Renault Captur Review: Hybrid Power And 536L Boot

The Renault Captur delivers a compelling blend of style, efficiency, and practicality in the bustling small SUV market. With pricing starting around £22,260 and topping out at £29,195, it undercuts many rivals while packing hybrid tech and customizable options that appeal to modern drivers.

Design and Exterior Appeal

The Captur’s exterior strikes a balance between urban chic and rugged crossover vibes. Its elongated body, now 110mm longer and 20mm wider than earlier models, gives it a more assertive stance on the road. Standard LED headlamps, borrowed from the Clio lineup, enhance visibility and add a premium touch from the base trim upward.

Customization is a highlight, with numerous combinations for body colors, roof finishes, and alloy wheels. This personalization allows owners to craft a unique look without venturing into higher price brackets. The design evolution positions it firmly as a crossover, distinct from boxier competitors.

Interior Comfort and Space

Step inside, and the Captur feels more upscale than its price suggests. Softer materials and a redesigned center console create a plush environment. The floating infotainment setup, enabled by a shift-by-wire gear lever, frees up storage space below, adding practicality.

Rear seating flexibility shines with a sliding bench, maximizing legroom or cargo space as needed. Boot capacity reaches 536 liters with seats forward, rivaling larger models like the BMW X3 in maximum configuration. The split-level floor aids loading, making it family-friendly.

• Key interior features: Customizable 10-inch driver display showing nav, economy, and climate data.
• Plush upholstery and soft-touch surfaces for premium feel.
• Ample storage cubbies, including under-console space.
• Sliding rear seats for adjustable passenger/cargo balance.

Engine Options and Performance

Powertrains cater to efficiency-focused buyers. The base 1.0-litre TCe petrol engine produces 114bhp and 190Nm torque, achieving 0-62mph in 12.1 seconds. It’s adequate for city runs but strains on highways, impacting refinement.

The standout is the full-hybrid 1.8-litre E-Tech setup at 158bhp. Seamless mode switching between electric, hybrid, and petrol delivers 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds. Though the engine note can feel disjointed initially, power flow remains smooth.

Diesel options and a plug-in hybrid (E-Tech plug-in with ~28 miles EV range) round out the lineup, though petrol and hybrid dominate for most buyers.

Technology and Driver Assistance

Tech is a strong suit. The 10-inch customizable digital cluster displays essential info crisply. The infotainment screen integrates navigation, media, and climate controls intuitively. Wireless connectivity and over-the-air updates keep it future-proof.

Assistance systems include adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and parking aids. Visibility is excellent for town driving, with good all-round sightlines and rear camera standard on higher trims.

Practicality for Everyday Use

Urban agility defines the Captur. Its compact dimensions ease parking, while the elevated ride height handles speed bumps confidently. Fuel economy excels in hybrid form, promising low running costs that earned it accolades like Best Small SUV from Auto Express.

Family haulers appreciate the versatile boot and ISOFIX points. Towing capacity suits light duties, and the smooth ride absorbs potholes well.

Safety Ratings and Features

Renault prioritizes safety with multiple airbags, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. Euro NCAP scores (from prior gen) were solid, and updates maintain high standards. Blind-spot monitoring enhances confidence on motorways.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Avg. savings of £3,362 off RRP make it a bargain. Warranty covers 3 years/60,000 miles, extendable. Residual values hold decently due to hybrid appeal. Servicing intervals suit low-mileage drivers.

Rivals like Peugeot 2008 or Nissan Juke offer similar tech, but Captur’s pricing and efficiency edge it ahead for value seekers.

Road Test Impressions

In mixed driving, the hybrid impresses with silent EV cruising in town and petrol kick-in on A-roads. Handling is composed, though not sporty. Wind noise is minimal at speed.

Trims and Pricing Breakdown

• E-Tech Evolution: Base hybrid, loaded with essentials (~£23k).
• Techno: Adds sat-nav, wireless charging (~£25k).
• Esprit Alpine: Premium finishes, Bose audio (~£28k).

Leasing deals undercut segment averages, boosting accessibility.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Efficient hybrids, spacious boot, customizable style, sharp pricing.
• Cons: Base engine sluggish, some cabin plastics basic.

Who Should Buy the Renault Captur?

Ideal for young families, commuters, or style-conscious drivers seeking efficiency without premium costs. It outshines pure petrol rivals in running expenses.

FAQ

What is the boot space of the Renault Captur?

Up to 536 liters with seats slid forward, expanding further when folded.

Is the Captur hybrid or plug-in?

Offers self-charging hybrid (158bhp) and plug-in variant with ~28 miles EV range.

How does it compare to Nissan Juke?

Captur provides more space and hybrid options at similar pricing.

What warranty does it come with?

3 years/60,000 miles, with hybrid battery covered longer.

Is it good for city driving?

Yes, compact size, great visibility, and EV mode excel in urban settings.