The 2019 Renault Koleos
As far as SUVs go, there are many good options and, now, the new generation Renault Koleos is among them. The new generation Renault SUV came to South Africa in February 2019 and according to Renault: “It has been well received by virtue of its extremely competitive pricing for a high-end SUV, loaded with technologically advanced features”.
Considering the success of the Kadjar and Captur, the facelifted Renault Koleos adds more spice to the mix. Besides creating a distinctive look, it also gets a new engine and several tech upgrades marking Renault’s new identity. The interior is more refined loaded with features, premium quality finishing and tons of space, not to mention uncompromising safety features.
Renault Koleos Exterior Styling
Not surprisingly, they opted for similar styling to the Renault Megane and for good reason as it looks modern, sleek and somewhat sportier. The front now has a more pronounced radiator grille and decorative chrome strip extending to the chrome-underlined fog lamps. The C-shaped headlight profile remains the same but they’ve added new 18-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels depending on the selected model.
From a practical point of view, the Renault Koleos features doors that fully cover the sills which mean keeping your clothes from getting dirty. It also has an optional electric rear hatch that you can open by waving your foot underneath for easy access. This is a particularly handy feature especially you’re your hands are full. All the doors open at wide angles giving you ample room for getting in and out, especially handy when trying to put young children into car seats in the back.
Interior Styling And Tech Features
While the interior has remained largely the same, Renault stated that the front seats are now markedly more comfortable. They also offer extendable seat cushions, heating and ventilation functions. The driver’s seat can also have a massaging program but that is an optional extra and not a standard feature. The new Renault Koleos SUV comes with an updated R-Link 2 infotainment system available in two screen formats featuring a vertical smartphone design for easy reading.
Automatic headlights and windscreen wipers are standard while the dual-zone climate control and stylish TFT instrumentation create a luxurious interior. Unlike other SUVs in this segment, the new Renault Koleos is a 5-seater and while some may prefer seven seats, it does result in a generous amount of space all-round. There is also a respectable 464 litres of boot space with the rear seats upright which leaves enough room for luggage, groceries or your favourite set of golf clubs.
Renault has replaced the manual foot pedal with an electronic parking brake that immobilises the Renault Koleos when the engine is completely turned off. The electronic parking brake is gradually released according to engine torque or a change in elevation which adds further driving convenience and total peace of mind.
Power, Performance And Safety
The Renault Koleos is powered by the Nissan-Renault four-cylinder engine which is also found on the Nissan X-Trail. This naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre engine produces 126 kW and 233 Nm of torque giving drivers good acceleration and torque for highway cruising.
Partly responsible for the good performance rating of the new Renault Koleos is its reasonable un-laden weight of only 1 565 kg which results in a claimed top speed of about 199 km/h. The CVT gearbox also means better acceleration when overtaking. The French automaker has also done their due diligence for high safety standards with 5-star NCAP certification.
As with all other Renault vehicles, the new Renault Koleos comes standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, 5-year/ 90 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km.
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