Renault Captur 2020: The Driving Experience

 The arrival of the first-generation Renault Captur was timed with a level of perfection that would suit a Swiss railway. It may not have been the first small SUV to hit the market, but it was early enough to ride the crest of a wave that's since become a tsunami of high-riding, compact cars.

A big part of the Captur’s success was its distinctive looks with a splash of customisation. This helped it stand out from the crowd and, for this second-generation Captur, Renault's stuck with the same theme.

But while it might look similar on the outside, inside and underneath it’s a whole new ball game. Plusher plastics, more substantial switches and upgraded digital displays aim to give it more pizazz, especially in top-spec models. And a slight growth spurt over its predecessor helps to realise more space for passengers and their luggage.

Under the bonnet, you’ll find a range of modern petrol and diesel engines, with power outputs ranging from 93bhp all the way up to 158bhp. The punchiest power figure belongs to the E-Tech plug-in hybrid, which combines a petrol engine with an electric motor to reduce emissions and offer electric-only driving. 

So, if you already own an original Captur or you’re thinking about buying the Renault Captur 2020 for the first time, don’t be duped by the latest car's familiar looks – there’s plenty to discuss. And that’s no bad thing, given how competitive the small SUV class is, with the keen-handling Ford Puma, the spacious Skoda Karoq and the comfort-orientated Volkswagen T-Roc among the rivals to consider.

Performance & drive

Opening the range is the 66KW Turbo Captur petrol that comes exclusively with a five-speed manual gearbox. We'd recommend the 88KW turbocharged Captur EDC four-cylinder petrol is the best all-round engine in the Renault Captur 2020 range at Group 1 Renault. As long as you keep the revs past 2000rpm, it has enough oomph for stress-free travel around town and on motorways alike. You can opt to have the 88kW model with a manual or EDC gearbox.

Handling

The Captur’s steering is precise enough and light around town. It's capable and there's far less body lean than you'll experience in the Citroën C3 Aircross.

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Article sourced from: https://www.whatcar.com

Renault Service Centre Shares Tips

 Hopefully, you’re already having your Renault serviced at one of the Renault Service Centers near you. We share some tips straight from a certified Renault Service Center to ensure your Renault always stays in tip-top shape.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR TYRES

Tyres are part of the "Safety Triangle" along with brakes and shock absorbers. They are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road!

In order not to damage your tyres and ensure your safety, we recommend that you carry out:

- A cold pressure check every month and before every long journey

- A regular check of the wear of your tyres using the wear indicator located in the tyre grooves

- The changing of your tyres in pairs in case of wear have the new tyres fitted in the rear

- The balancing and parallelism adjustment if needed

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AIR CONDITIONING

Air conditioning is far more than hot or cold air. Demisting efficiently, treating the air, regulating the temperature as you want it, air conditioning has an important role in your car.

WARNING SIGNS

- You notice a decrease in the efficiency of the cooling or heating of the passenger compartment

- You have allergies (sneezing, coughing, irritation) when you use it

- The passenger compartment smells unpleasantly

- Condensation remains on the windows

If you notice one of these signs, have your air conditioning checked in one of our workshops. Our experts are on hand to advise you.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHOCK ABSORBERS

Shock absorbers are part of the "Safety Triangle" along with brakes and tyres. They are continuously in use, therefore it is very important to have them checked regularly to ensure good road-holding and driving comfort.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BRAKING

Brakes are used during every journey and they are one of the most important elements in your vehicle. By regularly maintaining your brakes, you will maintain your safety, that of your passengers as well as that of other road users. This is why Renault offers you various fixed prices.

If you’re looking for a reliable, certified Renault Service Centre near you - simply visit a Group 1 Renault workshop.

Article sourced from: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-service-centre-shares-tips

2019 Renault Duster Facelift Reviewed

 

The Renault Duster for sale received subtle cosmetic changes including a redesigned front, a fresh bonnet and new front bumpers. It also got LED DRLs and a set of projector headlamps. The front grille now has more chrome surrounds. The rear was worked on too, as it now sports new roof rails as well as black padding on the tailgate. Renault also gave the Duster a new set of alloys.

 

The interiors are now decked in a new seat fabric, while the infotainment system now features phone app connectivity. The car also received an update in its safety system, including dual front airbags, ABS, parking sensors and speed warning.

Renault did not touch the engine, however, and it continues with its 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The 1.5-litre petrol engine makes 106 PS of maximum power and 142 Nm of peak torque. It has a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional CVT gearbox. The diesel engine, on the other hand, makes 110 PS of maximum power and 248 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with an AMT gearbox as optional.

The car launched in 2019 was priced higher than the then current-gen Duster (2018) due to its cosmetic and safety upgrades.

You can find the 2019 Renault Duster for sale at Group 1 Renault dealerships near you.

Article source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/technology/2019-renault-duster-to-launch-soon-gets-a-number-of-cosmetic-changes-4088891.html

Facelifted 2019 Renault Kwid Updates

 At the end of 2018, it was reported that the Renault Kwid would likely get a facelift and another report said that the updated model would go on sale in South Africa in October 2019.

The Renault Kwid was launched in India in September 2015 and in South Africa in November 2016. It gained a new standard safety feature - ABS. 

On the outside, the facelifted Renault Kwid price included minor design changes to the headlamps, radiator grille, front and rear bumpers and tail lamps. Inside, the overall layout and design remained the same. Changes included new fabric seats, enhancements to the instrument cluster and new trim appointments. The MediaNAV Evolution infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support replaced the MediaNAV unit. 

The engine and transmission choices remained the same. Renault may wait to upgrade the 0.8- and 1.0-litre SCe naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engines. 

In the BSIV form, the 0.8-litre engine produces 56 PS and 72 Nm of torque and the 1.0-litre engine develops 68 PS and 91 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, but there is an option for a 5-speed AMT on selecting the bigger engine.

Check out the Renault Kwid price in Group 1 Renault’s new and used Renault vehicle showrooms and choose the one that makes your heart throb!

Article source: https://indianautosblog.com/renault-kwid-facelift-october-p316464

Renault Triber Is A People-Moving Delight

 Great space and low price for the Renault Triber 2020 - a new budget seven-seater.

Renault’s new Triber is not a soft-roader, nor is it a hatch, according to its maker. As it has space for seven passengers, it’s a multipurpose vehicle and it slots in as an affordable family offering for budget-seeking customers who’d have gone for a Kwid instead.

Imported from India, the Triber is built on a new modular platform that’s different to the one that underpins the Kwid. It spans 3,999mm from nose to tail and 1,739mm wide. The entire Triber range, available at Group 1 Renault dealerships already, is powered by a 1.0l naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine linked to a five-speed manual. Automatic transmissions are scheduled to arrive later in the year.

According to Renault SA the motor differs from that found in the Kwid range in that it boasts variable valve timing and produces 52kW and 96kW, which is more than the 50kW and 91Nm of the Kwid.

It’s an attractive vehicle with a more elaborate frontal styling than the Kwid. The rest of it is conventional by MPV shapes but there’s some distinctive Ford Ecosport in its rear styling. It also delivers in terms of the promised usability, and head, leg and shoulder room seems generous for such a tiny MPV.

Seating arrangements are among the cleverest I’ve seen. The three-seat bench directly behind the front pair can fold flat while the rearmost seats can be easily removed from the car to enable boundless configurations to suit cargo shapes and length. Lanky people are able to fit in the rearmost bench, though for how long it is not known.

It’s also got plenty in terms of oddments with storage nooks all over the fairly well-built cabin. The seats are covered in hard-wearing but nonindustrial materials and they were quite comfy to sit on. It has a well-weighted steering wheel minus any multifunctionality buttons but adequately sized in thickness and it adjusts for height but not reach.  

The 2020 Renault Triber launches in three grades: Expression, Dynamique and Prestige, of which the latter specification was exclusively availed for the first drive.

Available amenities in the high-spec include an LED illuminated digital instrument cluster, a refrigerated glovebox, 20.3cm MediaNav display touch screen that not only beams infotainment features but the view out back when reversing, keyless entry with automatic lock and unlock, and a single USB port. It’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The safety net is in the form of ABS brakes, seat belts for seven, and driver and passenger airbags, while the Prestige model adds side airbags.

From a tech tools perspective the Triber is not found wanting that much but it’s not a similar story when it comes to its on-road mannerisms. You’ll need to rev the small engine to get it moving, an exercise that brings harsh noise to the fore, and not much of a forward shove for that matter.

It’s a motor that requires constant downchanges to keep up with national highway speed momentum and this not only makes it a laborious car to take on long trips, but also blows off Renault’s claimed fuel consumption averages of 5.5l/100km. My launch unit used 9.4l/100km while negotiating the hilly drive from Durban up towards Pietermaritzburg.

Once on the move, the front-wheel drive chassis is inclined to wallow in the corners thanks to a top-heaviness that announces itself with pronounced heaving midcorner. Uneven road surfaces also pose a problem as the car seems unable to damp out the variances, resulting in a skittishness.

Given that the Triber is meant for seven passengers, the wheezy performance of the motor left me in doubt that it can successfully execute that mandate while the behaviour of the suspension at speed makes me worry even more about its fortunes.

In reality, this new Triber is a brilliant idea in this cost-conscious market and with prices starting at R164,900 it’s likely to match the Kwid’s sales success. Keep it within the confines of the city where speeds don’t reach 100km/h and it should make for a fine soccer mom’s car.

The Renault Triber comes standard with a two-year/ 30,000km Service Plan, five-year/150,000km warranty and 15,000km service intervals.

 

 

Article source: https://bonjourrenault.wordpress.com/2020/08/19/renault-triber-is-a-people-moving-delight/

Renault Clio Overhauled

While the Nissan Jukes and Ford Ecosports of this world might be slicing into the sales of conventional superminis, there is still a big market for these affordable compact models.

The Fiesta remains Ford’s best-seller in the UK; the Corsa as Vauxhall’s, and for Renault, it’s the Clio. It’s been a huge success story, and despite the presence of the firm’s similarly-sized Captur crossover, it’s done little to detract sales from this hatch. The opposite, in fact.

With 15 million sold since it was launched 30 years ago, as well as being the European class-leader for sales since 2013, this remains a mightily important car for Renault.

The last model looked the part, but wasn’t especially good to drive and had a sub-par interior come the end of its lifetime, so can this fifth-generation Renault Clio sort that?

If you just look at this new Clio, you could be mistaken for thinking it’s little more than a mild facelift. Renault hasn’t changed the styling dramatically and is happy to admit it. The old one still looked great, and apparently that’s why most buyers choose the Clio anyway.

Key to this new model is its new CMF-B platform, which allows it to be more spacious, as well as being available with a hybrid powertrain for the first time.

Another big change is in the interior, which feels far more upmarket, while top-spec versions feature a large 9.3-inch touchscreen, as well as the option for a 10-inch digital instrument cluster.

Buyers have plenty of engine choice with the Clio at Group 1 Renault, with petrol and diesel engine options ranging from 74bhp to 128bhp.

But our test car features the mid-range option – a turbocharged 1.0-litre producing 99bhp and 160Nm of torque. It’s not what you’d call quick, and it’s a shame the turbo doesn’t deliver a bit more zing (like it does in Ford’s EcoBoost-powered models, for example), with 0-60mph taking 11.6 seconds, while maxed-out Renault says it would hit 116mph. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox, which is pleasant enough, but let down by an overly chunky gear knob.

On the plus side, it’s very efficient, claiming to do 54.3mpg, which is easily achievable, along with CO2 emissions of 99g/km.

A Fiesta or Mini remains a more obvious choice if you’re wanting the best supermini to drive, but whether you’re looking for a town runabout or something for small motorway commutes, the Clio is a great all-rounder.

Our test car’s small 16-inch alloy wheels equate to a comfortable ride, while the Clio is also easy to place through corners with minimal body roll. We might usually complain about the Clio’s rather light steering, but as it will predominantly be a town car, it’s really a good thing as it makes it exceptionally easy to manoeuvre. One of the only things we’d like to see is a six-speed manual, which would just help to drop the revs at motorway speeds and lead to an overall more relaxed drive.

With styling being something Renault absolutely excels at, it’s not surprising that the manufacturer hasn’t really done anything radical here.

The new Clio is arguably more noticeable than before thanks to its C-shaped LED daytime running lights, while LED headlights are fitted as standard, which is something uncommon at this price point.

Just like before, Renault has tried the “make a five-door car look like it has three” look with the integrated rear door handles, while the same compact profile remains.

A sportier-looking RS Line grade serves those wanting something a bit more aggressive, too.

It’s the interior where Renault has been really making the difference, and it’s significantly better than the cheap plasticky-feeling cabin of the last car. New materials give it a more upmarket feel, while even the regular seven-inch touchscreen on our test model offers all the functions you could wish for (smartphone mirroring, sat-nav, etc). More tech is offered with the larger 9.3-inch unit and the cool digital dials, though we don’t see the need to pay extra for them when the standard setup works perfectly as it is.

Meanwhile, its 391-litre boot is the largest you’ll find in the supermini class, while rear space is generous for adults, too.

Standard kit is impressive and pretty much features all the equipment you could ask for from a supermini. While you can spend more on a top-spec model, this version here offers a great balance of equipment and affordability.

Overall this new Clio is a big step forward compared to its predecessor and makes key improvements in all the areas where it needed to – the interior and driving experience, namely.

It might not lead the way for driver enjoyment, but the new Clio is an accomplished all-rounder that offers great value, spaciousness and comfort. This mid-spec Iconic grade and TCe 100 petrol engine tested here is also a winning combination – offering just the right amount of performance for a car of this size, plenty of standard kit and low running costs. With all these attributes, it undoubtedly makes the Clio one of the best superminis on sale today.

THE FACTS

• Model: Renault Clio Iconic TCe 100

• Top Speed: 116mph

• Performance: 0-60mph in 11.6 seconds

• Economy: 54.3mpg

• CO2 emissions: 99g/km

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Article from: https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/lifestyle/motors/2187526/road-test-renault-clio-overhaul-a-change-for-the-better/

A little About The Used Renault Sandero

A full used buyer’s guide on the Renault Sandero for sale.

Due to its bargain price at Group 1 Renault, it would be easy to dismiss the used Renault Sandero as an also-ran that could never rival the likes of the Peugeot 208, Kia Rio or even the DS 3. But the reality is that as an overall ownership proposition, it trounces these cars as they rank well below the Renault in this year’s Driver Power survey. There’s no denying the value the used Renault provides. So if you’re looking for cheap motoring but don’t want to compromise reliability, comfort or practicality, we’d recommend you get better acquainted with the Sandero.

Buyers love their premium models, so the idea of launching a budget car brand might have seemed crazy to many people when Renault arrived in 2013.

This Renault subsidiary started out as Romania’s national car maker 50 years ago, but was absorbed into the French giant’s portfolio in 1999. And it swiftly made waves by launching the UK’s cheapest car, in the shape of the sub-R120,000 Sandero.

But while this supermini follows Renault’s template of providing reliable, practical transport on a budget instead of focusing on cutting-edge tech or design flair, there’s more to it than just a low price. The brand offers a range of engines, well equipped higher-spec models and a rugged-looking, crossover-style Stepway model. And owners tell us they love their Sanderos.

History

The first Renault Sanderos hit UK dealers in January 2013. Buyers could choose from 73bhp 1.2 or 90bhp turbocharged 0.9-litre petrol engines, plus a 90bhp 1.5 diesel. At launch there were Access, Ambiance and Laureate trim levels, as well as the chunky Stepway, but in March 2015 a Laureate Prime was added. This new range-topping car had Cosmos Blue metallic paint, electric rear windows, upgraded interior trim and a seven-inch multimedia touchscreen.

Euro 6 engines were fitted from August 2015, cutting CO2 emissions and boosting fuel economy. In April 2016 an Ambiance Prime special edition was launched, with alloys, metallic paint and front foglights.

Entry-level Access models feature steel wheels, black bumpers and manual windows. They don’t even have a radio, although they do get power-steering, ESP, tyre pressure monitors and a split rear seat. Move up to the Ambiance and there are body-coloured bumpers, more upmarket interior trim, remote central locking, electric front windows, Bluetooth and a radio.

The flagship Laureate has alloys, posher cabin trim, a trip computer, cruise control, air-con, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, plus height-adjustable front seats and seatbelts. The Stepway only comes in Ambiance and Laureate trims.

Article from: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/Renault/sandero/96586/used-dacia-sandero-review

Things We Like About The Renault Sport Megane

Even though you’re acutely aware it’s making you look like a yob, you just can’t help but downshift and floor it through tunnels with this car. The reason? All the silly pops and bangs - they’re addictive. Plus, the noises coming from the centre exit exhaust are more natural than what you get in the Hyundai i30 N.

Fun though they are in the Hyundai, it’s a little too engineered. In the Megane, on the other hand, there’s more of a sense of unpredictability to the exhaust racket, making it seem more natural.

The ride is woeful

One of the things we dislike most about the RS300 is the way it rides. As it’s seen use as a film crew car, the Trophy has been roped into tracking car duties a few times, something it’s no good at - there’s no way to get a steady shot. More relevantly, the firm ride really hampers everyday comfort. At least the seats are supportive.

We love the way it looks

The moment it was delivered, the Trophy really stood out thanks to its Liquid Yellow finish. The colour enhances the Renault Megane’s handsome and aggressive looks.

It’s incredibly capable

You’ll find the Trophy to be an utter weapon on the right road. In the dry, the mechanical limited-slip differential and bespoke Bridgestone S007 tyres work together brilliantly, giving a feeling of endless traction and a great sense of confidence behind the wheel.

Test drive a Renault Megane or Megane RS at a Group 1 Renault and experience this sick ride for yourself.

Article source: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/things-we-like-about-the-renault-sport-megane

All You Need To Know About The Renault Kwid

The Renault Kwid was the car that not only pioneered "SUVish" styling in the entry-level hatchback but also got it right. It was a critically acclaimed design that persuaded quite some car buyers to put their money on it. However, it has been in the market for good four years and had started looking a bit dated by the day. Hence, the new Kwid Facelift arrives just at the right time to regain that interest and we have to admit that it has given the brand a good dose of freshness, at least in the looks department. Here's all you need to know about the new Renault Kwid.

1. The design changes in the new Kwid Facelift are centred on its face. The most prominent one of course is the split headlamp set up and the grille looks tad wider than before. It is flanked by the daytime running lights (DRLs) which are integrated in the turn indicator assembly. The bumper has grown taller than before and looks more muscular. The side and rear of the new Kwid remains identical to its predecessor while there are LED detailing in the tail lamps.
2. While the cabin of the new Kwid looks largely the same in terms of layout, the colour looks a shade darker than before. It gets crossway fabric upholstery with red outline while there are orange highlights on the climber range as before.
3. There are certain elements to make it look a bit upmarket like the leather wrapped steering wheel, new design for the instrument cluster which looks fancy, piano black touches on the central console and it also gets Kwid lettering embedded on the passenger side of the dashboard.
4. The boot space at 279 litres remains unchanged and it can be expandable up to 620 litres.
5. The 7-inch unit on the pre-facelift Kwid has been replaced by a bigger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which is equipped with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Video Playback and Voice Recognition.
6. The new model has also seen addition of some new features like fast-charging USB port with a power output of 2.4A and a 12V outlet at the rear.
7. Renault had recently given the pre-facelift Kwid a mild feature update which saw additions like a parking camera and sensors and needless to say, they have made their way in the new model as well.
8. Mechanically, the new Kwid Facelift remains identical to its predecessor. It gets the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine makes 67 bhp at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 91 Nm at 4250 rpm. The 799 cc, three-cylinder engine makes 53 bhp at 5678 rpm and a peak torque of 72 Nm at 4368 rpm. Both engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard while AMT is optional.
9. The Renault Kwid gets all the essential safety equipment on board, at least almost all that are needed to meet the upcoming safety regulations. Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (ABS with EBD), Driver airbag and Driver & Co Driver Seat belt reminder, speed alert are standard on the 2019 Kwid. Driver side airbag is standard as well on the Kwid while passenger side airbag is optional.

To test drive the Renault Kwid - simply book a test drive at Group 1 Renault’s digital showroom!


Article source: https://www.carandbike.com/news/2019-renault-kwid-all-you-need-to-know-2113501

The Renault Koleos has serious va-va-voom

Buoyed by the success of the highly-popular Duster, Renault is now offering another value-for-money option for SUV-mad South Africans.

By re-introducing the Renault Koleos at the top of their SUV tree, the French manufacturer is hoping to snatch more market share away from its competitors.

And after initially deciding against offering the 2016-launched second-generation Koleos to South Africa, Renault is bringing back the model … with a bang.

Not only does the all-new Koleos boast a competitive price at Group 1 Renault, but it’s also very spacious, comfortable, well-specced and capable off-road too.

To keep the price down, Renault SA has only introduced one engine option, a 2.5-litre CVT with a power output of 126kW and 233Nm of torque.

There will be two Renault Koleos trim options available, Expression and Dynamique, with a 4×4 model topping the range.

According to Wayne van der Merwe, Renault SA’s senior product manager, a diesel engine and other transmission options would not have been financially viable.

“To be able to offer a 4×4 at under R500 000 is a great achievement for us,” says Van der Merwe.
“The new Koleos is a big car that displays social positioning of the driver. Rounded off by the double exhaust design at the back, it’s an expression of power.”

Looks are certainly something the Koleos gets right. Upfront, the eye-catching C-shaped Daytime Running Lights extends beyond the headlight units themselves to create an even more forceful gaze and at the back, the wide horizontal tail lights amplify the impression of width and draw attention to the centrally-positioned Renault diamond.

A very stylish interior features creature comforts like customisable LED cabin lighting to complement the mood of the driver and/ or passengers, front cup holders that can be chilled or heated and a sliding centre console for the ideal driving position.

In addition to having one of the longest wheelbases in its class, the Koleos’ wheelbase of 2 710mm and overall length of 4 670mm frees up record roominess for all occupants.

Rear passengers benefit from class-topping knee room (289mm) while there is also 464 litres of space in the boot which can grow to an impressive 1 795 litres with the rear seats folded down. Boasting a Euro NCAP five-star rating, all Koleos models come standard with brakes assisted by ABS, EBD, EBA, ESP, ASR and HAS, cornering fog lights, electrochromic rear-view mirror, blind-spot warning and park assist.

Driving the Koleos through torrential rain on the N4 towards Rustenburg was a pleasant experience as the car handled itself extremely well on the road while being equally impressive on wet gravel and dirt roads around Muldersdrift and Magaliesburg.

Although I’d be careful pushing it through technical terrain all out 4x4s are comfortable on, the car boasts an impressive ground clearance of 210mm and is definitely a cut above a mere “soft-roader”.
The 4×4 model features three driving modes, two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive automatic and wheel-drive lock.

In the latter, available torque is equally between the front and rear axles (50/50) when the vehicle travels below speeds of 40km/h.

The new Koleos comes standard with a fiveyear/150 000km mechanical warranty; plus a five-year/90 000km service plan and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty, with service intervals at 15 000km.
Anybody shopping around in the D segment would be foolish not to at least give the Koleos a good look in.

In Latin, Koleos means “testicle” and this offering surely possesses a pair of those.

Article from Bonjour Renault.

2020 Renault Clio is all grown up

When it debuted 30 years ago Renault Clio was marketed with a cheeky, slightly risqué charm – now it’s back for its fifth generation, all grown up.  

The Renault Clio is 30 years old. As one of the better-known small car model names at Group 1 Renault, the Clio has evolved with the times, from ultra-lightweight supermini through to the chunky, solidly engineered small family car it is today. The new design was unveiled at the start of 2019 and has now been rolled out around the world’s markets.

The Clio is a major player, the third best-selling car in Europe, holding back the horde of SUVs together with VW’s Golf and Polo. Right now, however, traditional carmakers are arriving at a fork in the road - should they venture into electrification with an entirely new model or is it better to transform a decades-old brand name into an EV? The most common strategy is to hedge one’s bets. Without the clean slate approach open to Tesla and its ilk, existing manufacturers have to deal with long model cycles, entrenched brand equity and cautious customers. BMW invested big with its ‘i’ sub-brand, only to appear to pull back from the commitment and choosing the path of electrifying existing models. As a result, it’s taken eight whole years to advance from the i3 to the forthcoming BMW i4.

Renault also runs a mix and match strategy, blending hybrid models, pure EVs (the acclaimed ZOE, the eclectic two-seater TWIZY and a pair of commercial EVs for business use) with conventionally powered cars, including a number of diesels. For now, the Clio is in the latter category, a classic example of the motor industry’s slow but steady technological evolution. Compare the new car to the original Clio that proved so desirable three decades ago, and it practically resembles a luxury vehicle, with a level of fixtures and fittings that were simply unavailable in the spartan, plastic-clad 1990s. 

But everything is bigger these days. Clio Mark Five has grown in size as well as ambition. It has a big badge and the image of the Clio as a cheeky, compact upstart has all but evaporated, even though this new car is still good fun to drive and own. It handles deftly and is still well within the realms of compact, and the on-board equipment works without feeling fussy or intrusive. 

The next-gen Clio will almost certainly have an electric option as Renault applies its EV experience to more and more models. The company is also rolling out a new style ‘Renault City’ concept store in Europe, hoping to create an Apple Store-style physical connection with its buying public. Recent concepts have highlighted a proposed shift to autonomous driving, focusing on a strong connection between mobility and architecture. In amongst all this massive change, the Clio feels a bit like a blast from the past, a traditional car in a rapidly evolving industry. Renault would be crazy not to let the Clio name live on and evolve for a more electrified world. It’s a personable car with a hard-won allure, something that is increasingly hard to create from scratch. 

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Article from https://www.wallpaper.com/transport/renault-clio-30-years-old-back-and-all-grown-up

Renault Captur Compact SUV gets bigger and better

When Renault launched the Captur in 2012 it didn’t have to try too hard because until then, nobody had even thought of making a compact crossover.

Today its ‘B-SUV’ as the trade now calls this type of car, has more than 20 rivals including the T-Cross from Volkswagen. The new Captur had better be good then.

For now, it comes with a choice of petrol and diesel engines – but early next year a plug-in hybrid version will also be available. That powertrain features some very clever technology including a novel gearbox. The engine likely to be most popular with buyers is the 1.0-litre 99bhp three-cylinder petrol.

There will be three trim levels rising from Play, to Iconic, then the S-Edition as the poshest. Our next-door neighbours have a Renault Captur, so it’s a daily sight for me. This version looks fresher and up to date. Also, when you compare it to most of its opposition, its design flair certainly sets it apart. But the real leap forward comes inside. The dash is essentially the same as the one in the new Clio, and that’s a good thing.

Those coming out of the old car into this one will delight in the palpable improvement in the quality of materials. Almost all surfaces are soft and there’s the option of an orange interior pack. Shame you can only order it on the S-Edition model. Also only available on the top-level version is a 10in digital instrument cluster.

The standard infotainment screen is 7 inches, but you can order a 9.3in portrait-format screen as an option. It’s impressive, easy to use and has excellent graphics.

The other eye-catching feature is the ‘floating’ centre console on which the gear lever on our six-speed manual test car sits. Ahead of it is a wireless charging plate for your phone, and underneath it a storage area. With a new platform comes new vital ­statistics. The Captur is 110mm longer, 19mm wider and 17mm taller than it used to be.

The old car was hardly cramped, but there’s even more legroom in the new one. The rear seats slide back and forward over a 160mm range and the luggage area holds an impressive 536 litres if you’ve slid the rear seats as far forward as they’ll go. Go for maximum legroom and you’ll still have a useful 422 litres of load space.

Not only is the Captur’s new body bigger, it’s stiffer.

On the road this is obvious in a car that feels more robust, is quieter and more insulated from engine, tyre and wind noise.

If you’re looking for a fun car to drive, you’re looking in the wrong place – but the Captur has light steering, is surefooted in corners, has minimal body roll and ­acceptable ride comfort.

Our test car has 18in wheels, but I suspect the 17in rims fitted to the TCe100 will give a better ride. The 128bhp engine in this is more than powerful enough. The lower-powered unit might struggle with a full load of people and luggage, but most of the time it’ll be more than adequate.

The top-selling VW T-Cross is reckoned by most critics to be the best of the bunch in the packed world of compact crossovers.

It’s very competent but I found it dull to look at, inside and out.

My money would go on this more distinctive and interesting, and equally able, 2020 Captur from Group 1 Renault.

Article source: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-captur-compact-suv-gets-bigger-and-better

Renault Duster TechRoad is practical, frugal and well priced

In a nutshell, you could say that the latest version of Renault’s Duster has been to ‘finishing school’, but it hasn’t forgotten what it is.

The first generation Duster was conceived as an affordable SUV for the masses. No fancy trimmings or finishes, just plain old good value. With the second generation, released in late 2018, Renault gave it a more eye-catching design as well as a smarter look and feel inside, but without impacting on affordability. To this day it offers plenty of metal for the money. 

Recently Renault added a little more polish to the Duster with the introduction of the TechRoad model grade, which replaced the 4x2 Dynamique derivatives. We recently spent some quality time with the EDC version of the TechRoad, with Renault having lent it to us over the December holiday period. Needless to say, a road trip to the KZN coast was in order.

It must be said that the Renault Duster is sensibly sized for a family vehicle. It’s small enough to be efficient and easily manoeuvrable, yet large enough to cope with holiday luggage. The boot is particularly vast and feels much bigger than the claimed load volume of 478 litres suggests, and rear legroom should prove adequate for most occupants.

I was also impressed by the new seat trim that’s fitted exclusively to the TechRoad models. It’s a dark and durable cloth with red and grey accents that lift the ambience of the cabin. For the record, this version is also set apart by red trim on the air vents, centre console and inner door panels. 

On the outside, the Techroad distinguishes itself with diamond-cut 17-inch alloy wheels, complete with red centre caps, as well as gloss black side mirrors with red stripes. The Duster is, in my humble opinion, a good looking vehicle by modern SUV standards and these changes make it all the more appealing.

Impressive economy

Both versions of the Techroad are fitted with Renault’s 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesel engine, the difference being that in the manual version the outputs are 66kW and 210Nm, while the EDC auto model is blessed with 80kW and 250Nm.

The little diesel unit makes the Duster much more economical than you’d expect from a vehicle of this size, and our car averaged 5.2 litres per 100km on the 1200km round trip, with the trip meter recording 4.8 l/100km on the downward half of the journey and 5.6 l/100km on the 'great climb' back to Joburg.

The performance was decent in most situations and will certainly be acceptable for the average owner. 

The EDC version is fitted with Renault’s six-speed EDC dual-clutch gearbox. Most of the time it gets on with its job unobtrusively. Personally I feel that a simpler torque converter auto box would have worked better in this vehicle as dual-clutch gearboxes are complex and if luck isn't on your side it could be costly to repair when the vehicle gets older, although if you’re buying new then there should be little to worry about as the Duster comes with a five-year/150 000km warranty. 

We subjected the Duster to a variety of road surfaces and its suspension delivered a comfortable ride, and the vehicle also felt reasonably stable through the bends. 

When it comes to road and engine noise, however, the Duster is not as whisper-quiet as many of the modern SUVs on the market these days, particularly those from South Korea, but that certainly wouldn’t be a deal-breaker for me if I was in the market for one, and here we should also keep in mind that the Duster is somewhat cheaper than most other vehicles of a similar size. 

All in all, though, it got us to our destinations comfortably and efficiently, and it had me questioning why many people choose to spend so much more money on the more premium SUVs on the market.

In terms of features, the Duster Techroad ticks most of the boxes, with standard kit including cruise control, single-zone automatic climate control and a touchscreen infotainment system with integrated satnav, reverse camera as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 

VERDICT

If you’re looking for a reasonably sized SUV for the price of a smaller one, the Duster gives you lots of metal for the money, while the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine provides acceptable performance and excellent fuel economy. You're essentially getting something almost as big as a C-segment SUV, in the lower end of the B-segment price range. 

The Duster is a comfortable vehicle too and it looks like an SUV should look. Most models are 4x2s, but if you want to go off-roading, there is also a 4x4 version on offer, albeit with a manual gearbox only. 

All considered, the Duster range offers excellent value for money and it worth keeping at the top of your list if you’re looking for a family-sized vehicle. Test drive a new Duster at Group 1 Renault if you would like to experience it first hand.

Article source: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-duster-techroad-is-practical-frugal-and-well-priced