Holden Captiva 5 2012 Review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

Holden's no frills, entry level off road wagon, with a four cylinder petrol engine, manual transmission, two-wheel drive and seating for five occupants as the name suggests.

How much?

$27,990 driveaway. That buys you plenty of wagon. At the moment it also comes with a sunroof and 18 inch alloys at no extra cost (seven-seater is another $6000).

What are competitors?

Plenty of them but Captiva is targeted primarily at the Ford Territory. Other contenders for around the same money include Great Wall's X200 ($1000 less and for diesel), plus the Hyundai iX35 and Kia Sportage clones.

What's under the bonnet?

2.4-litre four cylinder petrol engine, with 123kW of power and 230Nm of torque. It's hooked up to a six-speed manual or optional six-speed auto, with drive to the front wheels.

How does it go?

Okay. Surprisingly enthusiastic. The gearing feels well matched to the engine and it remains responsive to the throttle even in fifth and sixth gears. But that's with just one person aboard. Stick in another four bods and it could be a completely different story.

Is it economical?

Rated at 8.8 litres/100km, we were getting 9.8 after about 300 easy kilometres. Has a 65-litre tank and takes standard unleaded. Still had 450km to go according to the trip computer. Will also take E85 blend ethanol if you can find it.

Is it green?

Gets 3.5 stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide. Better than the diesel or larger six cylinder petrol models. Prius sets the pace with 5 out of 5.

Is it safe?

Yep. Full five stars, with six airbags and a full range of safety systems including electronic stability control, roll over protection and anti-lock brakes.

Is it comfortable?

Feels its price. Plenty of hard plastic. Let's just say it's not uncomfortable. The ergonomics could do with some work though. Try working out how to use cruise control in the dark.

What's it like to drive?

Nothing special. Gear change awkward at times. Does the job and that is about all. Hill holder is handy for hill starts. Holds the car for a few seconds while you get it into gear and move off (bit hard to do a hill start with an electric brake).

Is it value for money?

Yes and no. Tows up to 1500kg. Can't believe it doesn't come with Bluetooth (at least we couldn't find any). It's almost a given these days and standard across the Commodore range (nothing like consistency). Capped price serving not to be sneezed at ($245 a visit).

Would we buy one?

If money was a consideration yes. If it was not then there are plenty of other choices. The diesel Captiva is a much better drive as is the Territory (but Territory is $40K).

Holden Captiva 5 

Price: from $27,990
Warranty: 3 years, 100,000km
Weight: 1640 kg
Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder
Transmission: 6-speed, manual, front wheel drive
Thirst: 8.8l/100Km, 209 CO2 emissions