Introduced in 2015 as the “bumped-up” version of the popular Renault Clio, the first
Captur compact crossover offered similarly comfortable, versatile and well-appointed packaging as the hatchback on which it was based yet, crucially for this then-still burgeoning segment, a raised ride height and modified exterior styling compared with the Clio that lent it a more pronounced, purposeful stance. Also important for this “
mini-SUV” category of vehicles was an elevated driving position.
Affected by several factors including the global shortage of semiconductors and shipping delays, the second-generation
Captur that finally launched in South Africa in early 2023 is once more based on the current Clio hatchback. Assembled in Spain, each of the vehicles in this family introduces Renault’s refocused thinking on design, choice of materials and, indeed, build quality. This is as the brand seeks to complement its ever-popular portfolio of India-sourced products – including Kwid and Kiger – with its still significant range of Europe-built offerings.
Sharing its modern platform with the Clio, the new
Captur is 100 mm longer, nose to tail, compared with the previous generation crossover. This includes a 33 mm stretch in wheelbase length that frees up more interior space than before, with a larger luggage compartment that now measures an impressive 404 litres. Standard throughout the new range is a sliding second-row bench that can be adjusted in a 60:40 split to find an optimal arrangement between rear passenger legroom and packing space. With the rear seat backrest folding, Renault claims 1 275 litres worth of utility space.
Available in either Zen or range-topping Intens specification, the modern
Captur is sold exclusively with 17-inch wheels, steel items on the entry-level model and a distinct-looking alloy example on the Intens derivative. Also reserved for this flagship model is the choice of a two-tone exterior paint finish.
Introduced with the current Clio is Renault’s newest cabin design. This includes impressively comfortable, cloth-covered seating and an easy-to-operate infotainment setup with smartphone-mirroring technology. While Zen models feature a 7.0-inch touchscreen display, Intens specification upgrades this to a 9.3-inch, portrait-oriented item. The latter is complemented by a crisp digital instrument cluster position ahead of a leather-covered (and heated) multifunction steering wheel, as well as configurable interior ambient lighting.
For the time being, the
Captur is offered exclusively with a 1.3-litre turbopetrol motor that is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch (automatic) transmission. Powering the front wheels, this impressively refined drivetrain offers 113 kW and 270 N.m of torque, with average fuel consumption listed at just 6.6 L/100 km.
Renault will look to introduce a new hybrid powertrain once the updated
Captur arrives in South Africa towards the end of 2024.
Complemented by an established local network that has easy access to a million Rands worth of replacement parts for all its vehicles,
Renault South Africa sells its Captur with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 service plan.
Renault Captur 1.3 EDC Zen - R459 999
Renault Captur 1.3 EDC Intens - R499 999
