THERE ARE NO direct rivals for the top-end Captiva softroader if you rank as starting points a high output V6 petrol motor, six-speed auto gearbox, seating for seven (at a pinch) and on-demand four-wheel drive system.  Add the fact it is of monocoque or unibody construction, and it is separated even further from those more serious ladder-frame, transfer-case enabled options such as the Fortuner and Pajero sport. Your best bet on price and ability considerations would be Kia’s desirable Sorento, which is not offered with the 4WD option if you also want seven seats and a petrol engine. Perhaps Hyundai’s Santa Fe will up the ante when the revised model is announced for SA? Lower-end Captivas with their 2.4-litre petrol engines can shout seven seats and great value against a host of all-comers from Nissan’s X-Trail to Mazda’s CX-7; but head upscale with the LTZ’s levels of kit and the price-value link is more tenuous. What then, are the range-topper’s deal clinchers?

IMAGE GALLERY HERE

Exterior

A recent revision has left the rather pleasing bulbous shape with its bold upwardly-rising shoulder line, prominent arches and clamshell bonnet untouched. Instead look out for the new side vents and a grille that reminds of  a Big Mac burger gift-wrapped by Chevrolet. The front end is far bolder than before, the foglamps are neatly contained by a sweep of black plastic underliner, polycarbonate lenses now protect the headlamps and, in addition to roof rails, side steps are now part of the trail-blazing image. The LTZ tops it all with attractive 19-inch alloys riding on 235/50 profile rubber. A key feature is the strongly ribbed A-pillar, less successful is the high rear end. But for a 4.7m long vehicle, it contrives to look remarkably compact.

IS IT REALLY A 7 SEATER? SEE THE VIDEO HERE

Interior

As an exercise in packaging, the Captiva passes the Tardis test with colours. It’s huge inside. That third row of seats pulls up easily from a flat boot floor (covering a full-size spare), and two small people can fit there but precious little luggage in the 103 litres that’s left behind them. Lose the junior soccer team’s full backs and bootspace is a generous 477 litres, flopping the split second row down takes space to 942 litres and if you want to carry ladders and the like, the front passenger seat folds forward as well. Neat.