Holden Captiva Series II Announced - model Review

Both vehicles are set for release this month.

Captiva buyers have the choice of a turbo-diesel powerplant for the first time, while the Captiva 7 range offers three options, including a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol variant, 2.2-litre turbo diesel and the Aussie-built 3.0-litre SIDI V6 as found in the Commodore. All are matched to 6-speed transmissions.

Captiva II has received a styling upgrade and improved convenience features; Holden claim quieter cabins, improved ride and handling, more powerful engines and lower fuel consumption.

Captiva's safety features have also been enhanced with the introduction of six airbags as standard on all models, an electric park brake and Hill Start Assist technology to prevent 'roll-away' on inclines.

The Captiva 7 range now includes a two-wheel drive model powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. It delivers fuel economy of 9.1L/100km - the most fuel efficient petrol seven seater in its class - while producing 123kW of power and 230Nm of torque. The new, perky 2.2-litre turbo diesel SX model delivers fuel economy of 8.1L/100km, 135kW of power and 400Nm of torque - a 25 percent increase on its predecessor.

All-wheel drive Captiva 7 CX and LX models offer a choice of the 2.2-litre turbo diesel or 3.0-litre SIDI V6 powerplants. The 3.0-litre V6 produces 190kW of power and delivers fuel economy of 11.3L/100km.

Buyers of the Holden Captiva 5 compact SUV may now choose between an AWD 2.2-litre turbo diesel model and a 2WD 2.4-litre four cylinder petrol model which offers 19 percent more power than the engine it replaces. There are 7 Captiva models of which 6 are AWD models. The best news is that Holden say all models are offered at $2000 less than comparable outgoing models.