Hello Frenchie!

Ten years after the Renault Captur was first introduced to the world, the highly anticipated updated version has been launched in South Africa. LIANA REINERSreveals al that is good about the newcomer.

One-and-a-half million. That’s how many units of Renault’s popular Captur have been sold in 90 countries since 2013. The second generation made its début in 2017 and it has taken six long years for the latest iteration to be introduced locally. Let me tell you, though, it was certainly worth the wait.

The new Captur is so much more than a nipped-and-tucked version of its predecessor. It has been reimagined, reinvented and reinvigorated to the point where it is an easy-to-drive, multifunctional and multi-faceted crossover that offers a great balance between innovation and practicality.

We drove it in KwaZulu-Natal and it was immediately clear that this is a compelling crossover SUV package for buyers who appreciate distinctive styling, great safety credentials and plenty of tech. Also counting in its favour are a comfortable cabin and good performance.

Spirited performance

Under the bonnet of the new Captur lurks Renault’s Formula 1 insired 1.3-litre turbo powerplant. It offers good low-down torque of 270Nm, providing better performance, and claimed fuel consumption of around 6.6 litres/100km. The engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic Efficiency Dual Clutch (EDC) gearbox, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive. The gear change paddles are located behind the steering wheel, while the MULTI-SENSE Sport mode provides a greater feeling of sportiness and enjoyment at the wheel.

Designed with plenty of French flair

The new Renault Captur is a thoroughly modern vehicle as far as looks are concerned. Unique styling components include front and rear protection skid plates and the protective moulding that runs the entire length of the lower body and the wheel arches. Beneath the wider grille, the expressive front bumper reinforces its dynamism, enhanced by its ground clearance of 174mm. Add to this 17-inch wheels and the unique bi-tone colour combinations on the Intens model and the result is an imposing SUV look.

Interior comfort guaranteed

The floating centre console is a key component of the Captur’s cabin. Elevated for improved driving position ergonomics and to make the gear lever easier to manoeuvre, it gives the passenger compartment a more streamlined look, while freeing up space for storage and for the location of a smartphone wireless charging system.

Modern and stylish fittings abound and are aimed at improving ergonomics and comfort. High-quality materials, soft coverings for the dashboard and new seat architecture all contribute to the feeling of luxury.

Safe as houses

Safety has always been Renault’s ‘thing’ and the new Captur is no different. It was awarded five stars by Euro NCAP and boasts six airbags, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Anti-Locking Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Hill Start Assist (HSA). It also offers front and rear park assist, lane departure warning, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition.

It goes without saying that seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters (front seats), anti-submarining front seats, anti-whiplash head rests, force limiter function (rear side seats) and ISOFIX 3-point child seat anchor seat attachments are also part of the standard package.

Practicality comes standard

Thanks to boot space of 404 litres, the new Captur is a versatile and practical vehicle. Slide the rear bench seat forward (by as much as 16cm) and you gain an additional 536 litres or take full advantage of the possible 1 275 litres available by folding the rear seats down. There is also up to 27 litres of interior storage… plenty of nooks and crannies to store sunglasses, keys and the like.

Model line-up & pricing

• Renault Captur 1.3L Turbo EDC Zen: R454 999

• Renault Captur 1.3L Turbo EDC Intens: R499 999

*Captur models come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45000km service plan, and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Servicing is required every 12 months or 15 000km, whichever comes first.

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