Renault has given its popular Captur a facelift, which includes a new front end, new lights, a more contemporary rear end, and a two-tone bodywork with 14 possible configurations.
According to the French marque, the Captur’s new front end takes on a more elegant, more technological look, with the Nouvel’R one-piece logo built into the multi-faceted grille, and a higher, more horizontal bonnet.
For purposes of engine cooling, the front end features a horizontal air intake above the aerodynamic splitter, with another in the bumper. Two air inlets positioned on either side of the front end, next to the daytime running lights, are said to contribute to aerodynamics and the cooling of the front brakes.
The new front lights feature full LED technology as standard on all levels of trim. In the same way as on the new Clio, the LED daytime running lights take on a vertical half-diamond shape. The headlights come to life in a new welcome sequence when the doors are unlocked remotely.
The rear light housing is now transparent, revealing the inside of the lamps. Combined with the new logo and redesigned diffuser, Renault says this feature gives the rear end a more contemporary look with a higher level of perceived quality.
Six body colours are available with 14 possible two-tone configurations. The optional exterior colour pack includes Highland Grey or Perle Beige door mirrors (High Gloss Black is standard), with front and rear skid plates and side mouldings in Highland Grey, Perle Beige or High Gloss Black.
Depending on trim level, the facelifted Captur is available with 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels, and a boot capacity of up to 616 litres.
Inside, Renault is replacing leather with grained cover material as the brand aims to completely phase out animal-derived materials by 2025. In the new Captur, Renault says all the upholstery includes recycled fabrics selected for their small carbon footprint, without compromising on perceived quality, feel or comfort.
Renault states that the Captur’s new 10.4-inch vertical centre touchscreen gains an OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in (depending on trim), which includes Android Automotive 12. Google services such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play apps can also all be accessed at the touch of a finger, just like on a smartphone.
The Captur is already available here with two powertrains – the TCe 90 petrol and the E-Tech Hybrid 145. These are expected to be retained for the Irish market. The TCe 90 petrol is a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged unit producing up to 90hp and 160Nm and is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The E-Tech Hybrid 145 comprises a 1.6-litre petrol-electric system with a six-speed automated gearbox, a 36kW electric motor and a 18kW high-voltage starter generator, plus a 1.2kWh battery pack.
We can expect to see the revised Renault Captur here in Ireland later this year, with pricing and specification to be confirmed in Q3.
