We often discuss exciting car launches overseas, but then have to end with a disclaimer that we do not yet know if and when these models will be sold here. But it seems when the news finally arrives, it comes in droves. 2021 will be a massive year for Renault South Africa.
We are getting the new Renault Clio in the autumn, while the new Captur and just launched Kiger will arrive in the second half of the year. The Clio and Captur are based on the CMF-B platform, while the Kiger sits on the CMF-A+. In addition, in February we should get the new ATM (automated manual transmission) version of the Renault Triber manual launched last year.
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio was launched in 1990, looking very much like the venerable Renault 5 it replaced. The next two generations were rounder, friendly-looking little cars. The 2012 fourth-generation introduced the more aggressive pocket racer aesthetic so popular here.
The fifth-gen is a logical extension of the Clio it replaces, but with creases in the bonnet like the new Megané, wraparound daytime running lights, a more assertive grille and prominent air scoops on either side of said grille. Although the Clio is 14mm shorter than the previous one, it has more space inside and boasts a larger boot. The ride drops by 30mm and the top trim boasts 17-inch wheels.
We’ll see which engine models we get, but in Europe, it offers both a naturally aspirated and a turbo 1-litre three-cylinder, a 1.3-litre turbo-four, and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel four.
Renault Captur
Like the Clio, the new Captur is built on the CMF-B platform and offers the same engine options as the Clio in Europe, with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch. There is also a plug-in hybrid planned for some markets.
The new Captur is longer than the previous model, adding 110mm to give a full length of 4228mm. The luggage space has been increased by 81L to 536L with the backseat rest dropped flat. The Captur offers the same ‘SmartCockpit’ found in the Clio, all screens and bells and whistles. The interior is noticeably sophisticated, with better seats in front and more legroom in the back.
The front of the Captur also carries the new Renault look in terms of running lights, bigger grille and prominent scoops.
Renault Kiger
The sub-compact Renault Kiger has just been launched in India, where it will be manufactured for the international market. At under 4m long, it is the smallest Renault SUV in the range, sitting squarely in the highly-popular, more affordable B Crossover field. There has been much speculation around the exact spec of the launch model, but this will be available shortly. Be the first to know by signing up to our .
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The launch of a new generation car is often preceded by special offers or financing on the existing models, so keep an eye on the Renault Clio and Renault Captur currently on the showroom floors if you are looking for a deal. When it happens, it will happen fast.