Renault Captur VS XM3
Renault's flagship model, the Captur, has dominated the European compact SUV market, securing the top sales position for six consecutive years. The domestic launch event is currently taking place at The-K Hotel over two days.
Isn't the design beautiful?
The Captur is the successor to the QM3 and has played a significant role alongside the Tivoli in leading the domestic small SUV market. While it may seem a bit odd due to its similar size to the recently launched XM3, it is indeed the younger sibling when considering vehicle size and classification.
Although they may not be twins, you could think of it as an illegitimate child born less than a year apart in terms of hierarchy. The Captur was born in France, while the XM3 was born in South Korea at Renault Samsung.
Interestingly, the Captur is priced higher than the XM3. Although the difference is minor, it includes a variety of convenience options as standard, which makes it understandable given its status as an imported vehicle.
* Captur price - From 24,130,000 KRW (approximately $18,000) to 27,480,000 KRW (approximately $20,700)
* XM3 price - From 17,190,000 KRW (approximately $13,000) to 25,320,000 KRW (approximately $19,000)
Can you tell which is the XM3 and which is the Captur? 
In a future test drive review, I will delve into the differences between the XM3 and the Captur. It’s not much different from deciding between a BMW X5 and an X6, right? The choice will likely come down to personal design preferences!
Renault Captur Launch
The launch event adopts a somewhat unique approach. Attendees wear masks in compliance with social distancing guidelines, and the spacing between parked vehicles stands out.
It feels like watching a movie in a drive-in theater, as the new car presentation is set up inside the Captur.
The official event name is Drive-in Theater where attendees listen to the audio through the car's radio frequency while watching on the screen.
The presentation includes an explanation of Renault, which ranks second in overall sales in Europe, particularly in the B and C segments.
The second-generation Captur features a complete redesign, utilizing the latest platform. It has grown in length and width by 105 mm and 20 mm respectively compared to its predecessor, providing the largest second-row legroom in its class.
It certainly offers ample space for a small SUV, comparable to that of many compact sedans. The bright beige seats enhance the visual effect of spaciousness.
During the launch event, I was assigned a vehicle featuring the "Edition Paris" exclusive gray interior with bright leather seats. The seating comfort was good, and the luxurious feel left me quite satisfied.
The gear shift, floating in mid-air, resembles a small spaceship lever, adding to the stunning interior design of the Renault Captur.
I apologize to those who have already purchased the XM3, but the Captur boasts details that are simply incomparable. While it will soon launch in Korea, I first experienced that exact shift lever in the electric Zoe during my trip to Sardinia last year.
Just to clarify, right? Mr. Bangsil! Haha
To elaborate further on the Renault Captur, its unique two-tone roof and tail lamp design effectively convey the distinctive French flair, much like the QM3. While the photos show it well, its presence becomes even more pronounced on the road.
Just like this!
The Captur has undergone a transformation that makes it far more stylish compared to its predecessor. While the QM3 had a feminine and cute image, the Captur embodies a playful masculinity.
The 18-inch floral-pattern wheels, identical to those on the XM3, contribute to the feeling that they are indeed twin cars.
The Captur, with its deep amethyst-black body and white roof, presents a very sophisticated image. It hardly feels small at all... In fact, it can stand side by side with many compact SUVs!
The color that stands out the least is the X color... haha
(The exact color name is Atacama Orange + Black Roof)
Hello from Paris, France...
Not quite, it’s at The-K Hotel in Yangjae-dong!
Drive safely~~
Renault Captur Test Drive
To be honest, using the term "test drive" after the launch event feels a bit off, so it might be better to just share my first impressions instead. A separate test drive opportunity will likely arise soon.
The rear view of the Captur on the road is undeniably sexy. While the sporty coupe shape of the XM3 exudes familiarity, the Captur feels entirely different.
Everything feels new.
The only resemblance to the QM3 is the two-tone roof.
And it was fast!
I’m not sure, but even though it shares the same powertrain as the XM3, the Captur surprised me with its quick response, almost spinning the wheels in sport mode. Is this diesel or gasoline? Is it a 2.0 turbo?
The RPM gauge goes up to 8000, indicating it’s definitely a gasoline model. Since only two trims are available in Korea, it must be the TCE260 equipped with a 1.3-liter gasoline turbo and a 7-speed wet DCT transmission.
Of course, on the highway, whether in normal or sport mode, there are limitations to the engine's displacement, making it difficult to exceed certain speeds.
