The new Renault Kangoo takes a big step forward, so we can already write down after the first, still quite short introduction. It is much more than a logical successor to the existing model; he makes a targeted shot for the best in class position.
Even before the all-new Kangoo is discussed during the press conference, the importer proudly shows the registrations of the current model. Despite its fourteen years, it occupies seventh place in its class, incidentally right behind its counterpart, the Mercedes-Benz Citan. The Volkswagen Caddy takes the lead unthreatened, as usual. Whether the Kangoo will ever take that top step is doubtful, especially now that Renault has decided to include the cheaper Express in the compact van segment from now on. That simple model allowed the Kangoo to take a big leap in refinement. It should appeal to a target group that is new to the Renault commercial vehicle business, traditionally a brand that mainly has sober, practical workhorses in its stable. Like the Citroën Berlingo, the new Kangoo is moving very strongly towards a passenger car converted into a van, but then – given the level of finish, choice of materials and design – at an even higher level. It also takes distance from the first few meters of the Express, which we had in hand during the same press event. The credits lie with the modern platform on which, for example, the Clio is also located. And things that reduce the noise level, such as thicker windows. The suspension comfort is certainly pleasant for a compact van, as is the stability at speed, for example.
Headaches
The greatest innovation of the Kangoo – the missing B-pillar and thus an enormous loading opening on the side – is passed by the Dutch market due to tax requirements that prescribe a completely closed partition wall. In the driven French version, ‘Open Sesame’ means that a cage can be built around the driver; for the rest, the interior consists of a loading floor because the right front seat is completely folded away. A feat that initially gave our importer headaches; there was no B-pillar, so that the Kangoo was in danger of becoming unsaleable. That style was created anyway, also at the request of other countries. The chosen construction means that the test drive took place with a little noise from the unsealed cargo area. Shouldn’t spoil the fun, because there was plenty: the new Kangoo excels in refinement. With a load of 280 kg on board, the Blue dCi 95 engine (240 Nm at 1,750-2,000 rpm) was already tough in fifth gear when accelerating from 90 km / h; For those who drive a lot on the motorway with heavy loads and do not like downshifting, the most powerful 115 hp version can be an option. Switching and coupling are easy and hassle-free; optional there is an automatic 7-speed gearbox. The electric Kangoo E-Tech Electric will follow early next year.
Workplace
The workplace contains a central display that is placed just sufficiently high, but of which the graphics are not convincing. The set of instruments does that, which is clear despite the deluge of information. The cruise control finally no longer works with steps of 2 km / h, but can also be set per 1 km / h. Physical buttons for heating and ventilation are good for us, but the ventilation grilles on the side are very small. A miss is unfortunately the seating position, which is insufficiently calculated for tall people. The height of the seat, which cannot slide back far enough, also determines how far you sit from the steering wheel; down also means sitting further forward because the chair follows the shape of the dividing wall. Very welcome is the monitor of the motorhome, which is placed in the base of the antenna and which acts as a rear-view mirror. The picture is crystal clear.
With a volume of 3.3 cubic meters, the cargo space of the new Renault Kangoo is the same as that of the new Renault Express. Those looking for more space will have to wait until next year for the Kangoo Maxi, which will be no less than half a meter longer than the regular Kangoo. The latter has a load capacity of 600 to 800 kg, the Maxi goes to 1,000 kg and, as Renault already whispers, a load volume of up to 10 cubic meters. This makes it a serious competitor for the Trafic from its own house.