SAIC-GM-Wuling venture will build the new Chevrolet Captiva in Thailand

THE joint venture SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) will start building this month the new-generation Chevrolet Captiva in Thailand. The model is set to go on sale in the country before the end of the year.

The Captiva is being positioned as one of the best-value SUVs on the market as it mixes space, style and smart technology, according to GM.

It added the Captiva will offer one of the roomiest interiors in the market, and will be available in five- and seven-seat configurations. The model will be fitted with a panoramic sunroof and integrated LED headlights, among other items.

GM said the model will be produced using GM’s globally implemented Built-In-Quality (BIQ) principle and processes at every stage of manufacturing to help assure the new Captiva will be durable and reliable.

The carmaker said SGMW’s design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities will “make it possible for Chevrolet to bring several new models to Thailand” and other markets in future.

“The SGMW joint venture enables deep product, technology and manufacturing sharing. Partnering with SGMW provides Chevrolet in Thailand and many other markets with a growing portfolio of world-class vehicles leveraging GM’s global scale and presence,” said Hector Villarreal, president of GM Southeast Asia.

“As the first vehicle born from this collaboration, the all-new Captiva has the honor of jump-starting a new era for Chevrolet in Thailand,” said Villarreal.

SGMW implements GM’s BIQ principle on all Chevrolet vehicles at its manufacturing facilities.   

GM said the SGMW venture will enable the Captiva’s return to several global markets.

“With Captiva, we will build on the momentum established by Trailblazer and Colorado and continue to grow Chevrolet in Thailand,” said Sean Poppitt, director of marketing and communications at GM Southeast Asia.