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- Renault has finally launched the Captur in South Africa.
- The line-up comprises one engine and two derivatives.
- Pricing for the Captur starts at R454 999.
Renault has launched an all-new Captur that is versatile, boasts intuitive technology, a comfortable cabin and an athletic SUV design throughout.
Remaining true to its DNA, the Captur represents a compelling SUV package with a distinctive style, excellent safety and smart technologies.
Inside and out, the updated design boasts striking design cues, such as signature front and rear LEDs, while the interior boasts a slicker design and trim levels.
Enhanced styling
Thanks to enhanced SUV styling, the Captur is notably more modern, with more athletic curves and a raised waist. SUV aesthetics have been boosted by styling components such as front and rear protection skid plates and protective moulding that runs along the entire length of the body and wheel arches.
A ribbed bonnet and additional chrome elements add a more modern overall appearance. Beneath the wider grille is a more expressive front bumper. The Captur has grown and is now higher and wider while boasting 174mm of ground clearance. At the rear, widened shoulders frame C-shaped rear lights.
Inside story
Given the increased exterior proportions, the interior is more spacious. Updated touch points include a slimmed down, more elegant steering wheel and piano-style buttons for major functions.
The smart cockpit utilises the latest Renault technology offering, including the prominent 9.3-inch multimedia screen. The slightly curved portrait tablet is angled towards the driver, improving the legibility of its screen. The Renault Easy Link multimedia system offers an all-connected and customised multimedia experience, onboard navigation and infotainment services.
A new interior feature is the floating centre console which has been elevated for improved driving position ergonomics and to make the gear lever easier to manoeuvre. The design also frees up storage space and the wireless charging system in a semi-hidden compartment below, which is always a good idea in South Africa. The passenger compartment now features modern fittings that improve its comfort, ergonomics and overall quality. Top-of-the-range materials, soft coverings for the dashboard and new seat architecture are present. Still, specific touchpoints, such as the glovebox latch, have a flimsy latch, detracting slightly from the overall premium feel.
A digitally configured screen has replaced the previously utilised analogue instrument cluster. Cruise control and an electronic park brake add to the convenience offered.
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The boot has 404 litres of space, ensuring a high level of versatility, and its volume can be adjusted by sliding the rear bench 16cm forward, expanding the load space to 536 litres. With the rear seats folded completely flat, an almost flat floor is created, providing a loading space that measures 1275 litres.
Renault's proprietary key card has been retained and allows for the unlocking, starting and locking of the vehicle without removing the key from your pocket.
Under the bonnet
A 1.3-litre turbocharged engine offers 113kW and 270Nm and is paired with a seven-speed automatic Efficiency Dual Clutch transmission providing good performance and outstanding fuel consumption of only 6,6 litres per 100km, a figure which we matched on the launch route without even trying. Overall performance is excellent, and the engine and transmission are well-matched. The driver also has the option of shifting gears via the paddle shifter located behind the steering wheel. Multi-sense mode allows for tailoring the driving experience via three modes labelled Eco, Normal and Sport.
Five-star safety
With a five-star safety rating, safety equipment is extensive and of the highest standard, including park distance control, rearview camera, lane departure warning, tyre pressure monitor, EBA and EBD, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition.
Passive safety includes: High-efficiency front airbags, head/chest side bags, seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, anti-submarining front seats, anti-whiplash headrests with force limiter function, Isofix child seat anchorson the front passenger and rear side seats.
Conclusion
Renault describes the Captur as a model that offers an SUV personality, MPV interior and practicality and the driving characteristics of a hatch, which is spot on.
In terms of what it offers and the driving experience, the Renault Captur makes a compelling argument in the segment, even though the pricing is a little on the expensive side. This places the Captur in the ballpark of competitors such as the Haval Jolion, Hyundai Venue and Volkswagen T-Cross.
The biggest issue is that this model has taken very long to reach South Africa due in part to global supply chain shortages following the pandemic. With Renault South Africa confirming that the model will be facelifted next year already, resale values of this model could be negatively affected by its short lifespan on the local market.
Model range and pricing
The Captur will be offered in Zen and Intens derivatives, both utilising the same drivetrain.
The selling price of the Captur includes a five-year or 150 000km warranty and a three-year or 45 000km service plan.
Renault Captur 1.3-litre Turbo EDC Zen R454 999
Renault Captur 1.3-litre Turbo EDC Intens R499 999
