The plug-in hybrid is on the rise, but at the same time we are also seeing more and more hybrids without a plug. Renault, for example, adds such a version to the Captur range.
It is not surprising that the emphasis has recently been on plug-in hybrids. Apart from a larger battery pack and a charging port, these cars are often no more complex to develop than a ‘normal’ hybrid, while the (theoretical) CO2 savings by adding that charging option are much greater. However, the offer in this category has also increased in recent times. Also at Renault, which has definitively discovered the hybrid. Under the name E-Tech, the French recently launched a true hybrid offensive. In addition to PHEV variants of the Captur and the Mégane, this also included a plug-free hybrid, in the form of the Clio E-Tech Hybrid 140. The powertrain from that model is now transferred to the Captur, although it is called E-Tech here. Hybrid 145. Not without reason, because a new calibration (Renault’s words) increases the theoretical power from 140 to 143 hp. Apart from that, the powertrain of the hybrid Captur is identical to that of the Clio. A striking piece of technology is also mounted in the higher model, because the French certainly do not make it easy. The basis is not one of the well-known turbo engines of the brand, but a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder that originally comes from Nissan and runs here according to the economical Atkinson cycle. The whole thing is coupled to two electric motors that, together with an automatic four-speed gearbox without a clutch or torque converter, must ensure the most efficient possible drive at all times. This also means with this version that the wheels are often electrically driven, even though the motor usually rotates to provide power.
Unexpected switching moments
The Captur shifts gears and the engine keeps itself relatively quiet even when accelerating hard. At the same time, the E-Tech system sometimes feels a bit unnatural. The car is noticeably continuously calculating and sometimes switches the combustion engine on or off at unexpected moments. Also, the speed regularly ‘hangs’, as if the car forgets to switch up. Remarkable, but fortunately it is not accompanied by enormous shocks and the Captur does indeed accelerate with great ease.
The Captur in this form is heavier than a regular copy, but especially much lighter than the plug-in version. It remains a finely balanced car with ditto steering. It is not a tough appearance, but for a compact SUV, the Renault looks nice and smooth. The test sample is also an RS Line, a sporty version that was added to the range at the same time as the hybrid variant. The RS Line distinguishes itself from the regular Captur with larger wheels and a somewhat more aggressive front bumper. However, the hybrid version has a smaller luggage space than a regular copy. This is mainly due to the height of the actual floor and fortunately does not affect the functioning of the double floor. The car also has a handy sliding bench.
It is a pity that the backrest of the chair is not infinitely adjustable and the seating position is perhaps a bit high. But that fits well with the SUV character and makes the Captur a good choice in advance for those who want a high entry. Like the exterior, the interior of the RS Line is sporty, which is mainly reflected in red accents and some fake carbon. However, the whole looks naturally beautiful. The large surfaces are made of soft materials, the finish is often done with aluminum and the design is calm and original at the same time. The large, vertical screen looks very modern, although the response speed is disappointing. Fortunately, Renault has chosen to keep the climate control off the screen. We do miss a round volume knob here: a plus and a minus on the screen take care of that task.
Safety equipment
Although the Captur interior always looks beautiful, the overall picture is strongly dependent on the chosen version. For example, the ‘floating’ peninsula in the middle is not always present and simpler versions have a smaller and therefore less conspicuous touchscreen. With a starting price of €29,190, the Captur Hybrid is slightly cheaper than the only petrol variant with an automatic transmission and that alone gives it a lot of raison d’être. The safety equipment is excellent, including adaptive cruise control, an emergency braking system and a lane assistant. Renault does plenty of individual options.