Renault has revealed a new RS Line version of its fresh-faced Captur, with the crossover gaining “exclusive attributes inspired by the world of motorsports”.

Unveiled in July 2019 and expected to launch in South Africa in the second half of 2021, the second-generation Captur range in Europe now includes the new RS Line option. It’s not yet clear whether this trim level will be available locally.

So, what sets the newcomer apart from standard models, apart from the “RS Line” badge affixed to its rump? Well, the upgrades are purely cosmetic, comprising a sportier front bumper (complete with the French firm’s so-called “F1 blade”), a honeycomb grille, a faux-diffuser round back, window tints, chrome-trimmed tailpipes and 18-inch “Le Castellet” alloy wheels.

Inside, the Captur RS Line gains model-specific red highlights on the upholstery plus red-and-grey stitching on the perforated-leather-trimmed steering wheel. There are also aluminium door-sill plates as well as a red accent line (with a carbon-like finish) stretching across the facia through the air vents.

As mentioned, the RS Line upgrade does not include any performance tweaks. In Europe, that means engine options still include a turbocharged 1,0-litre, three-cylinder unit offering 74 kW and 160 N.m, as well as a 1,3-litre powerplant generating 96 kW and 240 N.m in lower-spec models and 114 kW and 270 N.m in flagship variants.

Renault has also updated its 1,5-litre dCi engine, which is offered in 70 kW/240 N.m guise (with a six-speed manual) and 85 kW/260 N.m form (with the option of the seven-speed dual-clutch unit). Hybrid powertrains are also in the pipeline.

Source: https://www.carmag.co.za/