India bound Renault Kaptur unveiled

Renault reveals the new Kaptur crossover for emerging markets. It will go on sale in Russia starting the summer of 2016. India launch expected in 2017. 

This is the new Renault Kaptur – a longer, wider and apparently more affordable version of the Euro-spec Captur SUV. Renault says that it’s been developed specifically for emerging markets and will go on sale in Russia this summer. Following that, we can expect it come to Indian shores as well. As of now, Renault will produce the Kaptur at its production unit in Moscow.

On the outside, the Kaptur looks remarkably similar to the Captur. There are a few visual add-ons in the new model though – it gets C-shaped LED daytime running lamps, a reworked grille, new front bumper, LED tail lamps, etc. Dimensionally, it’s 211mm longer, 35mm wider and 47mm taller than its Euro twin. It also has a larger footprint since its wheelbase has been increased by 68mm over the Captur. Other than that there’s not much to differentiate one from the other.

There are some significant mechanical revisions in the new model though. Unlike the Renault Captur, which is based around the company’s B-platform, the Kaptur is underpinned by the company’s B0 platform. The B0 platform is the stretched version of the B-platform that underpins cars like the Duster. The Captur sold in European markets only comes with a front-wheel drive layout. But the Kaptur will be offered with a 4x4 drivetrain incorporating a locking centre differential like the Duster 4x4. It has a ground clearance of 204mm – identical to the India-spec Duster (205mm).

Renault has not disclosed the engine specifications of the new Kaptur, but it’s believed to feature a 1.5-litre diesel engine, paired to either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

Inside, the Kaptur gets a sporty theme with all-black interior and a dash of chrome around the centre console, gear-lever, steering wheel controls, AC vents, etc. The Russia-spec version is equipped with heated front seats, heated windscreen and MediaNAV infotainment system. The Captur, however, is fitted with the superior R-Link infotainment system.

The Renault Kaptur is speculated to come here sometime in 2017, and is expected to be positioned slightly above the Duster in the company’s model line-up for India.

Also read: 2016 Renault Duster Facelift Automatic Review: Test Drive