2017 Renault Kangoo Review | Small Van Offers A Range Of Choices Few Can Match
Australia’s increasing fondness for the dual-cab ute has been well documented in recent times. But despite being around for years and years, small vans such as the Renault Kangoo have plodded along with barely improved fortunes.
Along with the Citroen Berlingo, Fiat Doblo and – by far the most popular vehicle in the segment – the Volkswagen Caddy, the circa-$25,000 Kangoo range forms part of a quaint and quirky, and wholly European breed of entry light commercial vehicle.
But being less popular doesn’t necessarily translate to being less able. Could the two-seat, sliding-side-door Renault actually be where the ‘smart money’ is at for the savvy tradesperson? In short, mate, do you really need a ute?
The Kangoo has just been updated with a new turbo engine, more sophisticated dual-clutch automatic and greater safety equipment, the time is ripe to find out.
Vehicle Style: Small van
Price: $26,490 plus on-road costs
Engine/trans: 84kW/190Nm 1.2 turbo petrol four-cylinder | six-speed dual-clutch auto
Fuel Economy Claimed: 6.5 l/100km | Tested: 9.6 l/100km
OVERVIEW
Given that rivals are so few in the light van segment, it’s worth noting that a Berlingo or Doblo can be purchased for $22,000 plus on-road costs in revvy 1.6-litre non-turbo form with a manual gearbox. Simple, and simply cheap, cargo carriers right there.
The equivalent six-speed manual Kangoo starts a little higher, at $23,490 (plus orc), mainly because it boasts a 1.2-litre turbo engine with a comparatively lush 190Nm of torque. The Citroen has 147Nm; the Fiat gets only 127Nm.