Test drive Renault Captur XMOD: New time

Captur Test with Advanced XMOD Traction Control

Its youthful body shapes definitely attract attention - in a car with the Captur idea, this style is welcome. The lack of dual drive alone (plus the combination of relatively long overhangs and low front apron) precludes the idea of ​​riding in difficult terrain in its infancy, but to be completely honest, the truth is that there are no cars in this category. feels at home in such conditions. In this case, the presence of only one drive axle provides even very specific benefits - it saves weight, opens up more space in the cabin and, last but not least, reduces the final cost of the car.

Practical and spacious inside

Captur is small in appearance, but there is enough space on board for passengers. The flexibility of the interior is also impressive. For example, the rear seat can be moved 16 centimeters horizontally, which, depending on the needs, provides ample legroom for second-row passengers or more luggage space (455 liters instead of 377 liters). In addition, the glove box is huge and a practical zip-up upholstery is also available for a small fee. The control logic of the Captur functions is borrowed from Clio. With the exception of a few cryptic buttons - to activate the tempo and Eco mode - the ergonomics are excellent. The XNUMX-inch touchscreen infotainment system is available at a good price and features really intuitive controls.

The high seating position, which has traditionally been one of the main arguments for buying a crossover or SUV, is certainly a major advantage for the Captur. In addition to a good view, the driver has reason to be content with a convenient layout of his workplace. The balanced chassis combines decent cornering stability with really good ride comfort. Whether it's short or long strikes, with or without a load, the Captur always rides well. great seating also contributes to long-distance comfort.

Хharmonic diesel engine

It seems that the most reasonable option for driving the model at the moment is the good old diesel familiar with the dCi 90 marking, which, with a maximum torque of 220 Newton meters, provides excellent traction during acceleration, runs smoothly and evenly, and most importantly even in sports. The driving style practically does not raise its consumption above six liters per hundred kilometers. The EDC dual-clutch transmission works pleasantly smoothly in a quiet ride, and with a sportier driving style, its reaction becomes a little jittery. The manual shift mode works well and is useful in areas with a lot of bends.

The XMOD advanced traction control is very easily controlled by the rotary knob on the center console and actually turns out to be a very sensible proposition for the Captur as it really does care about significantly improving its behavior on paved roads. Given the nature of this model, such a solution makes up for the lack of a dual-drive option in the Captur line.

EVALUATION

Body+ Extensive, taking into account the external dimensions of the car interior, solid processing, a good view of the driver's seat, numerous storage spaces, many options for transforming the internal volume

Comfort

+ Comfortable seats, pleasant ride comfort

– Acoustic comfort at high speeds could be better

Engine / transmission

+ Improved diesel engine with confident traction, smooth operation of the transmission with a quiet ride

– With a more sporty driving style, the reaction of the gearbox becomes jittery.

Travel behavior

+ Safe driving, good traction

– Slightly synthetic steering feel

Costs

+ Affordable price and rich standard equipment, low fuel consumption

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Photo: Melania Iosifova