Chevrolet Captiva set to make a PH comeback?
It looks like a once popular nameplate in the local automotive market is set to make a comeback. Chevrolet Philippines, under the distributorship of Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), announced that it will be launching a new seven-seater crossover MPV. The accompanying teaser image shows what is definitely the current generation Chevrolet Captiva.
At one point, the Chevrolet Captiva was one of the American automaker’s most popular offerings in the country until it was eventually discontinued less than a decade ago. This new second generation is based on the Baojun 530 compact crossover which is developed and produced by the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture in China.
Not much information was given by Chevrolet Philippines but looking at what other markets have, we can see that the new Captiva wears SUV-like styling with an MPV silhouette, reminding us of the Honda BR-V. The front fascia features split headlights and a large grille while the rear gets wraparound taillights and a bumper with faux exhaust tips.
Inside, the Captiva gets a rather simple dashboard design. In the center is a 10.4-inch tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system, while other features include a digital instrument cluster with a small TFT display in the center and a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel.
Chevrolet Philippines did confirm some features for the Philippine market. These include a panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and steering wheel-mounted controls. Also as mentioned, it will have seating for seven (including the driver).
Under the hood, the Chevrolet Captiva could be powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged Inline 4-cylinder DOHC gasoline engine that produces 148 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, mated to a CVT.
If we’re correct, the all-new Chevrolet Captiva should make its Philippine launch this coming October 18, 2024. Whether it’s marketed as an MPV (like their press release says) or as an SUV, do you think this model can regain the popularity it once had?
