New Renault Koleos
The flagship Renault Koleos range has been revised, with the all-wheel-drive version dropped. South African drivers can now choose between the Expression and the Dynamique, with just under R50k difference in price.
Both vehicles share the same easy revving, 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine. Power is 126kW and torque is 233 Nm, and this is sent to the front wheels via a smooth CVT. Those wheels are massive 18-inches, alloy, in the case of the Dynamique, two-tone.
But for most of us, owning a safe car is the most important buying decision. Depending on which Koleos you choose, you can expect ABS and emergency brake assist, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, electronic brake distribution, front two-stage automatic adaptive airbags, curtain airbags, side-impact beams, electric power-assisted steering, tyre pressure monitor, blind-spot warning, cruise control and speed limiter, and front and rear parking sensors.
You still want a car that is nice to drive, to be in. Yet again, model depending, you get: electrically adjustable leather seats, leather steering wheel, electric parking brake, rear seat aircon ducts, power function driver’s seat, intuitive voice command, and Apple/Android infotainment.
The Koleos also has auto LED daytime running lights. Nice touches include grille with chrome trim, satin chrome door handles, electronic body colour side mirrors, satin chrome roof bars and front skid plate, as well as the option of metallic paint.
Space is important in this segment, and the Koleos has oodles. The boot, at 579-litres, is big enough for all the luggage for your holiday, all three dogs and the budgie. You can also fit a thing nearly a metre long behind the seats. The 210mm ground clearance means you can take all this luggage on a holiday that is off the beaten track.
Like most Renault vehicles, the Renault Koleos comes standard with a five-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty, six-year anti-corrosion warranty and five-year/90 000 km service plan.
This revised range is not a new generation but has benefitted from a substantial facelift. If you want a big, capable, luxurious SUV, have a look at the Renault Koleos and maybe take it for a test drive.
