SPY PICS: Renault planning a Grand Captur

Something is afoot with Renault's Captur crossover and these recently-snapped Automedia spy photos indicate an extended version, possibly featuring third-row seating, is on the way.

Although the heavily swaddled test mule provides only clues to what lies underneath, it appears the maxi-Captur has a significantly longer wheelbase (by around 50mm). The production Captur measures 2606mm. From the pics it appears that the extra length in the wheelbase has been used to extend the entire C-pillar area. It's difficult to be certain, but the rear doors don't seem to have grown at all.

The end result looks to be a proper-size third side window throwing light into the extended area that could well contain a third row of seats.

Otherwise the stretched Captur looks to continue with the same styling themes as the current shorter-wheelbase version including the grille/headlights, although with an externally and internally facelifted model expected to appear some time during 2016 there's a chance some work will be done on the frontal lower bumper area.

The rear end also looks similar, right down to the inbuilt rear window spoiler and the tail lights, although there's a strong probability the 2016 Captur – short and long wheelbase – will get a new bumper arrangement to complement any front-end revisions.

Also notable in the spy photos is the jacked-up ride height that could indicate anything – except an all-wheel drive version. The Captur is built off the Renault Clio platform, and that is strictly front-drive only.

The driveline therefore could be expected to replicate that of the current version which, in Australia, offers the choice of two turbo-petrol engines: a 66kW/135Nm 1.0-litre three-cylinder or an 89kW/190Nm 1.2-litre four-cylinder. A diesel variant offered in other markets is not currently available here.