Renault Captur (2023) Review
FAST FACTS
Model: Renault Captur 1.3 turbo Intens
Price: R499 999 (May 2023)
Engine: 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol
Power/Torque: 113 kW/270 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
0-100 kph: 9.6 sec (claimed)
Fuel consumption: 6.6 L/100 km (claimed)
Luggage space: 536 or 404 litres (depending on rear-seat position)
Price and after-sales support
The 2023 Renault Captur Intens retails for R499 999 (May 2023) and comes with a 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan with intervals every 12 months/15 000 km.
The length of the Captur’s warranty (5 years) is longer than those of most of its competitors. The duration of the service plan (3 years) is on par with rivals, but some brands do offer 60 000 km service plans at this price point. Take that into account if you tend to clock up higher-than-average mileage.
Verdict
While the 2nd-gen Captur is a newcomer to our new-vehicle market, the model has been on sale in Europe since 2021. That means that an updated version may be on the cards in the next 2 (or so) years. Nonetheless, Renault’s compact SUV is much-improved – it has evolved from a budget crossover to something more premium that’s distinctive enough to compete with boutique compact SUVs.
The interior quality has been stepped up and the interface with the tech (aided by shortcut buttons) is intuitive/easy to acclimatise to. The bigger dimensions facilitate a more spacious cabin for occupants, while the sliding rear bench allows for a choice between a larger load space or additional rear legroom.
What’s more, the drivetrain pairing is smoother (or, to put it another way, better calibrated) than before, which makes the Captur’s driving experience quite pleasant, with very few drawbacks. Whether it’s operating unladen or with a few passengers aboard, the Renault performs ably and in a refined manner.
The major issue in this segment is the wide array of vehicles available to new-car buyers. It’s easy to get fixated on models’ specification sheets in your attempts to get the absolute most car for your money. That’s not really the Captur’s
schtick – it’s more a car that you want because you like its design or driving experience; it’s not trying to be the most practical package or offer the most driving assistance features. What you
do get, is a well-specced, good-looking crossover that’s likely to stand out in the parking lot.
It has taken 2 years to arrive in South Africa, but what is the new Renault Captur like to drive? We review the improved small crossover.
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