Renault Captur – In-depth Review, Prices and Hybrid Verdict

The Renault Captur has carved out a strong position in the UK’s competitive small SUV market. It combines striking French design with genuine practicality, including a clever sliding rear bench seat. For 2025, the line-up centres on two powertrains: a frugal 1.0-litre petrol and an impressively efficient full hybrid. While the hybrid commands a higher price and sacrifices some boot space, its fuel economy makes it a compelling choice for cost-conscious drivers.

UK reviewers broadly agree that the Captur delivers strong value, low running costs, and a well-equipped cabin. The 2024 facelift updated the looks and infotainment, keeping it competitive against the Peugeot 2008, Ford Puma, and Nissan Juke. But how does it stack up on the details that matter most to buyers? This guide breaks down the price, hybrid performance, boot space, reliability, and more.

How much does a Renault Captur cost in the UK?

UK pricing for the 2025 Renault Captur starts from around £21,655 for the entry-level petrol model. Depending on the source, trim, and date of the review, the range-topping versions reach approximately £29,395. The mid-range Techno trim typically sits near the £24,000 mark.

The trim structure is straightforward. The range is commonly described as Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine. The hybrid is several thousand pounds more expensive than the equivalent petrol model, a premium that can be offset by lower fuel bills for high-mileage drivers.

• The Renault Captur is one of the best‑value small SUVs in the UK, offering a style‑led design and a spacious interior.
• The full hybrid E‑Tech version delivers impressive fuel economy for urban and mixed driving, though motorway efficiency is less outstanding.
• Boot space is class‑leading among subcompact SUVs, beating rivals like the Peugeot 2008 and Ford Puma.
• The Captur received a facelift in 2024, bringing updated styling and improved infotainment (OpenR Link with Google integration).
• Reliability ratings are average; the car scores well in Euro NCAP (5 stars) but some owners report electrical glitches.

What is the Renault Captur hybrid like?

The Captur’s full hybrid, badged E-Tech, is the headline act. It pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a multi-mode automatic gearbox. Sources differ slightly because Renault updated the system, but reviews cite either 145PS/143bhp for the earlier version or 160hp for the later E-Tech full hybrid 160.

Fuel economy and real-world mpg

Official WLTP figures are impressive. The petrol model is quoted at roughly 48.7–49.6mpg, while the hybrid achieves about 60.1–65.7mpg. In real-world driving, especially in urban stop-start traffic, the hybrid can get close to those numbers, but motorway cruising reduces the gap. The hybrid’s ability to run on electric power at low speeds is a clear advantage in towns.

Performance and driving feel

Performance figures vary depending on the hybrid version. The 0–62mph sprint is quoted at around 10.6 seconds in one review and 9.6 seconds in another, reflecting the updated hybrid powertrain. The automatic transmission is a multi-mode unit that can feel a little unrefined under hard acceleration, but it smooths out in normal driving. CAR Magazine calls the Captur an “excellent small SUV” and highlights the hybrid’s economy and usable real-world performance.

Is the full hybrid worth the extra cost?

The hybrid version costs several thousand pounds more than the petrol model. It becomes worthwhile for drivers who cover higher annual mileage, particularly in urban areas where the hybrid system delivers its best returns. Lower company car Benefit-in-Kind tax rates on the hybrid also tip the scales for business users.

What are the Renault Captur’s design, colors, and boot space?

Interior quality and passenger space

The cabin received a major upgrade with the 2024 facelift. The new OpenR Link system features a 10.4-inch portrait touchscreen with Google-based apps. It is more responsive than the system it replaced and puts the Captur ahead of many rivals in infotainment terms. The sliding rear bench is a unique selling point; it slides 160mm, allowing you to prioritise rear legroom or boot space. Rear passenger space is good for the class, though three adults across the back is a squeeze.

Boot space: a key differentiator

Boot capacity is one of the Captur’s key selling points because of that sliding rear bench. With the bench in its rearmost position, the load area is generous for a small SUV. However, the hybrid’s boot is notably smaller than the petrol’s because the battery is housed under the floor. Honest John says the petrol load area expands from 487 to 616 litres depending on bench position, but the E-Tech full hybrid loses 136 litres versus the petrol version. Renault’s own figures confirm the difference: a VDA measure of 536 litres for the petrol and 440 litres for the hybrid.

Available colors

The full official UK colour palette is not consistently detailed across review sources. One tested example mentioned is Iron blue with diamond black roof metallic paint. Colour availability may differ by trim level, and some special shades can be discontinued mid-year. Buyers should check the latest configurator on the Renault UK site for the most up-to-date options.

How does the Renault Captur drive?

Engine options and transmissions

The UK 2025 line-up offers two main choices: a 1.0-litre turbo petrol (TCe 90) and the full hybrid. The petrol comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the hybrid uses a multi-mode automatic transmission. There is no plug-in hybrid option, as it was discontinued in the UK in 2022.

Motorway and town driving

The hybrid works best in town, where the electric motor handles low-speed stop-start driving and parking. On the motorway, the Captur is comfortable and stable, but the petrol engine can feel a little coarse under hard acceleration. The ride is generally supple, though the RAC notes that ride and handling scores are slightly weaker than usability and running costs.

Is the automatic transmission good?

The hybrid’s automatic is a clever multi-mode unit with no conventional clutch. It can feel hesitant at low speeds or when shifting between electric and petrol power. Once on the move, it smooths out and works well. For drivers who want a conventional automatic, the petrol engine is only available with a manual, so the hybrid is the sole automatic option.

How does the Renault Captur compare to rivals?

The Captur sits in a fiercely competitive segment alongside the Peugeot 2008, Ford Puma, Nissan Juke, and Volkswagen T-Cross.

• vs Peugeot 2008: The Captur has a larger boot and better hybrid mpg. The 2008 offers sharper handling and a more premium interior feel.
• vs Ford Puma: The Puma provides a more engaging driving experience and similar boot space with its clever Megabox. The Captur wins on hybrid efficiency and the configurable sliding rear seat.
• vs Nissan Juke: The Juke has bolder, more polarising styling and a slightly stronger reliability record in some studies. The Captur delivers more rear legroom and a significantly bigger boot.

The RAC says the Captur undercuts rivals on price and offers low running costs. Its key strengths are value, practicality, and hybrid efficiency. The trade-offs are a smaller hybrid boot and that some competitors offer more performance or a lower entry price.

Is the Renault Captur reliable and cheap to run?

Reliability and common problems

Reliability data is mixed. Cazoo notes that Captur reliability in the Power 2019 UK Vehicle Dependability Study was just below the industry average. Common reported issues include infotainment lag or screen glitches, occasional rattles from the interior trim, and rare hybrid system warnings. The five-year, 100,000-mile warranty improves ownership confidence even if it does not itself prove reliability. Honest John’s long-term test material does not present the Captur as especially troublesome.

Warranty and running costs

Renault offers a five-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the Captur, which covers the hybrid battery. Insurance groups range from 13 to 18 out of 50, with the hybrid typically falling in groups 15–17. Premiums are competitive for the segment. Servicing costs are not explicitly covered in the sources, but the long warranty period should reduce unexpected repair bills.

Renault Captur Evolution: Key Milestones

Understanding the Captur’s history helps buyers distinguish between used models and the latest 2025 version.

1. 2013: First generation launched at Geneva Motor Show, based on the Renault Clio platform.
2. 2017: Minor facelift with updated headlights, grille, and new engine options.
3. 2019: Second generation launched on the new CMF-B platform, more SUV-like stance, bigger boot, and first hybrid (E-Tech) introduced in 2020.
4. 2022: Plug-in hybrid version discontinued in the UK; full hybrid becomes the core electrified option.
5. 2024: Major facelift: new front end design, larger grille, redesigned LED lights, updated dashboard with OpenR Link 10.4-inch screen, new trim structure (Evolution, Techno, Iconic).
6. 2025: Current model year. Continues with Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine trims. Full hybrid remains the exclusive automatic option.

What we know and what remains unclear about the Captur

What the critics and manufacturer say

“The Renault Captur is one of the small SUVs to beat, thanks to low running costs and plenty of style.”

— Carbuyer.co.uk (2025 review)

“Renault Captur is a handsome little SUV with great infotainment, one of the best small SUVs if you want style, space and value.”

— Carwow.co.uk (2026 review)

“A compact family car with assertive styling, Renault Captur full hybrid E‑Tech … 160 hp powertrain.”

— Renault UK product page (2025)

Is the Renault Captur the right small SUV for you?

The 2025 Renault Captur is a strong all-rounder that excels on value, practicality, and hybrid efficiency. The petrol model is the budget-friendly choice with a class-leading boot, while the hybrid is the best pick for urban drivers looking to minimise fuel costs. The 2024 facelift modernised the interior and infotainment, fixing one of the model’s previous weaknesses. If you can live with the hybrid’s smaller boot or prefer the petrol’s space, the Captur deserves a place on your test-drive shortlist. For those looking for home improvement inspiration, you might also find our guide to Shower Head – Types, Choice & Installation for UK Homes useful.

Frequently asked questions

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