Reviews - Renault

Overall Rating

The Kangoo is Renault's small panel van in this competitive market. Neat, compact and stylish this van is packed with equipment and security features that outclass their rivals. One of the UK's best selling small panel vans.

• Good choice of quality engines
• Economical
• Security features best in it?s class

• Boxy back end

As with many small panel vans in its sector the Kangoo has gone under facelifts to give it a modern look with a neat and distinctive front end. Large headlights dominate the front and the bonnet curves up at the sides with an unusual looking crease running down its centre. The Kangoo has inherited the Renault family look and has similarities with the Trafic. The Kangoo range features two trim levels (SL or SL+) and five engines. The three diesels are essentially the same engine just tuned to give differing power outputs. Collapsible steering column, good body stiffness and height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners. There's a drivers airbag with passenger and side airbags optional, side impact bars, energy absorbent door padding and ABS brakes with brake assist providing the best protection spec in the market. General equipment levels are good, entry-level SL trim includes remote central locking, immobiliser, CD stereo, power steering and height adjustable headrests amongst other things. Make the step up to the + trim level and there is a sliding side door, a rubber floor covering for the load area, a three button key that opens the load bay and the cab separately, rain-sensing wipers, load area lights and a trip computer. All Kangoo's feature RAID the Renault Anti-Intruder Device which automatically locks all the doors as you drive away, stopping thieves from opening your door. The most popular is the 1.5-litre dCi in 60, 70 or 84bhp form. All are quiet and economical with good response at low engine. Like the petrol engines in the Kangoo, these oil-burners are also compliant with the Euro IV emissions regulations. If towing regularly the 84bhp is a good choice with a maximum torque of 200Nm and a competitive 50mpg fuel economy. For speed the dCi84 is the quickest Kangoo around with a 0-62mph time of 11.3s which is even faster than the 95bhp 1.6-litre 16v petrol option. The final engine choice is an economical 1.2-litre 75bhp petrol that could be a cheap enough option to sway cost-cutting buyers away from the diesel. Renaults Proactive automatic transmission system is exclusively available with the 1.6-litre petrol engine giving a 35mpg on the combined cycle.

Packed with additional equipment Renault has treated this van as they would one of their cars. It's a great day-to-day driving van and perfect for all manner of trades.