By Malusi Msomi

Renault has given the Captur a meaningful update with the introduction of the new 1.3T Esprit Alpine, bringing sharper styling, a more upmarket cabin, and a familiar turbocharged powertrain to its compact SUV.

The refreshed Captur certainly looks the part. The new front-end design is more modern than before, while the F1-inspired front blade, full LED lighting, 19-inch Elixir alloy wheels, and Alpine styling touches give it a sportier character without feeling overdone.

Inside is where the Captur makes one of its biggest improvements. The cabin feels well put together, with Alpine-branded seats adding a touch of exclusivity. A 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto sits at the centre of the dashboard, joined by a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging, and automatic climate control. The overall fit and finish leave a positive first impression.

Power comes from a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine, co-developed with Mercedes-Benz, producing 113kW and 270Nm. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the powertrain feels smooth, refined, and responsive, making the Captur easy to drive both in town and on the open road.

After spending time behind the wheel, the Captur Esprit Alpine feels like a more mature and polished product than its predecessor. It offers a comfortable ride, a premium-feeling cabin, and enough performance to make everyday driving enjoyable.

Priced at R614,999, the Captur Esprit Alpine enters a fiercely competitive segment, taking on rivals such as the Volkswagen T-Cross, Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Peugeot 2008. Based on our first drive, it has the styling, technology, and refinement to make it a genuine contender.