Can a Renault Captur facelift give new energy to the crossover’s sales in India?

The emerging markets specification Renault Captur (Renault Kaptur) introduced in early 2016, could receive a facelift sometime during 2019. IAB’s automotive illustrator Shoeb Kalania has created a rendering to preview the facelift.

Inspired by the Renault Arkana concept, the aggression levelled up by the sleeker LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs flowing onto the redesigned bumper makes the crossover more dominating. Also new is the chrome-studded radiator grille and the lower grille with similar styling.

The profile stays as is, save for new diamond-cut alloy wheels. Changes at the rear may include a redesigned bumper and tweaked Ripple tail lamps. The interior is a letdown of the Captur, and Renault may introduce new trim/upholstery options, revised instrument cluster with a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

The current Renault Captur is available to India with the 1.5-litre H4K petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and the 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine linked to a 6-speed manual transmission. Renault may introduce petrol engine-exclusive CVT option with the facelift. To recap, the naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 106 PS and 142 Nm of torque, while the turbocharged diesel engine delivers 110 PS and 240 Nm of torque.

Also Read: Renault Captur's stock clearance discount increases to INR 2 lakh

The Captur was launched in India last November, and it has failed to make its presence felt in its segment. If it continues underperforming, Renault may have to roll out the facelifted model earlier than originally planned.