Renault set to Captur hearts in Geneva

As Renault's 2009 Frankfurt concept DeZir coupe was said to express 'falling in love', CAPTUR will address the next stage in life's journey, that of two people exploring the world around them.

"CAPTUR is a fun and sporty crossover, ideal for a young couple about to discover the world," explains Renault's design director, Laurens Van der Acker.

"It takes as its basis the fundamental design language introduced on the DeZir concept car but adds a more technical dimension -- more functional but still slightly sensuous."

With muscular yet fluid proportions CAPTUR's "G Studio" designed body is said to evoke 'movement and lightness' while at the same time possessing capable all-terrain cues.

As with DeZir, all of CAPTUR's angles, lines and corners take on natural forms with the main source of inspiration said to be athletes in radical sports. At the front, CAPTUR features a large Renault logo as its centrepiece which is set vertically against a dark surface said to emphasise its identity.

A practical and versatile vehicle, CAPTUR is fitted with a removable hard top allowing an easy transformation from coupe to convertible. In profile, CAPTUR features butterfly doors and large Michelin tyres fitted on 22-inch black and white rims. The show vehicle is finished in a 'spicy shade of orange'.

The orange theme is continued in CAPTUR's modern cabin where fluorescent highlights, inspired by the human body, contour with an outdoor sports and urban theme. Renault hopes this expressive and light decor will feel welcoming and 'occupant friendly'.

Among CAPTUR's list of 'non-superfluous equipment' are aluminium pedals, carbon fibre seats and a steering wheel trimmed in textured grey leather. The cargo bay houses a multipurpose are where three layers of rope provide a reconfigurable storage area.

Green where it counts, the Renault CAPTUR concept is powered by a twin-trubocharged 'Energy dCi 160' engine but is also ready for full electrification. The current powerplant produces 118kW/380Nm from its 1.6-litre capacity when paired to a dual-clutch EDC transmission. Renault claims CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km.

The 1300kg CAPTUR is capable of accelerating from rest to 100km/h in eight seconds.

To improve traction at low speeds, CAPTUR is enhanced by Renault's new RX2 drive system that splits torque to either or both front wheels via a mechanical self-locking differential to optimise traction to where it can best yield results.

A forward-facing camera known as Visio-system provides the driver with a number of assistance functions via a series of synthesised images on the head-up display. Renault says this system is designed to enhance the driver's perception of the external world and reduce driver stress.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site