Renault Symbioz and Captur updated with new powertrains

Renault Symbioz and Captur updated with new powertrains for 2026 model year

The Renault range of SUVs has received a series of updates for the 2026 model year, including a more powerful full hybrid E-Tech 160 powertrain for Captur and Symbioz with improved performance and efficiency, a new mild hybrid 140 engine option for Symbioz, and enhanced standard equipment levels for selected Captur trims.

New full hybrid E-Tech 160 powertrain for Captur and Symbioz
Captur and Symbioz both feature a new full hybrid E-Tech 160 powertrain that replaces the previous 145hp engine. With the new, larger 1.8-litre petrol engine producing more power and torque, performance and drivability are improved, with 62 mph now reached from a standstill over a second faster than before. A larger 1.4 kWh battery (up from 1.26 kWh) increases the opportunities to run in electric-only mode, making for a smoother, quieter driving experience while also saving fuel and reducing emissions. In fact, this EU7-compliant engine now emits just 97 g/km of CO₂ and uses approximately 5% less fuel.

The new full hybrid E-Tech 160 powertrain also benefits from a series of enhancements to the intelligent multi-mode transmission, including smoother shifting and one additional mode designed specifically for motorway use that reduces noise levels and improves responsiveness, plus a new e-shifter as standard across all trim levels.

As a final benefit, this new powertrain also offers an enhanced towing capacity, up from 750kg to 1,000kg.

Prices for the Captur full hybrid E-Tech 160 start at £25,195, with the Symbioz full hybrid E-Tech 160 available from £29,795.

New mild hybrid 140 option for Symbioz
For 2026MY, Symbioz gains the option of a new mild hybrid 140 petrol engine coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, available exclusively with the techno trim. This 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit features mild hybrid technology to deliver excellent efficiency, recording 47.9 mpg on the WLTP combined cycle and CO₂ emissions of 133 g/km. The mild hybrid 140 adds a highly competitive new entry-level model to the Symbioz range, priced from only £27,395 OTR.

More advanced driver assistance systems as standard for Captur
All trim levels in the Captur range now feature an electric parking brake with auto-hold as standard. Adaptive cruise control with speed limiter – capable of automatically maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle in front, braking and accelerating as necessary – is now included on the mid-range techno trim and above for all hybrid models.

The range-topping esprit Alpine trim goes further, with lane centering, occupant safe exit, blind spot recognition, rear detection with emergency lane keeping assist, and rear cross traffic alert all as standard. A new child locking function for the rear doors and windows is also included.