Test Drive of the New Renault Captur 2021: Matured

The new second-generation Renault Captur has entered the Ukrainian market. The first-generation compact crossover from Renault turned out to be quite popular, and now we have the opportunity to briefly get acquainted with its successor.

The first thing that catches the eye is that the new Renault Captur has become noticeably larger. The crossover has added 11 cm in length (up to 4227 mm), mainly due to the rear overhang since the wheelbase has increased slightly to 2639 mm.

The design of the 2021 Renault Captur has become more solid and mature, with muscular relief side panels and protruding fenders. The branded smile of the Renault grille is combined with C-shaped headlights. By the way, they are now LED even in the base version. The thin taillights of the crossover look original.

The interior has improved trim and added silver inserts. The steering wheel and some of the switches are familiar from other models of the brand, such as the Duster or Renault Arkana. Although they don’t have a virtual dashboard with changing graphics, the Captur does.

A 7-inch touchscreen is mounted on the central panel. Multimedia is already complemented by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the base. It is also worth noting the original pedestal of the gear lever – thus it is raised higher, which is more convenient. In addition, there are now 2 USB ports at the front and rear.

The range of steering column adjustments in Renault Captur 2021 has increased. The front seats are soft and better support the back, though more side support wouldn’t hurt. Visibility has also been improved.

Between the seats, there are not only cup holders but also a special niche for the key. A small box appeared in the armrest, but the non-standard sliding glove compartment was discarded – now it’s conventional.

The second row has become a bit more spacious, and the rear seats still have horizontal adjustment. But mainly, the increase in length went to the trunk: now its volume is 422-536 liters, and with the rear seats folded, it is 1275 liters.

The equipment of the Renault Captur in Ukraine is rich – there will be no frankly empty versions. The base already includes 17-inch wheels, keyless entry, rain and light sensors, parking sensors, climate control, cruise control. In the Intense variant, like ours, steering wheel heating, a rearview camera, and navigation have been added.

The new Renault Captur is offered only with 1.3-liter gasoline turbocharged fours, but there will be no more diesel. We have the 130-horsepower version on the test, but a 155-horsepower variant will also be available.

Basically, the engine is enough for the city – it is quite lively and quickly responds to the gas pedal (especially in sport mode). The peak 240 Nm of torque is available from a low 1600 rpm, and the 7-speed robot works quickly and smoothly.

Although it won’t work to drive hard, the dynamics are not outstanding, but better than its predecessor – 9.6 s to a hundred. Of course, the 155-horsepower version will be preferable, especially on the highway. The declared consumption is 8.8 l/100 km in the city and 5.4 l/100 km on the highway.

The Renault Captur 2021 is not as soft as before – the suspension has become stiffer, though only serious bumps are really noticeable. However, the crossover handles better. The steering is now more precise, the roll in corners is slightly less, and the car maneuvers more confidently. Noise insulation is significantly improved – it’s much quieter in the cabin. The rear brakes are still drum, but there’s no question about deceleration.

The new Renault Captur 2021 has grown and matured and is even more richly equipped. Prices start at 603,900 hryvnias (or 553,900 hryvnias if on credit), and the Intense test variant costs from 662,500 hryvnias.

Renault Captur Specifications:

  • 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine, front transverse
  • Volume 1332 cm3
  • Power 130 at 5500 rpm
  • Maximum torque 240 Nm at 1600 rpm
  • All-wheel drive
  • 7-speed robotic gearbox with dual clutch
  • Maximum speed 193 km/h
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h 9.6 s
  • Fuel consumption city/highway 8.8/5.4 l/100 km
  • Length/width/height/wheelbase 4227/1797/1576/2639 mm
  • Trunk volume 422-1275 liters
  • Ground clearance 174 mm
  • Turning diameter 11.1 m

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