The Renault Koleos, originally launched here in 2008, went through an update in 2010 and a model change in 2014, but was dropped from the market early last year due to flagging sales. Now, the second-generation model, released overseas in 2016, is set for local introduction this month.
The Koleos is the largest SUV of Renault, with the Kadjar (already discontinued in South Africa) and the Captur completing the range. The five-seat SUV shares its platform with the Nissan X-Trail and will locally compete against models such as the Volkswagen Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5.
With a length of 4,672 mm the Koleos is 222 mm longer than the Kadjar, and it has a longer wheelbase and rear passenger room amongst best-in-class. Its luggage space is a claimed 458 litres with all seats in position and 1,690 litres with the rear seats folded. It scored a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP tests.
While local model, trim, and engine specifications have not yet been confirmed, the Koleos will in all probability be made available with a naturally aspirated 2,5-litre petrol engine delivering 126 kW and 226 Nm of torque – as used in the X-Trail range – in 2WD or All-Mode 4×4-i format with a seven-speed Auto X-Tronic transmission. Pricing has also not yet been confirmed.
– Ferdi de Vos
