Renault has unveiled the production version of its Captur SUV at the Geneva Motor Show 2013.
This SUV was first previewed as the Captur concept back at the Geneva Motor Show 2011. Renault is positioning the Captur as a compact crossover, using the Nissan-Renault ‘B’ platform that also as the Clio and the Nissan Juke. At a length of 4,120mm, it is a little shorter than the 4,135mm Juke but longer than the 3,986mm Clio.
The Captur is based on the Clio hatch and takes the place of the Modus MPV in the Renault lineup. It is significantly more roomy than the Juke from Nissan. It however does not offer 4WD even as an option as Renault believes customers in this segment do not really require 4WD. On the outside, the SUV has a two-tone exterior as standard with a large Renault logo on the nose, swept-back headlights, a short and stubby tail, upswept C-pillar, and optional two-tone roof. Standard equipment includes parking sensors, hill start assist, and keyless entry. An optional extra is the R-Link system that adds a touchscreen tablet for accessing infotainment functions, the speaker system, and the Bluetooth system. Engines are likely to be the same petrol (0.9l, 1.2l turbo)/diesel (1.5l) ones as used in the Clio, with a six-speed dual clutch gearbox. A highlight is the 96g/km CO2 emissions of the diesel model, far lower than the 129g/km Juke but 2g/km more than the Clio.
Renault’s Valladolid plant in Spain will serve as the manufacturing base for the Captur. The SUV will be on sale in the UK from June onwards with a starting price of INR 10.5 lakhs (GBP 13,000). It could be an interesting option for India as it would slot in nicely between the Duster at one end and the Yeti at the other. We say Renault India – bring it down here!
