Renault has launched a new crossover to the South African market and we have the specs and pricing for you.

The Renault Captur is a Clio-based crossover that takes on the competitive B-segment SUV category. Think Ford EcoSport… The Renault Captur is an interesting vehicle in that it has the same traits as an SUV, the practicality of an MPV, while still retaining the easy to drive dynamics of a hatchback.

At this stage, we’re getting two engines and two gearboxes. The range starts off with the 66kW Expression manual, then there’s a 66kW Dynamique manual and finally the 88kW EDC Dynamique.Captur offers a choice of bi-tone body colours for the Dynamique models and16-inch and 17-inch alloys as standard on Expression and

Dynamique variants respectively.

The Renault Captur launches in South Africa on the back of a successful European sales campaign. After being internationally launched at the 2013 Geneva Show, the total sales for that year reached 94 000 units, with 161 000 units being sold in 2014.

Engines and Practicality

The launch of the Renault Captur coincides with the introduction of an all-new engine to South Africa. This motor is a 1.2-litre turbo motor with 88kW and 190Nm mated to a dual-clutch 6-speed gearbox. This engine prides itself on being super efficient and Renault claims 5.4-litres/100km for the combined cycle. The other two models are powered by the same engine that we’ve all come to know and enjoy in the Clio. This is the 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo with 66kW and 135Nm, and that has a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.9-litres/100km.

Despite the Renault Captur being marketed as a city crossover, it’s still able to venture off the tarmac thanks to a ground clearance of 170mm and the elevateddriving position makes life a little easier. It appears to be very practical too with the rear bench being able to move forward or backward by up to 16cm. The seats can also be folded flat. The boot capacity is initially 377 litres, but with the two-position boot floor dropped down, this expands to 455 litres. Fold those seats flat and you have access to 1 235 litres of cargo space.

Specification and Safety

The Renault Captur comes well equipped with all the latest technology. There’s Bluetooth connectivity, satnav, Arkamys radio, USB port, satellite radio controls, cruise control and there’s the option of having leather as well as heated seats. Other features include hands-free key card, electric side mirrors and electric windows (front and rear) plusautomatic climate control,while rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rainsensitive front wipers are standard across the range. A tyre pressure sensor is standard onDynamique models.

In terms of safety, you’re looking at a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating across the range. The Captur comes with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) coupled with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). ESP and Hill Start Assist ensure you don’t roll back on an incline. There arealso front airbags, head/chest side bags,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 3-pointchild seat anchor seat attachments are fitted to the front passenger and rear side seats.

Renault Captur Price in South Africa

The all-new Captur crossover comesstandard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty; a 3-year/45 000km service plan anda 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km/1 year intervals.

– Renault Captur 66kW Expression R219 900

– Renault Captur 66kW Dynamique R239 900

– Renault Captur 88kW EDC Dynamique R279 900