Renault Captur automatic (EDC) 2014 review

Renault’s EDC dual-clutch gearbox was disappointing in the Renault Clio RS. So is it a better fit in the Renault Captur crossover?

• Full Renault Captur review

Unlike the hot Clio, you can have your Captur in manual or automatic form. However, if you prefer petrol power, the EDC comes with the 118bhp 1.2-litre engine, while the manual is fitted solely to the 89bhp 900cc version.

Off the line, it doesn’t matter if you press the throttle softly or aggressively, the Captur never seems to engage first gear fast enough, or get off the line without jerking forward, which is annoying in stop-start traffic.

The gears shift more smoothly once you’re up and running, but the box is slow to react if you want it to kick down so you can overtake a slower vehicle.

• Renault Clio and Captur range updates

The brakes lack finesse, too. While the pedal has a long travel, the brakes only respond once you’ve pressed it half way. And when they do apply, they’re really grabby, so it’s hard to make a smooth stop.

Still, the Captur remains a good-looking car - the Captur isn’t quite as handsome as the Clio, but it’s easier on the eye than a Nissan Juke - and the high driving position is a bonus, even if the thick A-pillars restrict your view at junctions. And while the ride is firm over low-speed bumps, the engine is smooth and quiet.

It’s hard to look beyond the dual-clutch box and poor tuning of the brakes – they make this version hard to recommend. This EDC gearbox came in for some stick in the hot Renaultsport Clio, and it’s no better in the Captur.

• Renault Clio RS review