The Renault Koleos is a big SUV built on the same platform as Nissan's X-Trail. While there are some mechanical overlaps under the skin, the 2 vehicles are quite different in terms of looks and interior layout. While the X-Trail is available with a 7-seat option, the Koleos sticks to a 5-seater formula. The boot size is rated at 464 litres, about average for this segment.
The Renault Koleos is powered by a normally-aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine. With 126 kW and 233 Nm on tap, you can expect the Koleos to hit 100 kph in just under 10 seconds. Renault claims fuel consumption figures of 8.1 L/100 km, while the 4×4 model is a tad thirstier at 8.3 L/100 km. The Koleos comes with a 60-litrefuel tank. Power goes to the front axle in the case of the 4×2 via an X-tronicCVT with 7 speeds.
South Africa will be getting a simple Koleos SUV range. There's 1 engine and 1 gearbox, shared across the range, with the option of 4×2 and 4×4. There will be 2 levels of trim: Expression and Dynamique.
Standard specification is good. On the base model, there's cruise control with speed limiter, rear parking sensors, auto headlights, auto wipers, cornering fog lamps, dual zone climate control, cooled and warmed cup holders and a 7-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.Dynamique spec adds in luxuries like electric folding mirrors, bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable leather seats, tyre pressure sensors, LED headlamps, handsfree card key, electrochromicrearview mirror, uprated Arkamys audio system,bigger touchscreen, atmosphere lighting, blind spot detector, front and rear park sensors and a reverse camera.
Renault is always generous with its safety spec and the Koleos is no different. Both the Expression and Dynamique come with ABS anti-lock brakes and Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist. There are driver, front passenger and curtain airbags too. The Dynamique goes one step further and adds Blind Sport Warning and a Tyre Pressure monitor.
Given the lacklustre sales of the Renault Kadjar, will the Koleos prove a better proposition?
The Renault Koleos is sold with a 5-year / 150 000 km mechanical warranty, 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, 5-year / 90 000 km service plan and the service intervals are every 15 000 km.
Koleos Expression 2.5 CVT 4×2 – R399 900
Koleos Dynamique 2.5 CVT 4×2 – R439 900
Koleos Dynamique 2.5 CVT 4×4 – R479 900
OPTIONS:
Metallic Paint – R2 522
Electric Adjustable Leather Seats (Expression Model) – R 12 000
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