What kind of transmission is in the Captiva?
The Captiva most commonly uses a manual or a conventional automatic transmission, with the exact type depending on year, engine and market. In general, there isn’t a single transmission spec that applies to all Captiva models.
The Captiva is a GM-era compact SUV sold under Chevrolet and other GM brands in multiple regions. Over its life it offered several engine options and corresponding transmission choices, so buyers typically encountered either a manual or an automatic gearbox depending on trim and geography.
Overview of transmission options
Here is a concise summary of the transmission types that have appeared on Captiva models across generations and markets.
- Six-speed automatic transmissions were the most common automatic option on many diesel and petrol variants.
- Five- or six-speed manual transmissions were available on various trims and engines.
- Some early or market-specific configurations used four-speed automatics or other variations, though these are less common in later models.
Overall, the Captiva’s transmissions fall into two broad categories: manual gearboxes and conventional automatons, with the six-speed automatic being the staple across many engines and markets.
Generation-by-generation transmission details
First generation (2006–2011)
The original Captiva offered multiple engine options in different regions, with both manual and automatic gearboxes available. Manual transmissions were typically five- or six-speed, while automatics available on certain engines were usually four- or six-speed units, depending on market and trim. In many markets, diesel variants leaned toward the automatic option, while some entry trims used manual gearboxes.
Second generation (2011–2018/19)
The second generation refined the transmission lineup, with six-speed automatic transmissions becoming more widely standard across diesel and petrol engines. A manual option remained available on several trims, though availability varied by market. In most regions, the six-speed automatic became the default pairing for the more common engines, while some locales still offered a manual choice on select models.
Market variations and buying tips
Because the Captiva’s transmission arrangements vary by year, market and engine, here are practical notes for prospective buyers or owners validating a specific vehicle.
- Check the exact transmission listed on the vehicle’s spec sheet or VIN-reported equipment, since options vary by country and model year.
- If you prefer an automatic, verify the gearbox type (six-speed automatics were standard in many markets) and review service history for any transmission-fluid changes or related repairs.
- For those considering a manual, confirm the gearbox is a properly synchronized six- or five-speed unit and inspect clutch operation and pedal feel.
- Be attentive to typical transmission issues such as delayed engagement, slipping, hard shifts, or unusual noises, and have a qualified technician diagnose any suspected problems.
In short, the Captiva offers both manual and automatic transmissions, with the six-speed automatic being the prevalent choice on many later models and markets, while manual variants remain available in certain trims and regions.
Summary
Across its generations, the Captiva’s transmission lineup centers on two main options: manual gearboxes and conventional automatics. The six-speed automatic is the most common automatic configuration, with manuals widely offered in various trims. Market and model-year differences mean exact specifications can vary, so always verify the specific transmission type for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Captiva?
Top 5 problems of your Captiva:
- Transmission slipping. Transmission slipping can cause erratic shifting or loss of power, often due to worn clutch plates or low transmission fluid.
- Engine stalling.
- Timing chain failure.
- AC not cooling.
- Electrical glitches.
Why did Chevy discontinue the Captiva?
The Chevy Captiva was discontinued primarily due to shifting market demands and strategic lineup changes by General Motors. In the U.S. market, the Captiva Sport was a fleet-only vehicle that was replaced by the newer and more competitive Chevrolet Equinox, allowing GM to focus on more profitable segments. Globally, production was phased out in favor of the Equinox, which was built on a newer platform, and to update the overall model range.
Reasons for discontinuation
- Strategic focus on the Chevy Equinox: Chevrolet phased out the Captiva to concentrate on the Equinox, which was more popular in the retail market. By focusing on the Equinox, Chevrolet could improve its residual values and better compete in the compact SUV segment.
- Fleet-only model in the U.S.: The Captiva Sport in the United States was exclusively a fleet vehicle, popular with rental companies. Its discontinuation in the U.S. was a specific decision to end its run in that market, not a global stop.
- Global model range updates: The discontinuation was also part of a broader, global strategy to update Chevrolet's lineup. As the Equinox was launched on a newer platform, it made sense to replace older models like the Captiva in various international markets, such as Australia, South Korea, and Uzbekistan.
- Older platform: The original Captiva platform was older, and the decision to move to the newer, more flexible D2XX platform for the Equinox was a key factor in the transition.
What kind of transmission is in the 2014 Chevy Captiva?
five-speed automatic transmission
The Captiva is powered by the Australian (Holden)-built 3.2-litre Alloytec V6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, featuring Active Select.
Does a Chevy Captiva have a CVT transmission?
And likewise it has a CVT so driving it is going to be smooth. But first let's check out the interior of the Captiva. Now the Captiva does look fresh and bang up to date on the outside.
