Renault Kangoo (98-09) Review

 

Renault’s Kangoo van entered the small van market in 1998, proving popular among small business owners looking for dependability and all-round versatility in a compact package. It competes against the Citroën Berlingo and Fiat Doblo and, despite stiff competition, has proved a popular buy thanks to a wide range of engines, easy access to the rear and a roomy load bay. Renault has successfully re-packaged Kangoo as a passenger vehicle, too, launching it into the compact people carrier market in 1999.

Visibility is helped by the optional rear view windows and large wide door mirrors. The high, upright driving position allows a commanding view of the road and it’s relatively easy to get comfortable. The durable matt plastic dashboard and centre console should withstand daily wear-and-tear and are easy to use. However, despite Kangoo’s chunky styling and hardwearing appearance, the individual components do not fit together as neatly as they should - leaving space between the fascia – which looks poor and allows dust and grime in.

Kangoo is happy to zip through the city or sail on the motorway without complaint. Drivers get a great view of the road and the cabin is comfortable enough for long trips. There's a wide range of engines available, two petrol units - a 60bhp 1.2 and 95bhp 1.6 - and three 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesels, which range from 57 to 80bhp. The majority of Kangoos are available with a five-speed manual 'box, though the 1.6-litre petrol unit only comes with four-speed automatic transmission. The power steering (standard across the range) and tight turning circle are great for tight manoeuvres and navigating through traffic. None of the engines are particularly potent, and the petrol engines can struggle uphill or when fully laden. The softly-sprung suspension is forgiving on poor road surfaces, but rolls considerably when changing direction.