Reviews

Designed in the same spirit which continues to prove so popular with Renault Mégane buyers, the New Clio GT-Line is powered up and ready to boost Clio’s already extensive South African fan base. Developed using the same build platform as that of the much-loved and highly acclaimed Clio and launched in response to demand by Clio customers looking for a distinctive look and feel, the inclusion of a number of bold features and fitments have successfully given the GT-Line a sporty stance setting it apart from its Clio peers. The addition of the Overboost function nestling under the bonnet serves to power up the performance of Clio’s already impressive F1-inspired Energy 66kW Turbo engine giving the GT-Line a proven and powerful edge. Mirroring several of the proven and popular design elements débuted at the Renault Mégane GT-Line launch, these have been adapted for and carried over to its Clio sibling, further enhancing its status as a pillar model of the Renault range worldwide. In short, the introduction of the New Renault Clio GT-Line to South Africa – an absolute no brainer! UPGRADED ENGINE: now with Overboost function With the increasing market shift towards engine downsizing for economy and ecological reasons alike, with the launch of Clio, Renault broke ground with the introduction of its 66kW Turbo engine and Stop/Start technology (zero emission, zero consumption when stationary plus fast restart). While the Clio GT-Line is equipped with the F1-inspired 900cc 66kW Turbo engine found in the Clio Expression and Dynamique variants, thanks to the inclusion of the overboost function, it packs added punch squeezing out an additional 4kW and 15Nm in 2^ndand 3^rd gears for up to 20 seconds respectively and pushing peak power output to 70kW @ 5 250 rpm and 150Nm torque @ 2 500 rpm. Renault’s focus on the advancement of engine technology is keen and its Turbo Control Efficiency engine line-up is a direct result of Renault’s F1 technology transfer prowess and capabilities. The company is, however, committed to making strategic and commercial choices that favour ecological balance. While the performance and practicality of its 66kW Turbo engine with overboost is powerful, the reduction in fuel consumption (4.5 litres/100km in NEDC Combined Cycle) and CO² emissions (105g/km) is significant. F1 TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER That engine downsizing is the way forward is undisputed … and this has been demonstrated on the F1 stage where performance, fuel efficiency, quality and reliability are tested to their limits. Renault is a pioneering force in this field and the tools and talents used by its skilled engineers to develop smaller, lighter and more fuel efficient engines for F1 are exactly the same as those used to develop new technology power plants for production car engines. Key F1 engine features that have been successfully transferred to Renault’s road cars include:

• Turbo technology: Renault was the first manufacturer to introduce Turbo to F1 in 1977. Reduction in size does not mean reduction in power and results in smaller engines that weigh less.

• High tumble strategy: Better combustion efficiency which delivers more power per drop of fuel.

• Low inertia turbo: Provides quick response at low engine revs affordingbetter reactivity, acceleration and responsiveness resulting in enhanced driving pleasure.

• Diamond-like carbon coatings and graphite-coated piston skirts: These are high-tech surface treatments with low friction coefficients that increase resistance and decrease energy wastage by 20%.

SPORTY DESIGN, SEDUCTIVE STYLING: inside and out “So gorgeous, it makes you want to eat it,” … Laurens van der Acker, head designer at Renault. Style by design, Clio GT-Line is the embodiment of Renault’s new design rebirth which is distinctive, sensuous and seductive. Three words which, thanks to the Renault engineering team’s skill in matching the vehicle to the design team’s original vision, make it a car high on emotion inside and out. Plus, there’s a selection of hot body colours to choose from including the exclusive Malta Blue body colour for the GT-Line. Front-end styling features the Renault’s bold diamond-shaped logo upright on the radiator grille and set against a gloss black background.  Thanks to styling made more distinctive still by headlight units that boast chrome detail and LED daytime running lights incorporated into the specifically sporty-styled GT front bumper, Clio GT-Line’s sleek, sporty silhouette is instantly recognisable. While the exterior styling suggests three-door coupé, Clio GT-Line has five doors with the rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights. Modern, welcoming and ergonomic on the inside, the on-board look, feel and experience is as important as GT-Line’s exterior good looks. With a dashboard sculpted to resemble an aircraft wing, once seated and with the controls at hand, one has the sensation of being in an aeroplane cockpit. Designed to complement the exterior styling and with finely appointed details throughout the cabin, Clio GT-Line’s stylish yet sporty interior inspires strength and confidence while combining beauty with functionality. The Clio GT-Line comes kitted out with plush, high-tech materials and the combination of the glossy black and chrome detail serves to underpin the interior’s impressive good looks. Well-proportioned and warmly styled, inside and out, makes Clio GT-Line the kind of car that one wants to get up close and personal with. SMART TECHNOLOGIES: current and easy-to-use An integrated and intuitive multimedia system inclusive of navigation, MediaNav®is practical, simple and super smart. With its high-end entertainment and communications console and a host of value-add features including radio, media (connections for portable music devices), hands-free telephony (thanks to Bluetooth® connectivity) plus navigation, quick access to all the settings via the 18cm touch screen is just a fingertip away. The Clio GT-Line is also equipped with a new smart sound system integrated into the front doors’ loudspeakers. Known as Renault Bass Reflex, this system delivers the volume and listening enjoyment of a 30-litre home speaker enclosure. Occupants are sure to appreciate this technology which delivers more powerful bass frequencies, while at the same time pushing back saturation and distortion thresholds. The system is based on the use of vents or ports in the enclosure and its application is a world first for the automotive industry. MediaNav® israted as the most attractive on-board touchscreen navigation system on the market. With just one touch, one is able to customize the 2D or 3D Birdview map display and activate voice guidance. Whether entering an address or updating maps, the system is simple and intuitive. Thanks to Bluetooth® connectivity, enjoy music on the move by connecting to the dash-mounted USB or jack sockets, make and receive calls hands-free, consult your phone book or look up your call history. Combining simplicity with a host of value-add features, MediaNav® has proven itself to be comprehensive, smart, straight-forward and reliable. It’s a 21^st century product designed in keeping with the spirit of providing customers with ‘equipment they really need’ and the menu page provides easy access to six essential functions: radio, media, telephony, map, navigation and settings. Take the equipment level in the Clio Dynamique and just keep on adding … Value-add fitments to the new Clio GT-Line include:

• GT design front bumpers incorporating daytime running LED lights
• GT design rear bumper with F1 inspired rear diffuser in dark metal
• GT-Line badging on the tailgate
• GT design 17-inch alloys
• Chrome finish exhaust tailpiece
• Dark metal details (daytime running light trim, door beading insert, door mirror housings)
• Body-coloured lower door protective strips with dark metal insert
• Renault Sport door sill guard

Also standard across the Clio GT-Line newcomers is a comprehensive line-up of active and passive safety features that include ASR traction control, ABS, EBD and EBA as well as driver, passenger and side airbags. Electric variable-rate power steering, cruise control/speed limiter, card key and electric windows make additional safety and convenience features. INDUSTRY-LEADING WARRANTY As is the case across Renault’s entire product range, the New Clio GT-Line models come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, in addition a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. PRICING New Clio GT-Line:       Recommended Retail Price    R224 900

With the introduction of the New Mégane RS 265 LUX 2.0 Turbo, Renault Sport delivers the ultimate performance plus package

• Latest addition to the RS line-up fronts Renault’s new design identity with bold front grille design encapsulating brand’s distinctive logo
• Optimised 2.0 litre RS Turbo powerplant delivers explosive performance: 195kW @ 5 500rpm, maximum torque of 360Nm at 3 800rpm and top speed of 250kph
• Renault’s inclusion of Smart Technology features and fitments as standard continues to set the bar

With the introduction of the New Mégane RS 265 LUX 2.0 Turbo to the popular and much-in-demand Renault Sport line-up in South Africa, Renault continues to stay tuned to its customers’ needs and wants. Mégane Renault Sport has earned numerous accolades the worldwide and having scooped the titles of ‘Hot Hatch of the Year 2011” and “2012 Best Buys – Hot Hatch” awarded by South Africa’s CAR and TopCar magazines respectively, the newcomer has a reputation to live up to. According to Brian Smith, vice president of marketing and communications at Renault South Africa, “the New Mégane RS 265 LUX won’t disappoint! “With its optimised Renault Sport engine, the 265 offers high performance coupled with Intelligent Technology. To reiterate the words Nic Cackett, a top UK road tester, “it’s both phenomenally capable and phenomenally rewarding.” “Available from today at Renault dealerships countrywide, I would urge the motoring public to book a test drive and judge for themselves,” he adds. NEW DESIGN Sophisticated yet sportyexterior exudes expression of high level performance and technology In keeping with Renault’s instantly recognizable bold new design identity, the imposing grille also incorporates Renault Sport badging beneath the distinctive and enlarged Renault logo centerpiece. Sporty and muscular yet sleek and refined, the three-door New Mégane RS 265 LUX’s visual signature is further enforced by the F1-styled blade insert in the front bumper and daytime running LED integrated into the lower segment. In the rear, the centre-mounted exhaust with chrome detailed tailpiece is a fully integrated part of the diffuser. Like the aerodynamic F1-styled splitter in the front bumper, the rear diffuser and lip spoiler are hallmark features across the RS line-up and serve as reminders of Renault’s Formula 1 prowess. Stylish 18” anthracite grey RS alloys complete the picture. Sporty interior with no compromise on comfort Like its predecessor, the New Mégane RS 265 LUX marries sport and comfort, two quintessential components of every Renault Sport road car that afford true motoring pleasure and the ultimate driving experience. High quality and refinement is evident in every detail of the cabin’s design, styling and ergonomics as demonstrated by the RS clusters and logo on the dashboard and the stitching which is centre positioned on the steering wheel. The fitment of drilled aluminium sports pedals and RS door sills enhance the fine detailing. With its high level of comfort, the New Mégane RS 265 LUX is perfectly adapted to daily use. The RS leather seats – electrically adjustable and heated – afford exceptional lumbar support and comfort, more important than ever for when the extreme driving bug bites! ENGINE FOCUS Energy and efficiency in motion The 2.0 litre, 16-valve, 4 cylinder RS Turbo petrol engine delivers 195kW (265hp) at 5 500 rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm at 3 800 rpm. In tandem with a six-speed gearbox, the powerplant delivers exceptional performance: a 0 to 100kpm sprint clocks up just six seconds while top speed is a remarkable 250kph. With performance pegged at the top of its category, fuel economy still remains optimised. SMART TECHNOLOGY Innovation deliver most up-to-the-minute, on-board experience On-board super-smart technology that are standard fitments on the New Megane RS 265 LUX deliver consummate convenience. These include:

• TomTom® LIVE Navigation (LIVE services)
• Bluetooth® connectivity which enables safe and convenient hands-free telephony and music streaming from remote devices whilst on the go

• Renault hands-free key card for keyless starting by remote control as well as locking/unlocking of the doors and boot

• Radio CD MP3 with USB port plus fingertip controls behind the steering wheel

• Cruise control + speed limiter that allows the electronic setting of the driver’s choice of cruise or maximum speeds

WORLD-CLASS SAFETY FEATURES AS STANDARD Renault’s stance on safety is well documented and, as with all passenger cars in the Renault line-up, safety on the New Mégane RS 265 LUX is of paramount importance. A comprehensive array of passive and active safety features and fitments are standard. These include:

• ABS braking coupled with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) which, in the event of loss of vehicle control due to excessive speed or slippery road conditions, helps to get the vehicle under control by reducing engine power and braking on independent wheels
• Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) anti-skid system
• Eight (8) airbags (driver, passenger, side and front anti-submarining system)

In addition to driver and passenger seat belts, with the fitment of 3-point safety belts for the three rear passengers, safety for all passengers is assured. ADVANCED DRIVER TRAINING Renault is committed to responsible and safe driving and offers Advanced Driver Training to the drivers of Renault Sport vehicles, as well as all Renault owners and even the general public. “With the transfer of racing technology to our production cars there is a need and responsibility to equip drivers with the necessary skills to drive and handle these high performance vehicles,” advises Smith. “The Renault Advanced Driver Training programme, a courtesy to all RS customers, provides a broad and comprehensive range of advanced driver training that includes not only the high performance race track and skid pan courses, but also training that assist in the day-to-day hazards that face drivers on our public roads. We welcome you, to start your journey with us and master the art of safe driving.” SERVICE AND WARRANTY As is the case across Renault’s entire product range, the New Mégane Renault Sport 265 2.0 Turbo LUX comes with Renault’s industry-leading 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty plan. Six-year anti-corrosion warranty and 5-year/90 000km service plans also apply. Service intervals are at 10 000km. RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICING –        New Mégane Renault Sport 265 LUX   R 389,900 –        Options avialbale:

• Fixed Glass Roof               R 8,000
• Rear Camera Park Assist    R 5,000
• Metallic Paint                    R 2,500

Special Metallic Paint (Sirius Yellow) R 20,000

The all-new RENAULT CAPTUR Crossover is the marque’s latest addition to its fresh and diverse model line-up and set to be a serious contender in South Africa’s very popular and highly competitive B-segment small utility vehicle (SUV) category. While the beautifully practical Captur crossover has the attributes of a standard SUV, it embodies so much more. Combining the personality of a SUV and the spaciousness of an MPV with the dynamism of a hatch, new Renault Captur crossover is the ultimate all-in-one package. Competitively priced, the entry-level Expression 66kW Turbo carries a price tag of just R219 900. Renault Captur offers three derivatives, all petrol-powered: the flagship Dynamique EDC featuring Renault’s new generation 1.2 litre 88kW EDC Turbo power plant, the Dynamique 66kW Turbo and Expression 66kW Turbo. These new generation Turbo engines are a direct result of Renault’s renowned adaptation of Formula 1 (F1) technology and transfer to road cars. Borne of the Captur concept car shown at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, Captur encapsulates Renault design chief, Laurens van den Acker’s design strategy for Renault featuring the trademark diamond-shaped centrepiece which dominates the crossover’s front grille and LED daytime running lights, two features with which the South Africa market is becoming increasingly familiar. An easy-to-drive, multi-functional and -faceted crossover that strikes the ideal balance between beautiful design and practicality, Captur offers a choice of bi-tone body colours (Dynamique models only) and 16” and 17” alloys rims as standard on Expression and Dynamique variants respectively. Super-stylish, curvaceous lines are complemented by the chrome-plated Renault diamond set into the imposing black grille as well as the front LED lights already mentioned. With its flexible, modular layout, Captur’s interior is spacious – as is the boot area – which houses hidden, yet easy-to-access storage space. Immediately eye-catching are the innovative shell-shaped seats which feature trendily designed, practical zip collection covers (on Dynamique models) that are easily removed and washable. Leather seats are an option on the Dynamique 88kW EDC variant. Renault Captur comes to market in South Africa with a proven European track record. Following its international debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the crossover launched in France in April that year. While the sales tally for the nine months to end-December 2013 totalled an impressive 94 000, a further 161 000 Capturs found homes with very happy owners in Europe during 2014. Renault Captur continues to be a global success for the brand – success that Renault South Africa is confident of emulating in the local market. For those spirited, searching individuals who appreciate the finer things, simply love life and savour every moment of it, the new Renault Captur crossover is the perfect lifestyle complement. THE CROSSOVER THAT HAS IT ALL Described by one European journalist as “a compact crossover combining 4×4 looks with supermini dimensions”, with its SUV-styling and persona, MPV-like practicality and the dynamism offered by a hatch, Renault Captur is sure to have great appeal for SA motorists. The petrol-powered Renault Captur line-up offers two manual derivatives, the 66kW Turbo Dynamique and Expression models and top-of-the-range Dynamique 88kW Turbo (EDC auto only). The first manufacturer to introduce Turbo technology to F1 in 1977, Renault’s engineers have adapted their tools and talents used to design powerful, efficient and reliable F1 power plants to develop technically advanced engines for production cars. A host of features resulting from this technology transfer are now a Renault road car standard with benefits that include low inertia turbo, high tech surface treatment of engine components to reduce friction and optimisation of the engine’s internal dynamics to afford better combustion. As a direct result of its extensive F1 expertise gained over the past 38 years, Renault is the most advanced brand globally in respect of engine downsizing, with no compromise on power and performance. The launch of the flagship Captur Dynamique EDC (dual-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission) sees the introduction to South Africa of Renault’s 1.2 litre 88kW Turbo engine which delivers an excellent, fuel efficient drive in tandem with slick, smooth gear changes. With maximum output of 88kW @ 4 900rpm and peak torque of 190Nm @ 2 000rpm, the Dynamique EDC reaches a top speed of 192km/h. At 5.4 litres/100km (in combined cycle NEDC), fuel consumption is frugal while CO² emissions are a low 125g/km. The Captur Expression and Dynamique 5-speed manual derivatives are fitted with Renault’s new generation 66kW Turbo petrol enginewith overboost. This serves to underscore the fact that access to highly efficient and technologically advanced engines is no longer the preserve of more expensive vehicles. Delivering maximum output of 66kW @ 5 250rpm and peak torque of 135Nm @ 2 500rpm, these two models attain a top speed of 171km/h. Fuel consumption figures are impressive (from 4.9 litres/100kms in combined cycle NEDC) as are its CO² emissions (113g/km). DESIGN AND PRACTICALITY: INSIDE AND OUT Clearly derived from the concept car revealed in Geneva in 2011, Captur is modern and stylish with curves in all the right places. With its ground clearance of 170mm and elevated driving position, Captur has a bold presence. An easy-to-drive, multi-functional and multi-faceted crossover that strikes the ideal balance between beautiful design and practicality, with the Dynamique variants, Captur offers a choice of bi-tone body colours. In addition to the front end LED daytime running lights, the two Dynamique models also feature cornering fog light activation (under specific conditions). Large alloy rims come standard – 16”on Expression and 17”on Dynamique models. Side mirrors and door handles are body-coloured with all additional exterior finishes in chrome. With chrome and gloss interior finishes, quality and innovation abound throughout the cabin’s flexible and modular MPV-like layout. Immediately eye-catching are its innovative shell-shaped seats which boast trendily designed, practical zip collection covers (Dynamique only) that are easily removed and washable. While a leather steering wheel is standard on the Dynamique derivatives, leather seats are also an option on the Dynamique EDC variant. Easy-access handles effortlessly slide the rear bench seat forward (by up to 16cm) and it can also be folded flat. The maximum capacity of the boot as seen when opening the hatch door totals 377 litres split by an innovative two-position boot floor with its cleverly hidden yet easy-to-access storage area. With the rear bench seat pushed to its forward most position, the overall capacity increases to 455 litres. With the rear seats folded down, the total maximum boot space measures a substantial 1 235 litres. In the two Dynamique models, the boot floor is reversible: smooth on one side with an anti-slide surface on the other. SMART TECHNOLOGY AT EVERY TURN With smart technology at every turn, Captur boasts a host of fitments and features that exceed the standard in its market segment. Super-smart, like all its Renault siblings, the Captur crossover offers Bluetooth® connectivity which enables safe, convenient and hands-free telephony and music streaming from external devices when on the go. Renault’s MediaNav integrated on-board multimedia system with 7” touchscreen is standard. Satellite navigation and Arkamys radio plus USB port are included in the price tag with every feature easily accessed via fingertip controls conveniently located alongside the steering column. ECO mode function is available at the push of a button and electronically modifies the engine’s response to automatically optimise fuel consumption (by up to -10%). Hands-free key card, electric side mirrors and electric windows (front and rear) plus automatic climate control (with one touch, quick demist function plus air quality management system) are standard features while rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain sensitive front wipers are standard across the range. A tyre pressure sensor is standard on Dynamique models. Smart technology that crosses over into the safety arena is the cruise control + speed limiter, a feature onallthree Captur models. To ensure a more comfortable and safer drive on highways and open roads, the system electronically maintains a steady speed as set by the driver. TOP EURO NCAP SAFETY RATING Safety is synonymous with the Renault brand and, with an unrivalled safety package standard across the Captur range, the newcomer achieved a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating in 2013, the 15^th Renault model to do so. The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) coupled with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) kicks in and automatically applies maximum brake pressure when an emergency braking situation is detected and is able to shorten braking distance by up to nine metres. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) ensures vehicle stability and assists the driver to avoid possible loss of control resulting from excessive speed or slippery road conditions. It detects and reduces loss of traction, reduces engine power and brakes on independent wheels in the event of loss of control. Hill Start Assist (HSA) is automatically activated (upon complete stop) as soon as an incline of at least 10% is detected. The system is engaged by stepping firmly on the brake and prevents any backward movement long enough for pull off without requiring the use of the handbrake. When stepping off the brake, the car will hold for approximately three seconds to allow pull off with no roll-back. Standard passive safety features include high-efficiency front airbags, head/chest side bags, seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters (front seats), anti-submarining front seats, anti-whiplash head rests and force limiter function (rear side seats). Three ISOFIX 3-point child seat anchor seat attachments are fitted to the front passenger and rear side seats. INDUSTRY-LEADING WARRANTY PLUS SERVICE PLAN As is the case across Renault’s entire product range, the all-new Captur crossover comes standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty; a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km/1 year intervals. RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICING –        Renault Captur 66kW Expression          R219 900 –        Renault Captur 66kW Dynamique         R239 900 –        Renault Captur 88kW EDC Dynamique  R279 900 In the two years since its global launch in April 2013, the Renault Captur crossover has racked up a raft of European accolades including 2014 Best Small SUV and Car of the Year 2013 (awarded by the French Association of Automotive Press). Pundits are predicting that the all-new Renault Captur will find favour in the local market and perform equally as well on South African roads.