2011 Chevrolet Captiva gets a Fresh Face and New Engines

Joining the new Orlando MPV, Cruze hatchback and the next generation of the Aveo subcomapct at Chevrolet's stand at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show, will be the refreshed European market Captiva. The facelifted version of Chevy's seven seater SUV, which was first introduced in 2006, comes with a new front end design, interior enhancements, and new engines and transmissions. The styling updates bring the Captiva more in line with Chevy's latest creations such as the Cruze and the new Aveo, though we're 99 percent certain that many will see some Mitsubishi Outlander styling DNA in that redesigned front end.

Along with the completely new snout, the 2011 Captiva also gets integrated LED turn signals on the outside rearview mirrors, revised side air-vents, new exterior color palette and fresh alloy wheel designs.

We don't have photos of the interior yet, but Chevrolet says the cabin has been upgraded with new finishes and textures including all-new seat fabrics, an ice-blue back lighting and an improved audio system that includes Aux-in, USB-port and Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, a new electric park brake is said to open up space for further storage in the center console, including two 1-liter cup holders.

There are plenty of changes under the hood with the introduction of four new engines that will come standard with a new manual or automatic six-speed transmission.

The new lineup comprises of a 2.2 liter common rail turbo-charged diesel unit available with either 163HP or 184HP outputs, and two gasoline engines, a 171HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 258HO 3.0-liter V6 with direct injection and variable valve timing.

Both, the 2.2 liter turbo-diesels as well as the 2.4 liter gasoline engine will be offered in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.

Chevrolet said it has also re-tuned the suspension to further enhance vehicle dynamics, improving cornering, roll characteristics and ride feel.

The launch of the refreshed Chevrolet Captiva SUV in Europe is scheduled for spring 2011.