Captur expands the galaxy of compact SUVs

What I like most is the fact that it offers products for high-street buyers as well as those unassuming buyers with a practical approach to everything they do or buy. I probably qualify as one of the latter.
Be that as it may – quality on all levels is still of primary concern.

Its beauty is of galactic proportions
I have just driven the new Renault Captur Dynamic and must say that it represents one of, if not, the most beautiful offerings in the growing, and becoming more popular by the day, small SUV/compact crossover market. Although it has easy-to-identify similarities with its stable sibling, the Clio, the Captur is much bolder, masculine and without sharp edges, corners and the rest presenting a vehicle with clean soft design features highlighted by chrome bits and bobs on precisely the right places and just enough to act as highlighters of an already striking design.
The high ground clearance (170mm) and 17” wheels make the Captur the ideal non- 4×4 city warrior. The front end and side-on view offer the most striking elements of the Captur – broad shoulder line and wheel arches – dominant front bumper with bold air dam and fog lights and then the slightly softer bonnet. Choose the colour of the roof – either black or cream – and start the individualisation process – yes, you have options! The rear end is much more sedate – not boring though – and strong with short overhangs – nice, very nice. The overall design is such that there is no need for any after market frills and add-ons – its presentation is just awesomely perfect and will most certainly spike Renault sales!

Interior – a perfect compliment
Yes – I’ll call it reserved luxury – elegant and of good quality with the seats being exceptionally supportive and comfortable and with zip-collection covers easily removable and washable. You do have the option of leather in the Dynamic model.
The layout is ergonomical – somewhat reserved even and offering a 7” touch screen on-board multimedia system with satellite navigation and there is Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports and the rest, cruise control, ECO mode which optimise fuel consumption by as much as 10%, automatic headlights and rain-sensitive wipers. There is more but the Renault salesperson can present you with all the features in detail.
My only gripe on the Captur is the position of the adjusting knob for the front- seat backs results in jammed fingers – so be warned – it’s really awkward. The rear bench can be moved forward and folded flat which will add 455 litres of space for bigger loads. The luggage space, as seen when opening the tailgate, is 377 litres. Split by a two-position boot floor – so you can hide stuff away from those ever ready smash and grabbers.

Vroom-vroom
F1 technology – a 1.2-litre producing 88kW and 190Nm with a fuel index of 5.4l/100km – mine registered a 7,2L/100km. This engine, which is exceptionally quiet – even under duress, is linked to a super smooth-changing six-speed automatic gearbox.
Most impressive though in terms of performance is the suspension. It feels like one is driving on a cushion or air – extremely comfortable on all roads surfaces and very stable and confident during cornering.

Conclusion
Renault – the Captur is a winner and the competition out there will take notice. And, that five-year/150 000km warranty is not to be snuffed at either. For potential buyers – just do it!

Photos: www. quickpic.co.za