Renault Kangoo (2008 – 2020) Review
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Renault Kangoo (2008 – 2020) At A Glance
Versatile and user-friendly compact van, economical 1.5 dCi engines improved for 2013 with start/stop, Z.E all-electric version available with range of 105 miles.
Short wheelbase Compact version no longer available.
The Renault Kangoo is one of the most popular compact vans on the market and it's easy to see why. Well built, comfortable and practical, it's ideal for small businesses who want a good quality and versatile van. There are three versions - the Kangoo Compact, the standard Kangoo Van and then the Kangoo Maxi - the latter being available as a two-seat or five-seat crew van.
The standard Kangoo Van is ideal for most needs and has 3.0 cubic metres of load space that's user-friendly with neat touches such as a movable bulkhead and folding passenger seat that means longer items can be carried. There's also a useful optional roof flap that means you can transport things like ladders or pipes.
There are three versions of the impressive 1.5 dCi diesel engine available in the Kangoo range with varying outputs of 70PS, 85PS or 105PS. There's also a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 105PS although this was dropped when the Kangoo was facelifted in early 2013.
That facelift bought a new front end look with redesigned headlights as well as improvements to refinement with better sound proofing and aerodynamics while the Compact model was dropped from the range. There were also improvements to the engines with more power and better fuel economy. Start/stop is now standard on the 1.5 dCi 75PS and 90PS versions which helps claimed economy increase to 62.8mpg.
In September 2016 the Kangoo engine line-up was updated, with more power, Euro6 emission standards. The four-cylinder 1.5dCi outputs increase to 75PS, 90PS and 110PS, while peak economy remained unchanged.
Driving the Renault Kangoo (2008 – 2020)
It’s clear from the off that Renault has designed the Kangoo with not just the van market in mind but also the passenger car MPV market. Its ride comfort is much better than most vans’ as it soaks up lumps and bumps in the road with considerable ease. It makes the Kangoo a wise choice for anyone who drives over rough city streets or pockmarked country lanes with regularity. It also means the Kangoo is a good at carrying delicate loads that might otherwise be jolted around by some of the Renault’s less sumptuously sprung competitors.
There is a downside to the soft-set suspension and that is more body lean than you experience in a Ford Transit Connect or Vauxhall Combo. It’s not an alarming angle of dangle through corners, but it’s noticeable enough to make the Kangoo stand out from its rivals. Whether this is something that bothers you is more down to personal taste than any dynamic shortcoming of the Kangoo and we rate the Renault’s grip and poise through corners highly in this class.
We also like the Renault’s steering feel, which helps make the Kangoo good to drive in town or on faster roads. It’s light when parking and, combined with relatively compact dimensions whichever model variant you prefer, makes the Kangoo a cinch to slot into those tight parking spots that are the bane of every van driver’s life.
Making life easier for van drivers is the Kangoo’s engine line-up. There's a 1.6-litre 105PS petrol engine but it’s not an engine many users will take up as 36.7mpg average economy and 180g/km CO2 emissions cannot come close to matching the diesels’ far more impressive figures. The 1.6 petrol was axed from the Kangoo range in 2013.
The 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesel engine is a common sight in the Kangoo and in many other Renault models. It’s a very sound engine and, as a measure of its reliability, it has not been subject to any recalls since the Kangoo arrived in its current guise in 2007. In fact, the Kangoo has been subject to very few recalls overall, suggesting the design is spot on.
At launch, the 1.5-litre dCi came in 75PS, 85PS and 110PS variations. With the entry-point diesel, Renault also offers its Eco2 technology to further improve economy and lower emissions, with 60.1mpg and 112g/km CO2 emissions compared to the standard 75PS diesel’s 52.3mpg and 129g/km. There is an additional cost in choosing the Eco2 model, though this is compensated for by it coming in the more generously equipped Core trim rather than the most basic Debut configuration.
The 90PS and 110PS diesels offer stronger acceleration and better cruising than the 75PS unit, which can struggle on the motorway. Both of the more powerful diesels are refined and make light work unless the Kangoo is loaded to its maximum capacity.
Euro6 versions of the 1.5-litre dCi were introduced in September 2016 with lower emissions and more power, with 80PS, 90PS and 110PS.
Then there is the Z.E battery-powered Kangoo. It has an electric motor with 60PS, which is less than the least powerful diesel but because the electric motor offers instant shove it feels just as zesty. A single-speed automatic transmission makes life very simple for the Kangoo ZE driver as all you do is press the throttle to go and the brake to stop. Top speed is 80mph, so the Kangoo ZE can tackle motorways, but this will drain the battery quite quickly and reduce its practical range, which is rated at 106 miles in mixed driving.
With zero tailpipe emissions, the Kangoo Z.E is exempt from the London Congestion Charge and, as it can be charged from a plug point, it also qualifies for the Government’s grant to help offset the cost of battery-powered commercial vehicles. However, you should bear in mind you will have to pay a monthly rental for the battery as Renault sells you the van but hires you the battery.
Renault Kangoo (2008 – 2020) interior
With a choice of three body lengths, as well as panel van and crew van versions, there’s a Kangoo to suit almost every need. The Kangoo can deal with maximum payloads from 650kg to 800kg, with the Z.E electric model coming in at same 650kg maximum permissible payload as the 75PS diesel models, so there’s no loss of practicality in choosing the battery-powered model.
Cargo volume ranges from 3.0m3 to 4.0m3 to put the Kangoo on a par with the best in this class. Even the shortest body length version can cope with a Euro pallet in its load bay, while the Maxi version is able to swallow two whole Euro pallets to make it a very useful bit of kit without the need to trade up to a larger van. There is only one roof height across all Kangoo models though.
For the Z.E electric version of the Kangoo, Renault fixes the batteries underneath the floor, so there is no intrusion into the load bay and its cargo volume is unaffected. Like the other models in the range, there are lashing hooks in the floor and a tubular bulkhead behind the driver’s seat. Core and Sport models can be ordered with an optional full steel bulkhead, and they also have underbody protection as standard to safeguard from scuffs and speed bumps, but the entry-point Debut models do without this.
Every Kangoo model has side-hinged rear doors that open out to 180-degrees and a sliding left-hand side door that affords excellent access to the cargo space. A sliding right-hand side door is an option for the Core and Sport models, as are trim panels for the load bay. The top spec Sport models have a rubber load floor covering as standard and this is an option for the Core trim but not the Debut.
In the cabin there is loads of space and this feeling is enhanced by the large windscreen and high roof. It gives the Kangoo cab an airy feeling that makes it a pleasant place to spend long days. Hard wearing materials make it rugged but they could do with looking a little more attractive for those who have to spend long periods of their working lives. A driver’s airbag is standard, with passenger and side airbags as options.
All-round visibility in the Kangoo is generally good, though you have to pay extra for glazed rear doors should you want this aid to reversing. Or, you could add the optional rear parking sensors to help when manoeuvring into tight spots.
The dash is easy to get on terms with as most of the instruments and dials are lifted straight from Renault’s passenger cars. The Z.E electric model has a battery charge indicator instead of a fuel gauge and it also has blue trim highlights to distinguish it from its fossil-burning counterparts. Satellite navigation is an option for the Core and Sport models.
Standard equipment across the range includes Bluetooth, a USB connection plus an adjustable passenger seat. The Core trim adds electric front windows and a trip computer, while the Sport gains an uprated CD stereo, air conditioning, pollen filter, alloy wheels, front fog lights and Renault’s R-Link Multimedia system.
Renault Kangoo (2008 – 2020) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3829–4666 mm |
| Width | 1829 mm |
| Height | 1812–1844 mm |
| Load Volume | 1.3–4.0 m3 |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1236–3145 kg |
| Payload | 519–833 kg |
| Warranty | 48/100,000 24/unlimited |
| Servicing | 24000 |
Crew Cab Van Maxi
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maxi Core LL21 dCi 110 | £15,900 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Core LL21 dCi 90 | £15,300 | 55.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 85 | £14,140 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 90 | £14,340 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Sport LL21 dCi 110 | £16,800 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Sport LL21 dCi 90 | £16,200 | 55.4 mpg | Details |
Crew Van Maxi
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core LL21 dCi 90 Crew Van | £15,450 | 56.5 mpg | Details |
| Extra LL21 dCi 90 eco | £11,825 | 56.5 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Core LL21 dCi 110 | £15,400 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 85 | £13,940 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 90 | £14,140 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi ZE (unglazed) | £18,340 | - | Details |
| Sport LL21 dCi 110 Crew Van | £17,200 | 60.1 mpg | Details |
| Sport LL21 dCi 90 Crew Van | £16,600 | 56.5 mpg | Details |
Panel Van
Panel Van Maxi
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core LL21 dCi 110 | £15,250 | 60.1 mpg | Details |
| Core LL21 dCi 90 | £14,650 | 56.5 mpg | Details |
| Core LL21 Energy dCi 90 | £14,900 | 60.1 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Core LL21 dCi 90 Stop & Start | £14,700 | - | Details |
| Maxi Debut Special Edition LL21 dCi 90 | £10,400 | 55.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 105 | £13,690 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 105+ | £14,040 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 110 | £13,890 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 110+ | £14,240 | 51.4 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 85 | £13,040 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 85+ | £13,390 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 90 | £13,240 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi LL21 dCi 90+ | £13,590 | 53.3 mpg | Details |
| Maxi Sport LL21 dCi 90 Stop & Start | £15,850 | - | Details |
| Sport LL21 dCi 110 | £16,400 | 60.1 mpg | Details |
| Sport LL21 dCi 90 | £15,800 | 56.5 mpg | Details |
| Sport LL21 Energy dCi 90 | £16,050 | 60.1 mpg | Details |
Model History
- October 2007: Renault unveils Kangoo
- October 2008
- November 2008: New Kangoo launched in the UK
- December 2009
- June 2010: Kangoo Van Maxi introduced
- June 2010: Renault launches Renault iCare
- February 2013: Renault Kangoo facelifted
- March 2014: Renault Kangoo Extra launched
- November 2015: Kangoo range updated for 2016
- July 2016: Renault Kangoo gets Euro6 engines
- September 2017: Kangoo now available with EDC gearbox
- April 2018: Renault vans now available with supplied sign writing
- November 2018: Kangoo Premier Edition
October 2007
Renault unveils Kangoo
The new Kangoo Van is equipped with several practical storage solutions, including dashboard storage for an A4 document, an overhead parcel shelf and a large, 15-litre lidded glovebox (depending on version).
A length of 4.21m frees up an optimised load capacity of between 3 and 3.6 cubic metres, while its interior width (1.21m between wheel arches) now makes it possible to accept a standard Euro pallet. Hinged, asymmetrical rear doors and the sliding side loading door (depending on version) give easy access to the cargo area.
This versatility extends to the possibility of folding the passenger seat (optional) to increase carrying capacity to 3.6 cubic metres. It comes with a choice of economical engines with three diesel powerplants based on the 1.5 dCi block (70PS, 85PS and 105PS), plus two petrol engines (1.6 8V 90PS and 1.6 16V 105PS). Powered by the 85PS version of the diesel engine. Economy is 54.3 mpg, equivalent to 137g/km CO2.
October 2008
Three year/100,000 mileage warranty annoucned. Renault’s reveals that the Kangoo will get a three year/100,000 mile warranty (first two years unlimited mileage).
November 2008
New Kangoo launched in the UK
Prices range from £8,690 to £12,290 (excluding VAT). There are two versions - the Kangoo Compact and Kangoo Van. With two trim levels and five engines available across the short and standard wheelbase versions, it offers a 21-model range.
Whether it be the economy of the Compact for smaller deliveries or the larger payload (650kg or 800kg) and 1.5 dCi 105 engine of its bigger brother, b oth models come well equipped. The Kangoo Compact SL offers 30W CD-RDS audio system, ABS with EBD, four load anchorage points, remote control central locking, full steel bulkhead, overhead storage shelf, driver’s side airbag, height-adjustable seatbelts and steering wheel, with SL+ adding height adjustable driver’s seat, additional side anchorage points and a central console with armrest.
The 1.5 dCi versions of the Kangoo Compact and Kangoo Van are the first Renault commercial vehicles to achieve the Company’s eco² status. Economy on the Kangoo dCi 85PS is a claimed 54.3mpg with CO2 of 137g/km. Two option packs will also be available to offer savings compared to purchasing items separately. The Air Con+ Pack (£550) saves £290 and includes manual conditioning, electric windows, body-coloured, electrically operated and heated door mirrors. The second, Convenience Pack (£200), saves £75 on the ML+, with electric windows and body-coloured, electrically operated and heated electric door mirrors.
December 2009
Extra versions introduced. The Extra special edition of the Kangoo gets air conditioning, electric windows and electrically operated and heated door mirrors plus a tubular steel bulkhead as standard.
June 2010
Kangoo Van Maxi introduced
An extended wheelbase version (nearly 40cm) with either two or five seats, it offers a useful load volume of up to 4.6m3, a maximum load length at floor level of 2.90 metres, an even more modular interior, solid roadholding and a choice of fuel-efficient engines. Two trim levels: LL and LL+. £550 more than standard versions, at £12,590 to £13,590 (excluding VAT and on-the-road charges).
June 2010
Renault launches Renault iCare
An innovative maintenance system designed specifically for the modern commercial vehicle user, whether a one van operator or larger fleet, it's designed to ensure down time is kept to a minimum and compliance legislation is fully adhered to.
A pro-actively managed service, maintenance and repair system, Renault iCare uses telematics to provide 'pay-as-you-earn' pricing and hands-free communication with the driver. Each vehicle is fitted with a four-way communication button, with one button providing the driver with direct access to Renault Assistance whenever help is required. The Renault iCare call centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days per week to immediately direct the call to the appropriate support service, whether the AA for breakdowns, Renault Accident Support Line, tyre assistance, or windscreens.
February 2013
Renault Kangoo facelifted
On the outside there's a new front end to bring it into line with other Renault models as well as redesigned door mirrors. There are improvements to spot weld finishes, the crimping quality of door panels plus enhanced acoustics including better sound proofing and aerodynamics.
The range now has two wheelbase lengths, three versions of the1.5-litre dCi diesel engine - 75PS, 90PS and 110PS - plus a choice of two or five-seat versions of the Kangoo Maxi. The five seat Crew version features a rear seat that can be tipped forward. The dCi 75PS and 90PS now get start/stop which helps improve economy to a claimed 65.7mpg with 112g/km of CO2.
All radios now come with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, while the next level up is equipped with a CD player. The premium radio integrates with the Renault R-Link system. Also available is new-generation ESC combined with Hill Start Assist, plus Grip for improved traction in difficult conditions.
March 2014
Renault Kangoo Extra launched
Special edition model comes with air conditioning, reversing sensors and satellite navigation plus the Renault R-Link multimedia system. This system incorporates integrated TomTom Live satellite navigation, plus numerous functions, such as advance warning of hazardous zones and the ability to download applications like the reading out of emails.
The new Kangoo in the range also comes equipped with a full steel bulkhead and is powered by a 1.5 dCi 90PS engine.
November 2015
Kangoo range updated for 2016
The improvements mean that there is now substantial standard specification across the Kangoo range with every trim level receiving DAB radio with Bluetooth, USB and AUX ports as standard.
Every Kangoo Van and Kangoo Van Z.E. panel van will now have a full steel bulkhead separating the passenger and cargo compartments, providing greater safety for occupants in the event of an accident whilst also ensuring that loads are securely located. In Crew Van Cab models, the bulkhead is a multi-positional feature giving owners the flexibility to vary passenger and cargo space.
The new range now includes Business and Business+ trim levels, aligning with the Renault Trafic and Renault Master. Standard equipment also includes ECO mode, load area lighting, roof bar fixings, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Start Assist and Grip Xtend, electric front windows, Titanium upholstery, electric variable power steering, a front 12-volt power socket, grey side protection moulds, , anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), a driver’s airbag a height-adjustable driver’s seat, deadlocks, the Renault anti-intruder device (R.A.I.D.) and remote central locking.
All-new features specific to the Kangoo Maxi Crew Van and Maxi Crew Van Cab include left and right side sliding doors, interior side panel and an extra row of three folding passenger seats split one-third/two-thirds.
Further new features on Business+ models include electrically operated folding door mirrors, one-touch descending electric front windows, a centre console with armrest, an overhead parcel shelf, rubber flooring in the load area, manual air conditioning, body-coloured front bumper and rear parking sensors.
July 2016
Renault Kangoo gets Euro6 engines
In order to conform to Euro6 legislation, Renault has reduced the amount of NOx (Nitrous Oxides) produced by the Renault Kangoo’s engines with the addition of a NOx trap.
All Renault Kangoo Maxi versions will feature the ENERGY engines – offering fuel economy of up to 62.8mpg (NEDC Combined) – that work to optimise fuel consumption and reduce total cost of ownership with such features as Stop & Start technology. The popular standard length Kangoo (ML) will be solely available with ENERGY engines until the start of 2017, when more engines will be added to the range.
September 2017
Kangoo now available with EDC gearbox
Renault’s Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission has been introduced to the Kangoo range for the first time. The automatic gearbox will be offered with the dCi 90 and dCi 110 versions of Europe’s best-selling van.
The EDC automatic transmission adds 28kg in weight compared with the manual, but the Kangoo dCi 90 EDC achieves fuel economy of up to 55.4mpg on the combined cycle (NEDC) and emits just 136g/km of CO 2 .
The Kangoo EDC’s diesel engines are also available with Renault’s ECO mode, cutting fuel consumption by up to 10%. Actionable by the driver, the mode modifies the management of the gearbox ECU (Electronic Control Unit), enabling gear shifts at lower rpm.
April 2018
Renault vans now available with supplied sign writing
Ordered at the same time, or soon after, the van sale is completed, the sign writing is created within three standard templates. These allow the customer to add their logo, expertise/services offered, a website address and business telephone number. Font type and colour can also be specified. The signs are for the each side of the van and the rear doors or tailgate.
Package 1 - Sides and rear. Choice of 10 x fonts and 10 colours. Company name / Services description / Tel number / Website. Positioning of elements as pre-defined. Pricing – Kangoo £215 ex VAT, Trafic £275 ex VAT, Master £360 ex VAT
Package 2 - Sides and rear. Choice of 10 x fonts and 10 colours. Company name / Services description / Tel number / Website / Logo sides and rear. Positioning of elements as pre-defined. Kangoo £270 ex VAT, Trafic £350 ex VAT, Master £435 ex VAT
Package 3 - Sides and rear. Unlimited Choice of fonts/. Company name / Services description / Tel number / Website / Logo sides and rear logos. Positioning of elements as pre-defined. Kangoo £360 ex VAT, Trafic £450 ex VAT, Master £535 ex VAT
November 2018
Kangoo Premier Edition
launched Gets a leather steering wheel, cruise control, metallic paint, and 15-inch ‘ARIA’ black alloy wheels. Customers can choose from a choice of efficient 1.5-litre dCi engines, which, depending on version, are complemented with a five- or six-speed manual gearbox, or the option of a six-speed EDC automatic transmission. The Premier Edition can be specified in three body styles – Panel Van, Maxi Van, and Crew Van.
