Renault calls the Captur ‘an urban crossover’, though in industry parlance it’s a ‘B-segment crossover’.
In the flesh, the Captur is certainly an eye-catching car. Go for the duo-tone roof and body option and the car stands out even more, partly because the contrasting colour extends to the A-pillars. It's all the more striking with the exterior trim Gloss Pack fitted around the fog lights and to the sills and grille.
And that eye-catchiness, has certainly paid dividends in the market, with Renault shifting more than 215,600 Capturs in 2016, making it Europe's best-selling B-segment crossover ahead of the Kia Soul and sibling the Nissan Juke. So significant its success, that Vauxhall, Kia and Volkswagen are all eyeing a piece of Renault's pie, however the French manufacturer refuses to sit still and has updated the small crossover for 2017.
Capturing the small Renault's vibe
The facelift saw Renault offer two new colours and one roof colour to the range, while external changes were largely limited to a new front end resembling its bigger brother the Kadjar and sharing C-shaped LED day-running lights similar to the Megané.
The largest change was the increase in standard equipment across the board over the outgoing model. There are still five trims to choose from - Expression+, Dynamique Nav, Dynamique S Nav, Signature X Nav and Signature S Nav.
Entry-level models get 16in alloys, electrically adjustable and heated wing mirrors, LED front fog lights, tinted rear windows, hill start assist, cruise control, and auto lights and wipers as standard on the outside, while inside there is air conditioning, height adjustable driver's seat, electric windows and keyless ignition.
Upgrade to Dynamique Nav and you'll find luxuries such as 17in alloy wheels, climate control, chrome interior trim and Renault's MediaNav infotainment system complete with sat nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and a 7.0in touchscreen display. Those wanting a bit more tech are well catered for with the Dynamique S Nav trim, which adds rear parking sensors, automatic folding door mirrors and full LED lights to the package.
Topping the range is the Signature X Nav and Signature S Nav trims. The former includes front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, an advanced traction control system, heated front seats, a leather upholstery and Renault's R-Link infotainment system complete TomTom-powered sat nav with live updates and European mapping. The S Nav derivative includes much the same minus the traction control system and includes blind spot monitoring, hands-free parking system, a part Nappa leather upholstery and a Bose stereo system.
