned for handling response, precise road feel and optimum driver feedback.All models a have four-link independent rear suspension and MacPherson strut up front. Suspension settings have been carefully calibrated to deliver passenger sedan ride refinement and the ability to absorb surface imperfections.
Captiva CX and LX are equipped with a level ride suspension system which automatically maintains nominal ride height under differing load conditions. To align the vehicle with its sporty character, Captiva MaXX has unique damper calibrations and special rebound springs in the front struts for extra body roll control.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) is included as standard on all models. ESP helps prevent skidding in critical driving situations by applying corrective braking and reducing engine torque. An advanced Active Rollover Protection (ARP) system monitors body roll behaviour and averts possible rollover through early brake intervention. On steep downhill gradients, a Descent Control System (DCS) can automatically apply brakes at each wheel and allow the driver to concentrate primarily on steering.
Captiva is also equipped with four-channel ABS, traction control and hydraulic brake assist, which boosts pedal pressure when it detects emergency braking.
Active all-wheel-drive
The intelligent active all-wheel-drive system that contributes so much to Captiva’s versatile appeal is fully integrated into the ESP and ABS systems, improving vehicle control and active safety. In normal conditions, drive is via the front wheels. When driving conditions dictate, the active all- wheel-drive system instantly employs the rear axle via an electronically controlled electro-magnetic coupling to deliver maximum traction.
Powertrain
An all Australian-built Alloytec V6 engine powers Captiva. The high performance 3.2 litre powerplant was developed especially for this SUV program and is made at Holden’s Global V6 engine facility in Port Melbourne, Australia.
In Captiva SX, CX and LX models, it generates peak power of 169kW and produces 297Nm of peak torque. The equally torquey Captiva MaXX generates 167kw of peak power. The slight power difference is due to a unique exhaust system.
The all-alloy engine has continuously variable camshaft timing on inlet and exhaust valves and a variable intake manifold that enhances performance while reducing fuel consumption. It is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with Active Select on the shifter. Exhaust emissions comply with the Euro IV standard.
Styling
Holden design played a central role in shaping the strikingly stylish Captiva SUV. Its dynamic proportion and visual cues reflect the influences of former Holden Design Director Mike Simcoe and former Holden colleague Max Wolff.
Captiva has a boldly contoured engine hood, large jewelled headlamps and eye-catching grille with the Holden lion featured prominently on the crossbar. In profile, Captiva shows off rugged SUV elements such as bold wheel arches and protective mouldings, countered by chrome highlights and a coupe-style rear window treatment. The strong rear design is dominated by a large tailgate and substantial vertical tail lamps with indicators and reversing lamps contained in a central circular element.
Detailing such as fender vents, roof rails, skid and sill plates, integrated signal lamps in the side mirrors, fog lamps, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel design varies according to model designation. Captiva MaXX has unique design elements that set it apart from the other Captiva models. The lower section of the vehicle looks very robust and the body features bold lines and taut surfaces that combine to give a sporty muscular appearance with stylish elegance.
Color selection
Captiva SX, CX and LX are available in a choice of seven exterior finishes. MaXX has six.
- Arctic White (not available in MaXX)
- Mercury Silver metallic
- Granada Black metallic
- Merlot metallic
- Midnight Blue metallic
- Zest Metallic (not available in MaXX)
- Chino metallic
- Silverstone Grey metallic (exclusive to MaXX)
Metallic paint: $360
Holden Captiva recommended retail pricing Excluding delivery and government charges
- Captiva SX $35,990
- Captiva CX $38,990
- Captiva LX $41,990
- Captiva MaXX $42,990
Selected Captiva accessories
- Satellite navigation
- Roof-mounted DVD
- Mobile phone Bluetooth kit
- Nudge bar
- Rear cargo organiser
- Roof luggage box
- Car fridge
- Rear parking sensors
- Side steps
On sale
Captiva SX, LX and CX: October 2006.
Captiva MaXX: November 2006.
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You should always turn off ESP/Traction control when driving in sand. The result otherwise is that the engine will ask for max revs to move as the ESP applies brakes to stop the detected slippage, so an internal power struggle develops. Yoe end up creeping along at max revs.
Use button to turn off, if you have one. Not all cars do.
You should always turn off ESP/Traction control when driving in sand. The result otherwise is that the engine will ask for max revs to move as the ESP applies brakes to stop the detected slippage, so an internal power struggle develops. You end up creeping along at max revs.
Use button to turn off, if you have one. Not all cars do.
good
feels good
drives good
life good
enjoy goods
Have a Captiva Cx with about 7k on the clock. Have been experiencing problems since day 1 with a knocking noise coming from the front passenger wheel when turning left at low speed. Also pulls to the left really badly.
In addition the fuel gauge, once it reaches 3/4 tank will go back upto reading full tank, (fuel range comp does the same), it won’t come back down until about 1/4 of a tank or below.
I have taken it back to the dealership that I bought it from 5 times now and they can’t repair the faults.
Has anyone else had similar problems?
Another small problem is the passenger sun visor won’t close and has had to be replaced twice.
I want to go to VIC this season and need some snow chains for my LX (235/55 R18 – 18″x7″)any suggestions?
Ive had my @lt deisel CX since Jan 08 & so far clocked up 5500km & I havent had any real issues. Most of my driving is suburburbian and im managing to ave around 580km – 620km per tank. The only real issues so far have been one of the middle row seats didnt latch down properly…. once! since then never done it again, Slight squeak in rear suspension and a slight rattle in exhaust (this one think I can fix).
So far Ive found it to be a great vehicle fits my family of 5 with reasonable comfort, got the 6 stacker filled and the sterio cranks ok lol. reversing I dont have to much of an issue with I find the side mirrors give me pretty good behind but because of the small rear window you do tend to rely on the rear sensors so if youre not sure it could pay to check before reversing.
Ive had it up to 110kmh so far and she just purred along didnt miss a beat not strange and unwanted noises either.
Just thought id put up a positive note bout the “old girl”
Hi: I bought a Chevrolet Captiva LTX in Spain, where I am living. It is very similar to Holden; well, Holden Captiva seems to me a mix between Chevrolet Captiva on the exterior and Opel Antara in the interior. All the buttons are the same than in Opel models. So, my Captiva is not a Holden but … Here is my opinion.
3000 km done, the only problem I found was the front passenger door (as happened to Woz, we are the only people in the web with this issue!) getting locked. They changed the whole door lock and got solved.
Fuel (diesel, automatic) consumption: 9-10 litres on the highway, depending on wind and speed, and 12-13 litres on pure city traffic. I promise I tried to get to 8 litres driving constant and slow but … impossible.
I tested it on irregular paths and it worked fine, not being very exigent.
I think it is really a good car and I am enjoying it.
Recently purchased a 2007 LX Captiva…
Wanting to put roof racks on and have been quoted $300. Can anyone suggest a cheaper place to go? We live on the Gold Coast…thanks
Hi Kate. In April 07 I purchased a PRORACK roof rack for my Captiva LX from Autopro for $265. It is different to most racks as there is no overhang on the sides. It fits flush between the side rails. It was easy to fix. All the best.
have had SX diesel for 6mths now and almost 30,000km. Fuel economy great, even with roof racks. Fitted off-road tyres from day one as I had been told road noise was less than with the standard road tyres. don’t don’t don’t care after a trip down a VERY steep slippery hill was thankfull. Would seriously have felt more comfortable with low range on that day but did make it to the bottom. Was pretty nervous about having to turn around and get back up the hill if we had to. Considering Fraser Island later in the year but not sure how it will go in the sand without low range. happy with the car and would recommend. Only real gripe is 7 seater does no come with a manual g’box.
Have had an LX 60th Anniversary for 5 months. Fuel consumption started around 15l/100km, now at 12.9 ~ 13.0l/100km, considering I leave the aircon operational, I am quite happy in respect of published figure of 11.5
Have had SX Manual Diesel for 7 Months, 20000km on clock, also good fuel economy and she seams to be settling in very nicely,
Just a Question for Geoff (October 7th) what brand of off road tyre have you fitted?, I’ve been looking for A/T tyre to suit Captiva, but most of the brands dont seam to have the the size needed – 235/60/17…anyone know of any other (bigger) size tyre that can be fitted to standard 17′ rim?
I am Looking for a Holden Captiva diesel,but worry about the price for service,is it a lot expensive than a petrol engine for service ?
This has been an extremely interesting forum to read. Just thought I’d place a bit of input from another independent view. I work in construction and cover about 40,000km a year. I have just up graded from a Jeep Cherokee (petrol)to a Captiva CX 2 ltr Diesel manual. I have had both diesel and Petrol vehicles. If you want good fuel economy you should also at least look at the diesel plus it usually gives you great torque. The Jeep (like the V6 Captiva) will give you 15 lt/100km +. People seem to think because its only a 2 ltr the diesel is too small for the car. Crap.. It actually has more torque than the V6 (297 v 320 Nm). Without torque you cant turn a screw driver/screw. I dont no why Holden dont push the diesel/manual more or even make it availble in the SX & LX models. As for servicing. I on;ly take my car to the dealer for the first two services then have a local mechanic who is more witched on than those at Holden. Had a Vectra years ago with a terminal problem. Yes, you guessed it, Holden couldnt work it out but the local mechanic ran rings around them and fixed it even telling Holden what the cause was. He is a nice guy.
Any way bottom line is the Captiva is a great car but only as good as what you want out of it. Its not a 4WD or a BMW. If you winge about fuel ecomony buy a diesel plus better for towing.
Got the misssus a 2008 demo petrol LX for the right price.
Fuel economy is around the 12’s for around town (Melbourne) and 9’s on the highway which is a bit better than the old VS commodore.
Only one complaint with the Captiva: the kids fight to get a seat in the “boot”.
I purchased A new 2008 Captiva LX and the fuel economy is the worst off any car i have ever owned ! Petrol off course and struggle to 350km per tank.! And by no means do i drive it hard ,I would not be able to afford to drive it…Any ideas ? Holden Help Please……?
Hi,
I’ve got a 2007 Captiva LX and have found it to be a great car.
One problem – power steering. Vibration which can be felt through the steering wheel and a ‘whining’ sound, particularly noticeable at low speed. Initially thought the ‘whining’ may be child/wife/both however alas not. Anyone else had similar issues?
Taken it back to Holden twice and have been advised by a ‘mechanic’ that there’s no problem. I’m taking it back again next week and I will take said ‘mechanic’ for a drive and point out what the problem is.
Have read a few comments in the forum about people trying to understand how the Cappy performs off-road. I just took it on the drive to Wedge Island in WA (plenty of soft sand, corrugations and sections of limestone) and the car performed beautifully. Particuarly so when the pilot (me)has never been off the black-top before. All wheel drive kicks in seamlessly – you’ll never know it’s come on, apart from the fact you’re not stuck. Quite amazing given I drove there on road tyre pressures.
I’ve attached a URL for the wedge island run, so it provides an idea of difficutly etc for anyone trying to get an idea of how the car performs off-road.
http://www.exploroz.com/TrekNo.....h_Run.aspx
Now, I’m certainly not saying it’s a land-cruiser, but you can certainly have a bit of fun in one of these off-road.
Cheers.
I have just bought (22/06/09) a diesel LX Captiva.
When I was considering models I looked to youtube to see if 4WD clips had been posted-they have! there is a very special vid. of a Opel Antara( that’s what they are called in EU,get used to the global car industry all you lads griping about”holdenwoo”)climbing up a waterfall,look for it-unbelievable!
I have owned many new cars(15-I am a medical rep.)and have always wanted a 4WD.
Sadly,my wife is a bit of a greenie and hates them!-that is ’til she saw the Captiva! I have test driven all the competitors,I looked at Audi A5 (too expensive) VW Tiguan-pretty good but too small (I have 3 kids;dog)Renult Kolios hard one,based on proven Nissan XTrail with cool french interior but no 7 seats,Nissan XTrail-narrow body bad seats,Subaru Forester loved-but no 7 seats. Also looked at Mazda 7 and 9 but fuel consuption in both scary!
So, after looking at all these cars listed above,was Driveing night and saw a banner outside a Holden dealer “7 seats in all Captivas” test drove one-the next day-bought one the day after-based on brief drive and gut feel-good car in diesel mode petrol rated higher for towing not sure why as in diesel torque normally better.
Hi All,
I thought I would post some dissapointing news with regards to my 08 Lx Captiva DIESEL, I have owned it since Jan 08, 55k last month I went out to go to work, a complete engine malfunction on start up. Holden roadside assist and a tow to local dealer, up until this event I was really happy with car, Dealer has done a complete strip down of engine and is still requesting parts from HO, been nearly 2 weeks at dealer. This event has really made me question the longevity of this engine and the reliabilty, I am a light careful driver klms are a lot of long distance driving as I am a rep. I will keep everyone posted, however feel Holden really dont know how to foix this engine.
30,000 klm 07 Captiva Diesel LX update. It’s been a long while since my last post and there is a reason for this, the car is faultless. Fuel consumption has imporved slightly since my last post and now it will return low to mid 8’s on a trip. It does a great job around town (sydney) and my wife loves driving it.
I have had a Captiva CX Diesel through work for just on 12 months now. Couple of things, it was a lot better car than I thought it would be. Rides well, handles well and for a diesel goes really well. Was a bit disappointed at first with fuel economy but the trip computer is actually worse then what it really is. I average about 9 litres/100km and have had down to 8 and up to 11. What makes a big difference is which brand of fuel you use. I have a Caltex fuel card but occasionally put BP in it and I always get better mileage from the BP, about 1 – 2 litres/100kms better. I have done a lot of long trips as well as city driving. I’m based in SEQld but regularly go out west including trips of over 1100kms in a day and feel fine at the end of the days drive. It does have a bit of road/wind noise but I do also have roof bars. I use it for the family too and can fit wife and baby and toddler with all the stuff that goes with kids and still have room to spare. Radio reception is poor but cd player is fine. Haven’t done a lot off road but was surprised at it’s ability when I did having grown up with real 4wds. All in all I really like it and am considering buying one of my own. Will go for the diesel as not much more to buy and by the sound of it a lot better fuel economy. As I said for a diesel it goes really well and can sit on the speed limit effortlessly and is capable of speeds that would see you loose your license for a very long time. Little bit of turbo lag first thing when the engine is cold but once it’s warmed up it’s fine. To date I have done 45000kms, just had it serviced today and have only had it serviced and rotated the tyres which look like they have at least another 25000kms life in them. Have no complaints other then the radio. I agree the vision through the back window is a bit limited but side mirrors are good as are the parking sensors. A couple of times I’ve towed trailers and that has confused the sensors, they are supposed to cut out when you have a trailer hitched on, which they do but sometimes it takes a while for it to realize that you have unplugged the trailer and they don’t work for a bit. Usually stopping the engine and restarting does the trick. Nice car, looks good, goes well, rides well, lots of room, I’m 6″ 4′ and is good to drive.
Just had a 30,000kms service on a diesel Captiva sx, the dealership reckons i need a full set of tyres?????. I though i would get alot more kms out of a set of tyres.
Had anyone else had this trouble?