Renault Captur
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small SUV that combines style with practicality? The Renault Captur could be exactly what you need. This compact crossover has carved out a strong position in the competitive small SUV market by offering eye-catching design, clever interior features, and efficient hybrid powertrains. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want the higher driving position and versatility of an SUV without the bulk or running costs of a larger vehicle.

The Captur stands out from rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Kamiq with its bold, distinctive styling and customisation options. Inside, you’ll discover one of the most practical cabins in its class, thanks to the clever sliding rear seats that let you prioritise passenger space or boot capacity as needed. The infotainment system is intuitive and modern, while build quality feels solid throughout.

On the road, the Captur delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The hybrid engines are smooth and surprisingly economical, making your daily commute more affordable. It handles city streets with confidence while remaining comfortable on longer motorway journeys. While it commands a slightly higher price than some competitors, you’re getting French flair, innovative practicality, and strong fuel economy that makes every mile more enjoyable.

What's the Renault Captur Like to Drive?

The Renault Captur focuses on efficiency and smooth delivery rather than outright performance. The headline engine is the E-Tech Hybrid 145, which combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 143 horsepower. This setup feels responsive around town and provides adequate overtaking power on A-roads. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.8 seconds won’t set pulses racing, but it’s perfectly suitable for everyday driving needs.

What impresses most about the Captur is its refinement and ease of driving. The steering is light and precise, making parking in tight city spaces effortless. On the motorway, it settles into a comfortable cruise with minimal road noise entering the cabin. The suspension does an excellent job of smoothing out bumps and potholes, though it can feel slightly soft when pushing through corners. This compact SUV prioritises comfort over sportiness, which suits its family-friendly character perfectly. The CVT automatic gearbox works seamlessly with the hybrid system for smooth acceleration.

Inside the Renault Captur: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Captur and you’re greeted by one of the most thoughtfully designed interiors in the small SUV class. The dashboard features a clean, modern layout with a large 9.3-inch touchscreen taking centre stage. Material quality is impressive, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and attractive trim inserts that add visual interest. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustment range to help you find the perfect driving position.

The real party piece is the sliding rear bench seat, which can move forward or backward by 16cm. This clever feature lets you maximise boot space when carrying luggage or create extra legroom for rear passengers when needed. The cabin feels airy and spacious thanks to large windows and an optional panoramic sunroof. Standard equipment includes smartphone integration, climate control, and a good selection of USB ports. Road noise is well controlled, creating a serene environment for longer journeys that makes the Captur feel more expensive than it actually is.

The Renault Captur succeeds in delivering a well-rounded small SUV experience that prioritises practicality and efficiency over outright excitement. Its clever sliding rear seats, excellent fuel economy, and distinctive styling make it stand out in a crowded market. The hybrid powertrain is smooth and economical, while the interior feels more premium than the price suggests.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Renault Captur Expensive to Run?

The Captur shines when it comes to running costs, particularly with the hybrid powertrain. Real-world fuel economy of 50-55 mpg is easily achievable, which translates to fewer stops at petrol stations and lower monthly fuel bills. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically ranging from groups 12-18 depending on the engine choice. The hybrid models qualify for lower company car tax rates, making them attractive to business users.

Initial purchase prices start from around £22,000, positioning the Captur competitively against rivals. Renault’s warranty coverage is solid, and the brand has improved its reliability record in recent years. Service intervals are reasonable, and parts availability is generally good through the extensive dealer network. For those looking to spread the cost, flexible car finance options are available to suit different budgets. The strong fuel economy and competitive insurance costs help offset the initial investment, making the Captur an economical choice for long-term ownership.

Renault Captur Practicality & Boot Space

The Captur excels in practical everyday usability. Boot space ranges from 348 litres with the rear seats in their most rearward position to an impressive 536 litres when they’re slid forward. This flexibility is rare in the small SUV class and makes the Captur incredibly versatile for different situations. The rear seats split and fold completely flat, creating a useful loading area for larger items like furniture or sports equipment.

Interior storage is well thought out, with plenty of cubbyholes, cup holders, and door bins for everyday items. The higher driving position gives excellent visibility in traffic, while the compact dimensions make it easy to navigate narrow streets and squeeze into tight parking spaces. For families, the Captur offers genuine five-seat capability, though adults in the rear will appreciate the sliding seats for extra legroom on longer trips. Compared to other used Renault cars, the Captur represents excellent value for space and versatility in a manageable package.

The Renault Captur stands out in the competitive small SUV market by offering genuine innovation alongside attractive styling and strong efficiency. Its clever sliding rear seats provide unmatched versatility in the class, while the hybrid powertrain delivers impressive real-world fuel economy. The interior feels well-built and modern, with intuitive technology that enhances the driving experience.

This is a small SUV that doesn’t ask you to compromise on practicality or running costs. Its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and easy manoeuvrability make it ideal for both urban driving and longer trips. For buyers seeking a stylish and efficient family car with genuine SUV versatility, the Captur represents excellent value. With competitive options available, it’s worth considering for your next vehicle purchase.