The brand new Renault Captur is not all about climbing into the ring with rivals such as Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008 or Ford EcoSport, but all about ultimate driving pleasure.
The Captur, through its five levels – Expression, Expression+, Dynamique Media Nav, Dynamique S Media Nav and upmarket Signature – is all about fighting its own battles in an already congested crossover market.
All the five versions come with alloy wheels, cruise control and electric windows. Expression models add desirable extras such as climate control, while Dynamique versions are fitted with a TomTom touchscreen sat-nav system and Signature cars get luxuries such as leather, a parking camera and a high-end multimedia system.
Renault has opted to slot two different turbo engines in the Captur, the entry models are equipped with the same 0.9-Litre turbo from the Clio. This top model makes use of a 1.2-Litre turbo with power claimed at 88 kW and torque at 190 Nm.
It’s ample for a hatch/crossover and whether you just want to potter along in traffic or race the traffic to get to work on time the engine is more than capable of coping. The automated dual-clutch gearbox used in tandem with the engine isn’t as good though, it often finds itself confused as to what gear it wants to be in. Areas where yielding occurs like traffic circles or slip-ways can be annoying and jolty as the gearbox hunts around for a gear. In straight line acceleration the ‘box is fine and when knocked into manual mode shifts quickly.
Get ready for a lively response, surprisingly moderate fuel consumption, and of course excellent safety – all packaged in a seriously agile, attractive and elegant SUV.
Here are a few exterior features you will love: daytime running lights (LED), cornering fog lights, chrome exterior finishes and 17” black diamond-cut alloy wheel rims. Driving features such as eco mode, and card unlocking system with hands-free function come in very handy.
Safety is sorted with ABS with EBD, EBA, ESC and much more. Visibility and comfort features include auto door locking, one-touch driver window with anti-trapping, and heated rear screen. Smart technologies and multimedia to look forward to include integrated satellite navigation, 4-speaker radio/CD player, Bluetooth®, USB, air quality regulator, and auto headlights.
Peace of mind comes in the form of a 5 Year / 150 000 KM warranty, 3 Year / 45 000 KM service plan (intervals: 15 000 KM) and 6 year corrosion warranty.
Prices
Captur 66kW Turbo Expression 5dr R219 900
Captur 66kW Turbo Dynamique 5dr R239 900
Captur 88kW Turbo EDC Dynamique 5dr R279 900
