Captur Sunset Ltd Edition welcomes in the first diesel-powered Captur

A crossover, is by the very definition thereof, an amalgamation of styles and functions, thrown together to create a vehicle that bridges gaps that exists in the automotive market. But if you think carefully, that also means that there is no specific definition of a crossover. You would be correct. Crossovers vary in shape and form, and even more so in function.

Renault's Captur, that released in South Africa mid 2015, is a crossover between a B segment hatch in size and the somewhat modular layout of an MPV. It offers a slightly raised driving position without allowing the overall size of the vehicle to be overwhelming.

The Captur has performed well so far and Renault SA has elected to expend on their range offerings by introducing a diesel derivative. This model slots in between the mid-range Captur 66 kW Dynamique and the range topping Captur 88 kW EDC Dynamique.

Renault's K9K engine.

It's a motor that we know all too well. Extremely versatile and used in a host of other makes and models, the K9K 1.5 dCi engine requires little in terms of introduction.

This 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine was co-developed with Nissan and has seen fitment to the likes of the Qashqai, Juke and NP200. Even Mercedes-Benz used the engine in their A-, B- and CLA-Class 180 CDI offerings.

Producing 66kW at 4000 rpm, with 220Nm torque from as low as 1750 rpm, the K9K engine is a pokey gem that has the get-up-and-go to make driving not only pleasant, but engaging and enjoyable as well. Advanced F1 technology incorporated into the design and construction of the engine means that it is responsive and flexible throughout the rev range. In fact, it's quite hard to catch this little motor out. No wonder it is Renault's best selling diesel engine in the world.

It's frugal too, with the Captur 1.5 dCi returning figures of only 3.8l/100km on the combined cycle and a paltry 95gm/km CO2 being emitted. It's now 35% more efficient than before and that should really attract those that do have running costs in mind. Our test drive, while putting it through it's paces, only yielded a figure of 4.5l/100km and even that is very acceptable.

The Captur 1.5 dCi is only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox at this point in time and there are no immediate plans to release it in an automatic EDC version. Only 20-odd% of customers look for the combination of diesel and automatic in this segment.

Limited Edition to welcome in the diesel.

Renault SA have created a mere 100 versions of the Captur Sunset which will mark the entrance of the diesel motor into the Captur range.

This striking combination of black and orange bodywork is immediately recognisable and the trimmings work well with the Captur shape, creating a stylish, contemporary look that will undoubtedly be favoured by those image concious amongst us.

The detailing extends to the interior as well where orange detailing on the center fascia, door speaker surrounds, air vent surrounds, steering wheel, upholstery and map book nets. It may sound garish, but the execution is well thought out and the satin finish of the Sunset Orange detailing elevates the perceived quality of the cabin.

Connected.

The Captur diesel also sees the fitment of Renault's MediaNav infotainment system with its 7-inch touch screen and Bluetooth connectivity. With its multitude of connectivity options, including an integrated interface for Aha, the streaming radio app, you can be assured to have some form of entertainment for the journey, or even the commute.

Improved functionality results in an overall improvement in the user experience, with enhanced sound control for music and voice prompts. The steering wheel now also features a voice command button that will activate Siri when the MediNav is paired with a Siri-equipped Apple product.

The MediaNav system is also bundled with navigation as standard and is of no additional cost to the buyer.

Pricing.

The Captur Diesel slots in nicely between the 66 kW Dynamique and the 88 kW Dynamique models and as such, is only available in a Dynamique trim itself.

Renault Captur models (Diesel in bold)

Renault Captur 1.2 66kW Turbo Expresion (Petrol)	R243 900
Renault Captur 1.2 66kW Turbo Dynamique (Petrol)	R264 900
Renault Captur 1.2 88kW Turbo Dynamique (Petrol)	R304 900
Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 66kW Turbo Dynamique (Diesel)	R289 900
Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 66kW Turbo Dynamique Sunset Ltd (Diesel)	R292 400