Renault has refreshed the Captur after five years in production. Sales in Europe start later this month.
The front end looks completely different and inspired by the recent Rafale. The headlights are now LED by default, the radiator grille is new and the front bumper sports vertical inserts alongside a large air intake. The biggest highlight inside is a multimedia system with Google Services and two displays at its disposal – 10.25 and 10.4 inches large. The center console no longer has any climate control knobs, and the trimming materials are new all around.
Renault promises us improved suspension settings and steering, as well as upgraded shock absorbers in top specs. The powertrains stay largely the same with the exception of diesel engines, which are no longer available. In its cheapest spec, the new Captur gets a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The output can be either 90 or 100 PS (89 or 99 hp; 66 or 74 kW).
The more expensive versions get a 1.3-liter turbo four-pot with a 48V starter-generator to help with acceleration. The mild-hybrid system can be tuned to 140 or 160 PS (138 or 158 hp; 103 or 118 kW) and supports DCT in addition to manual. In some countries, the car will also ship with a non-electrified four-pot rated at 155 PS (153 hp / 114 kW).
Rounding off the powertrain choices is the E-Tech Hybrid, which combines a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine with a small 1.2-kWh battery pack. It outputs 145 PS (143 hp / 107 kW). AWD is not an option, but the electronics on board support a mode called Mild Off-Road.
The old RS Line trim is no longer on sale, replaced with a new styling package called Esprit Alpine. It brings along new wheels, body décor and interior trim that forgoes natural leather for eco-friendly materials.