Car Statistics: Chevrolet - Captiva Series 06 (3 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

The Captiva was always a good-looking SUV and the latest styling changes keep it sharp, though some may find the gold Chevrolet bow-tie badge on its prow a little tacky.

Handling (3 stars)

The original Captiva could feel a bit nautical when shown a succession of bends. This revised version is much tidier, though you wouldn't call it sporty, run-wide understeer setting in if you push it hard. But at everyday speeds, it's capable enough.

Comfort (3 stars)

The pay-off for tidier handling is a firmer ride. It rarely turns too unyielding, but Britain's more battered roads will challenge it. The new diesels are far quieter, while the effort to suppress road and wind noise has paid off, the Captiva proving pretty relaxing at speed.

Quality (3 stars)

This feels like a robust vehicle - it's built to suit some tough markets - and the revisions to its interior lend it a slightly classier aura than before, but it certainly isn't as well-finished as a VW, a Ford or indeed, some of the latest models from sister brand Vauxhall.

Performance (3 stars)

All Captivas hit 62mph inside of 10 seconds, and if a 2,000rpm torque peak leaves a small pulling power shortfall at very low revs, for the most part it accelerates convincingly. The automatic makes for quite a restful drive, especially as the manual gearchange isn't the easiest to handle.

Roominess (4 stars)

Room up front is generous, it's decent in the middle row and just adequate for short-tripping kids in the back row. The boot is small with all three rows up, slightly below average with two rows and good as a two -seater. Oddments storage is excellent.

Costs (3 stars)

Depreciation could be hefty here, especially on the pricier models. But good fuel economy and excellent CO2 numbers promise lower fuel and tax bills than some rivals will present you with.

Value (2 stars)

The entry-level two-wheel drive LS is quite attractively priced, but a big jump to the next model up, four-wheel drive and seven seats or not, makes the Captiva a far less keenly priced machine than it should be.

Stereo (3 stars)

Some the controls look a little dated but the sat nav presents pleasingly clear and attractive graphics, though it's not the easiest to programme. The stereo sounds fine.