The Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 90 Hp Start&Stop, produced from 2013 to 2017, represents an entry-level offering within the first generation of the Captur (2013-2019) model range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable crossover, it played a significant role in Renault’s expansion into the increasingly popular small SUV/crossover segment, particularly in European markets. The Captur, built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s V platform (also known as the X06), aimed to blend the practicality of a compact hatchback with the elevated driving position and styling cues of an SUV. This specific 1.5 dCi variant was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and lower running costs, making it a popular choice for urban commuters and small families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Captur |
| Generation | Captur |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) start&stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 95 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 608 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1245 kg (2744.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1729 kg (3811.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 484 kg (1067.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 377 l (13.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4122 mm (162.28 in.) |
| Width | 1778 mm (70 in.) |
| Height | 1566 mm (61.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2606 mm (102.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.42 m (34.19 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Captur 1.5 dCi 90 is the K9K 608 engine, a member of Renault’s widely used K9K family of diesel engines. This 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, providing 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. The Start&Stop system, standard on this variant, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 dCi 90 Hp Automatic Captur delivers modest but adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.4 seconds, and top speed is approximately 106 mph. The engine’s peak torque, available from low revs, provides sufficient pulling power for urban driving and overtaking on slower roads. However, it can feel strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. The five-speed manual gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth shifts and a reasonable spread of ratios. Compared to higher-powered Captur variants (like the 1.2 TCe petrol), the dCi 90 prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine operates at relatively low RPMs during cruising, contributing to its impressive fuel consumption figures.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 dCi 90 Start&Stop typically came equipped with a base level of features, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Expression and Dynamique, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and metallic paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Captur’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension utilizes a simple and cost-effective elastic beam setup. Front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Electric power steering provides light and easy steering, making it ideal for urban maneuvering. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp cornering. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Captur 1.5 dCi 90 was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and stylish design. It was often praised as a sensible and affordable option for buyers seeking a small crossover. However, some reviewers noted its modest performance and relatively basic interior compared to some competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Captur variants, the dCi 90 offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. Against rivals like the Peugeot 2008 and Nissan Juke, the Captur stood out with its spacious interior and distinctive styling.
Legacy
The K9K engine, used in the Captur 1.5 dCi 90, has a reputation for being relatively reliable, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues can occur, particularly with frequent short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel are crucial for maintaining the engine’s longevity. On the used car market, the Captur 1.5 dCi 90 remains a popular choice due to its affordability and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF problems and ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Captur, in general, helped establish Renault as a key player in the competitive crossover segment, paving the way for future models like the second-generation Captur.
