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THE OLD ONES ARE THE BEST
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Renault's high-cube Kangoo may not be any-hing new,
but with Euro-4 technology under its bonnet it aims to keep up with the rest of the pack.
It is easy to forget that, with all the hoo-ha regarding the plethora of major van launches this year. there are some perfectly capable load-carriers around which have been doing their service without complaint. And while newer is generally regarded as better, it is by no means the final word.
Stepping up to the Euro-4 plate is the oft-forgotten Renault Kangoo (also masquerading as a Nissan Kubistar — something to do with Renault owning Nissan). Its cute exterior shuns the current trend for purposefully designed CVs such as the Transit Connect, and its lightweight build makes it considerably lighter than current CM favourite, the Volkswagen Caddy (1,890kg vs 2,235kg GVW).
But less weight shouldn't mean less ability. Indeed, it can add to a vehicle's manoeuvrability and thus ease of driving — especially in the urban environment.
Power conies from a 1.5-litre Euro-4 common-rail engine producing 60,70 or 85hp.which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox— there are also two petrol variants,a 1.2-litre and a 1.6-litre (the latter coming with automatic transmission).
Payloads are broadly split between two versions.The SI.17 is rated at 625kg while the SL19 can carry 8(X)kg.
Standard equipment includes ABS. tubular bulkhead.CD radio and remote central locking—though not much else. But delve into the options list and there are plenty of useful extras that can be added.
Our advice is to plump for the '+' pack, which adds electric windows, rubber load floor covering, parcel shelf and side loading door among other practical features.
Prices start at t:9,850 for the basic SL17 dCi with 60hp, while our test vehicle (SL19+ with 85hp rating) comes in ati11.4(X).
Produdivity
Euro-4 has improved the emission levels. but that has not been to the detriment of the Kangoo's fuel economy.A laden run around the Kent test route produced an impressive 49.6mpg.putting the Kangoo in the upper echelons of its class. Unladen,the figure was an equally creditable 55.8mpg.
In the rear, the low loading lip makes getting the payload in an easy task.lhis is further helped by the offset rear doors that open 180' once released from their immediate latches Further (optional) features on our test vehicle included the recommended protective load liner, the side securing rail with fixing rings for larger items and the folding passenger seat and swivel bulkhead, complete with secure storage compartment.
But while the layout and design of the
load area hits all the right notes, it also feels lightweight in its build.This may he an issue if you're going to be carrying some serious weight.
Don't get us wrong, the overall quality of construction is solid but the side panels and rear doors lack that extra reinforcement you would find in larger panel vans.
On the road
On the move, there is a sense of purpose in the way the Kangoo goes about its business. It is not overly dynamic, hut it does what is required of it without a fuss, allowing unruffled progress.
This is in part thanks to the engine's torque delivery, which builds up strongly from low-down -making it particularly useful in the urban environment where constant gear changing can be a chore.
It is also a smooth unit, remaining in the background even when taken to the red-line. This is mated to a live-speed manual box that may not be as precise in its operation as some
but is well suited to the engine's easy nature, moving between gates without the need for elbow grease.
This relaxed character is carried over into the chassis, which is surprisindy compliant over humps and undulations avoiding any nervousness that can affect some light vans. It also behaves neutrally in corners, with a reassuring amount of grip even when fully loaded, remaining flat and controllable. This ability is ably matched to precise steering, which has a decent degree of weighting as well as giving plenty of feedback on what the front wheels are up to.
However, having plenty of cargo on board can also dull the Kangoo's responsiveness to a noticeable degree—something that is less apparent with the heavier contingent in the class.
The Kangoo could also do with a more progressive brake pedal. as the current one lacks that reassuring element of immediate bite, Cab comfort
The most striking thing on entering the Kangoo is its uncomplicated interior des There are no gimmicks or features that g the attention but the simplicity instantly you at ease.
Controls are where they should he, with all major switch gear accessible and easy to identify.
The light colour scheme employed also makes the Kangoo feel roomier than it actually isa definite positive as cabin space is limited. For the taller person the restricted rearward seat travel is noticeable,while the lack of an adjustable steering wheel further hinders the driving position.
However this is offset in part by a comfortable seat that works well over long journeys.There is also a decent amount of practical storage, with door bins and can holders as well as an overhead parcel shelf and under-seat storage drawer.
Unfortunately the door mirrors do not offer much in the way of rear vision.Their slim profile and extended blind spot feature only help to blur the image as one mirror type blends into another.
There is also a sharp increase in noise intrusion from the load area when travelling at speed, which can takes the shine off what is generally a well insulated cabin.