The new compact SUV fills the gap between the combustion-only models of the Captur and the flagship plug-in hybrid variant, competing with rivals like the Toyota C-HR and the Hyundai Kona Hybrid.
The powertrain of the Captur E-Tech comprises a 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, an integrated starter generator, a conventional electric motor, and a 1.2 kWh battery. It has a combined power of 143 hp, sent to the front wheels through an automatic gearbox.
Renault says the Captur Hybrid will return up to 56.6 mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, while CO2 emissions are as low as 114 g/km. The electric motor also fills in the gaps between gear changes, making the car smoother to drive, according to Renault.
The powertrain has three driving modes: Pure, MySense, and Sport. The first forces the car to run solely on electric power; the second automatically adjusts the amount of electric assistance according to the owner’s driving style, while the last optimizes the engine and electrical system for maximum performance.
Regenerative braking helps recharge the compact battery on the move. The system has three settings: a low interference mode, a mode that only activates regeneration when the brake pedal is pressed, and a ‘B Mode,’ which increases the intensity of regeneration and allows one-pedal driving when running on electric power. The stored charge is sufficient for a short electric range at low speed.
Buyers can choose from three specifications: Iconic, S Edition, and RS Line. The base model comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, C-shaped daytime running lights – Renault’s trademark, tinted rear windows, and parking sensors.
Inside, there’s a leather steering wheel, automatic climate control, a 4.2-inch display for the instrument cluster, and a seven-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated satellite navigation. Buyers also get lane-keeping assistance, active emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition.
Upgrades over the Iconic level include 18-inch alloy wheels, two-tone paint, roof bars, and a seven-inch digital instrument cluster. There are also additional safety features, such as front and rear parking sensors, high-beam assistance, a rear-view camera, and an electronic parking brake with hill start assist.
The Captur E-Tech Hybrid is also available in the RS Line trim, featuring various sporty styling cues inspired by Renault’s high-performance models. These include unique 18-inch alloys, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, a honeycomb radiator grille, and chrome exhaust outlets.
The cabin also benefits from touches like a sports steering wheel, specific RS Line upholstery, a black roof, aluminum pedals, Renault Sport-branded tread plates, and dashboard trim with a carbon fiber effect. There’s also a frameless rearview mirror, while the standard infotainment system is replaced by a larger 9.2-inch unit.
