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.
