With the launch of the second-generation Captur only two years ago, we asserted that this compact crossover, based on the Clio and manufactured in Spain, is now the only model in the current local range that captures the essence of the spirit of Renault.
Over a period of more than 65 years (yes, that’s how long Renault cars have been available here), we have become accustomed to the French carmaker’s unique qualities and flair, more recently exemplified by models like the Megane, the Scenic and the evergreen Clio.
However, over the past decade or two, the marque locally has transitioned from models conceived primarily for Europe to “world” models mostly built in India. Although the reasons for doing this make sense, an unintended consequence of this strategy was the loss of that quintessential “l’esprit Renault” in the Kwid, Triber, Kiger and even the Nissan X-Trail-based Koleos.
The sole exception is the Captur, now updated with a bold athletic design to complement Renault’s new brand identity with a redesigned grille, a chiselled and sculpted hood with squarer lines, enhanced lighting with full LED technology as standard, new front and rear bumpers and skid plates, and new 18” and 19” alloy wheel designs.
The interior has also been updated, featuring the OpenR Link multimedia system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and a new, bigger 10.4” centrally positioned vertical touchscreen. Besides the larger screen, one immediately notices the new interior upholstery made from recycled fabrics and bio-sourced materials, such as a grained cover material and hemp.
New Trim Levels
Available in five colours – Arctic White, Flame Red, Iron Blue, Oyster Grey, and the newly introduced Urban Grey – the Captur now also introduces three new trim levels: Techno (replacing the previous Zen), Iconic (in the place of Intens) and Esprit Alpine (superseding the RS Line).
The Techno trim features 17” alloy wheels with a matt black paint trim on the lower body and beltline and black front and rear skid plates. The mid-tier Iconic trim features new 18” Black Hole alloy wheels and high gloss black trim on the lower body and beltline.
The new range-topping, sporty Esprit Alpine trim features Ice Black logos, high gloss black window surrounds, 19” Elixir wheels, an aerodynamic splitter, and front and rear skid plates with Slate Grey matt paintwork. Inside, it is differentiated by the French national flag in the seat side piping, seatbelts with blue stitching, sporty aluminium-plated pedals, branded door sills and an ergonomic steering wheel.
As previously, the Captur range is powered by a four-cylinder, 1.3-litre petrol turbo engine delivering 113 kW and 270 Nm of torque, paired with a Dual-Clutch transmission (EDC), and with Multi-Sense (available from the Iconic trim level), four driving modes (Eco, Sport, Comfort and Perso) are available.
Only Esprit Alpine spec derivatives were available for the launch drive in Gauteng, and it was immediately clear there’s not much difference in terms of dynamics between the new models and their predecessors. As before, the Captur excelled on smooth surfaces, but on broken tar and undulated roads, its ride was less pliant and slightly on the harsh side.
The compact crossover feels sporty and solidly planted, handles well, and the upgraded interior exudes an aura of quality. However, the texture and feel of the seat fabrics felt somewhat strange at first. In short, the Captur retains its “voiture à vivre” (car for living) feel and rates as one of the best models in its class.
Last Word
The well-specced Captur’s biggest problem within this highly competitive segment is pricing, as there is a plethora of lower-priced rivals (Volkswagen T-Cross, Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Creta, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, and Haval Jolion), offering similar practicality and features. A pity, really, as the Captur in our view is still the best model within the Renault stable currently.
Report by FERDI DE VOS | Images © RENAULT SOUTH AFRICA
