Renault has just pulled the wraps off the updated version of its second-generation Captur, and there’s plenty to get excited about. Set to arrive in South Africa in the first half of 2025, this compact crossover brings a host of stylish updates and technological advancements.
Let’s dive into the details of this refresh of the beloved Renault Captur.
New Noticeable Front-End Look
The most striking changes to the Captur is at the front, where Renault has implemented a series of design updates that significantly elevate the vehicle’s appearance.
A new horizontal radiator grille showcases Renault’s updated ‘Nouvel’R’ logo. Slim, elegant headlamps flank this grille, with vertical half-diamond LED daytime running lights, that bear a resemblance to those on the Clio. This new look aligns seamlessly with Renault’s strategy to position the Renault Captur as a more premium offering in the competitive compact crossover market.
Noteworthy Customisations And Features
The Captur‘s refreshed design extends to its wheels, with newly designed alloy options available across the range. Depending on the chosen trim level – be it Evolution, Techno, or the range-topping Esprit Alpine – the Captur comes with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches in diameter.
For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the Esprit Alpine variant, which replaces the previous RS Line, offers a host of distinctive features. This top-tier trim stands out with its ice-black logos and gloss black window surrounds, creating a sleek, cohesive look. An aerodynamic front splitter adds a touch of performance-inspired design, while front and rear skid plates finished in a slate grey matte complete the rugged yet refined appearance.
The back end of the new Captur features new transparent tail light clusters that create an eye-catching 3D effect, adding depth and visual interest to the rearview.
Customisation remains a key selling point, with six body colours available: pearl white, oyster grey, starry black, gunmetal grey, iron blue, and flame red. An optional two-tone colour scheme allows for contrasting roof and door mirror colours in highland grey, starry black, or perle beige.
Interior Captur Upgrades
The interior of the refreshed Captur has received a substantial technological upgrade, bringing it firmly into the modern era. At the heart of this transformation is the new OpenR Link multimedia system, which features a large 10.4-inch vertical touchscreen in all but the base models. This system runs on the Android Automotive 12 operating system, seamlessly integrating Google services for enhanced functionality.
For smartphone users, the system offers wireless compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring easy connectivity on the move. The driver’s experience is further enhanced by a digital instrument cluster measuring up to 10.25 inches. This customisable display can show a variety of information, including navigation data, providing a truly modern driving interface.
Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the optional Harman Kardon hi-fi system, which boasts nine speakers, including a subwoofer mounted in the boot for superior sound quality. Practical additions include two front USB-C ports, catering to the latest charging standards.
In line with current sustainability trends, the seats are now upholstered in recycled fabrics, with leather no longer offered as an option. The cabin ambience can be personalised with an ambient lighting system offering 48 different colour choices. Adding a touch of artistry to the driving experience, Renault has introduced two new welcome sound sequences composed by renowned artist Jean-Michel Jarre, creating a unique auditory signature for the vehicle.
Powertrain Options
At the entry level, there’s a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo engine on the Captur. This compact powerplant delivers 67kW of power and 160Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of efficiency and urban agility.
Moving up the range, Renault offers a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo engine with 48V mild hybridisation. This more potent option produces 104kW and 260Nm, also mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. For those desiring more performance or the convenience of an automatic, there’s a higher-output version of this engine available. It generates 119kW and 270Nm, coupled with a seven-speed EDC automatic transmission.
At the top of the lineup sits the flagship 1.6 E-Tech full hybrid powertrain. This sophisticated system combines two electric motors with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, resulting in a total system output of 108kW and 250Nm. The E-Tech hybrid utilises a cutting-edge automatic dog-clutch gearbox and is capable of electric-only driving for short distances. Perhaps most impressively, it boasts a remarkably low fuel consumption figure of just 4.7L/100km on the combined cycle, making it an excellent choice for the environmentally conscious driver seeking optimal efficiency.
South African Arrival And Expectations
Renault South Africa has confirmed that the facelifted Captur will reach our shores in the first half of 2025. While local pricing and specifications are yet to be announced, we can expect a competitive offering that builds on the current model’s strengths.
The refreshed Renault Captur promises to deliver a more premium experience, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains in a stylish compact crossover package. As we await its arrival, the new Captur looks set to make a significant impact in the highly competitive South African crossover market.
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