All-in-one SUV to Captur cutthroat crossover market

THE all-new Renault Captur crossover is the marque’s latest addition to its fresh and diverse model line-up, and is set to be a serious contender in South Africa’s very popular and highly competitive B-segment small utility vehicle (SUV) category.

While the beautifully practical Captur crossover has the attributes of a standard SUV, it combines the personality of a SUV and the spaciousness of an MPV with the dynamism of a hatch, so the new Renault Captur crossover is the ultimate all-in-one package. Competitively priced, the entry-level Expression 66kW turbo carries a price tag of just R219 900.

Renault Captur offers three derivatives, all petrol-powered: the flagship Dynamique EDC featuring Renault’s new generation 1.2 litre 88kW EDC turbo power plant and the Dynamique and Expression, both with the 66kW turbo engine.

These new generation turbo engines are a direct result of Renault’s renowned adaptation of Formula One technology and transfer to road cars.

The Captur offers a choice of bi-tone body colours (Dynamique models only) and 16 and 17-inch alloys rims as standard on Expression and Dynamique variants respectively. Stylish, curvaceous lines are complemented by the chrome-plated Renault diamond set into the imposing black grille, as well as the front LED lights.

The Captur’s interior is spacious, as is the boot area, which houses hidden, yet easy-to-access storage space. Another innovation is the shell-shaped seats which feature trendily designed, practical zip collection covers (on Dynamique models) that can be easily removed and washed. Leather seats are an option on the Dynamique 88kW EDC variant.

As a direct result of its extensive F1 expertise gained over the past 38 years, Renault is the most advanced brand globally in respect of engine downsizing, with no compromise on power and performance.

The launch of the flagship Captur Dynamique EDC with a dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission sees the introduction to South Africa of Renault’s 1.2 litre 88kW turbo engine, which delivers an excellent, fuel efficient drive in tandem with slick, smooth gear changes.

With maximum output of 88kW at 4 900rpm and a peak torque of 190Nm at 2 000rpm, the Dynamique EDC reaches a top speed of 192km/h. At 5.4 litres per 100km, fuel consumption is frugal, while CO² emissions are as low as 125g per km.

The Captur Expression and Dynamique five-speed manual derivatives are fitted with Renault’s new generation 66kW turbo petrol engine with overboost. Delivering a maximum output of 66kW at 5 250rpm and a peak torque of 135Nm at 2 500rpm, these two models attain a top speed of 171km/h. Fuel consumption figures are 4.9 litres per 100km and CO² emissions is 113g per km.

In addition to the front end LED daytime running lights, the two Dynamique models also feature cornering fog light activation. Side mirrors and door handles are body-coloured with all additional exterior finishes in chrome.

With chrome and gloss interior finishes, quality and innovation are abound throughout the cabin’s flexible and modular MPV-like layout. Eye-catching are the innovative shell-shaped seats, which are trendily designed. While a leather steering wheel is standard on the Dynamique derivatives, leather seats are also an option on the Dynamique EDC variant.

The maximum capacity of the boot totals 377 litres split by an innovative two-position boot floor with its cleverly hidden yet easy-to-access storage area. With the rear bench seat pushed to its forward most position, the overall capacity increases to 455 litres. With the rear seats folded down, the total maximum boot space measures a substantial 1 235 litres.

In the two Dynamique models, the boot floor is reversible, smooth on one side with an anti-slide surface on the other.

With smart technology at every turn, Captur boasts a host of fitments and features that exceed the standard in its market segment. The Captur crossover offers Bluetooth® connectivity, which enables safe, convenient and hands-free telephone and music streaming from external devices when on the go.

Renault’s MediaNav integrated on-board multimedia system with a seven-inch touchscreen is standard. Satellite navigation and Arkamys radio plus USB port are easily accessed via fingertip controls conveniently located alongside the steering column.

A hands-free key card, electric side mirrors and electric windows for front and rear plus automatic climate control with one touch, quick demist function plus air quality management system are all standard features. Rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain sensitive front wipers are also standard across the range. A tyre pressure sensor is standard on the Dynamique models.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) coupled with emergency brake assist (EBA) kicks in and automatically applies maximum brake pressure when an emergency braking situation is detected and is able to shorten braking distance by up to 9m.

Other safety features are:
• Electronic stability programme (ESP).
• Hill start assist (HSA).
• Front airbags.
• Head, chest and side airbags.
• Seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters (front seats).
• Anti-submarining front seats.
• Anti-whiplash head rests and force limiter function (rear side seats).
• Three Isofix three-point child seat anchor for front passenger and rear side seats.
The all-new Captur crossover comes standard with:
• Five-year or 150 000km mechanical warranty.
• Three-year or 45 000km service plan.
• Six-year anti-corrosion warranty.
• Services every 15 000km or one year intervals.

Recommended retail pricing:
• Renault Captur 66kW Expression – R219 900.
• Renault Captur 66kW Dynamique – R239 900.
• Renault Captur 88kW EDC Dynamique – R279 900.