The Renault Captur made its debut in 2015, and since then, the French automaker has globally sold 1.5 million units of the first-gen model. Renault has kept it simple, offering just two models in their range: the Zen and Intens. We recently sampled the latter to explore its features.
The new Captur looks the part, thanks to an aggressive exterior design with styling cues from the brand’s new Clio hatchback. Exterior highlights include a wider grille, LED headlights with C-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), and a lower front bumper with functional air inlets. In profile, the Captur is striking, fitted with 17-inch wheels.
Inside, the Captur Intens feels premium and modern compared to its predecessor. When entering the cabin, you can expect a driver-focused cockpit, soft-touch materials, a massive 9.3-inch touch display, a 10-inch TFT digital cluster, an e-shifter gear selector, and sliding 60:40 split rear seats. Overall, the cabin is solid and on par with its competitors, marking a massive leap from the previous model.
Safety-wise, the Captur Intens is well-equipped with features like six airbags, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), ABS, EBD, HSA, front and rear park assist with a reverse camera, Lane Departure Warning, cruise control, Blind Spot Warning, Traffic Sign recognition with a speed limit warning, and more. Additional safety features include front airbags, head/chest side bags, seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters (front seats), anti-submarining front seats, anti-whiplash headrests, and force limiter function (rear side seats). Three ISOFIX 3-point child seat anchor seat attachments are also fitted to the front passenger and rear side seats.
Powering the new Captur is a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine developing a healthy 113kW and 270Nm, paired with a 7-speed EDC (Efficiency Dual Clutch) auto gearbox. During our test, the standout feature of the Captur is the adaptability of its turbocharged petrol engine, providing punchy acceleration and good fuel economy. Renault claims the new Captur will average 6.6l/100km, and we achieved exactly that during our stint. The ride quality is impressive as it handles most surfaces quite well.
The Renault Captur Intens, priced at R499,999, impresses with its stylish exterior redesign and impressive interior. With a spacious interior, modern tech features, and a well-tuned suspension, the Captur Intens stands out as a versatile and enjoyable compact SUV.
