Renault recently revealed the the newest addition to its global portfolio in China. The all-new Koleos will go on sale in Europe next year.
It promises to deliver what is expected of a D-segment SUV with a blend of robust SUV cues including powerful, muscular, exterior lines. Renault is promising unparalleled four-wheel drive technology to go with what it describes as real all-terrain ability thanks to ground clearance of 213mm. Both front and all-wheel drive Koleos models are available. The Koleos will be built on the CMF C/D platform, which is shared with the similarly sized, and probably priced, Nissan X-Trail.
This platform is also the basis of other Renault-Nissan models, including Renault’s Kadjar and the Nissan Qashqai. The French carmaker promises the refinement and features associated with large saloon cars, including a refined, comfortable interior with seats including technology and design among the very best in its category.
It also claims class-leading cabin space, including 289mm of rear knee room and equipment shared with other high-end Renault models, like the R-LINK 2 multimedia tablet. Available engines should include two petrol and two diesel engines, with power outputs ranging between 128bhp and 173bhp. These will be available with either a six-speed manual or Renault-Nissan’s X-Tronic CVT box.
For Renault, the new Koleos comes at a time when SUVs are enjoying strong growth in many markets. For many consumers, this will be their first opportunity to experience Renault in their segment of choice.
In addition to a package that positions the new Koleos as the reference of its class in terms of comfort and refinement, it completes Renault’s high-end range that now includes a crossover, Espace, a large saloon car, Talisman, and its estate variant, Talisman Estate - none of which are available in right-hand drive (RHD ).
However, we can expect to see the new Koleos to be available here in RHD. It will be built in the existing Koleos plant in Busan, South Korea, for all markets except China. The new Koleos is destined for a global audience, with sales in Europe commencing at the beginning of 2017.
