RENAULT CAPTUR

Modernised design and Google infotainment tech for French firm's big seller

- WILL RIMELL

TESTED 7.6.24, MADRID, SPAIN

ON SALE JULY

The Renault Captur has gone under the knife, receiving a fresh face, a reworked interior and new infotainment to further enhance its appeal.

Despite still being one of Renault's best-sellers, the Mk2 Captur, launched in 2019, had been looking a little previous-generation of late. Enter new design boss Gilles Vidal. After a new design language was applied to the Clio, Scenic and Rafale, the Captur was next in line.

What's more impressive than the sharp new look, however, is what remains unchanged: the Captur's strong value for money.

Prices for the compact crossover start at £21,095, which is £500 less than before and undercuts many rivals, like the Ford Puma (£25,800), Hyundai Kona (£26,040) and Nissan Juke (£23,500) - a car that has also just been updated, albeit minimally.

The Evolution model provides a comprehensive spec for that entry price, including a new 10.4in infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rear-view camera and cruise control. Techno trim (from £22,795) adds Google integration and a 10.25-in digital instrument display, while top-rung Esprit Alpine (£27,995) brings 19-in alloys, adaptive cruise control and heated, electrically adjustable front seats.

As well as simplifying the trim line-up, Renault has cut down its powertrain offering to the bare essentials. Buyers have the option of either an 89bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged TCe petrol engine with a six-speed manual gearbox or a 1.6-litre full hybrid with 143bhp. The E-Tech option is now available on all trim levels, but you can't have a TCe Esprit Alpine.