The Renault Koleos has been around since 2007, in Europe since 2008. It is manufactured by Samsung in South Korea. Directly above this text you can see the original model, while below, the face-lifted 2011 model is shown.



This all-wheel drive doesn't really have any special features, apart from the fact that, according to Renault, it's only 6 kilogrammes heavier than the 4X2 version. Having a look at the vehicle from which this Koleos emerged, you'll find a much greater difference, with the same engine. Indeed, the Nissan X-Trail has a continuously variable transmission with electronic regulation for various off-road situations.

At this point, one can already summarise, that the most reasonable version of the Koleos is fairly 'inexpensive'. There is also a 'Delux'-package, which certainly can be brought into the shortlist. However, those who place a high value on design, sound or even a panorama-roof, are really going to have to pay a lot more. It's also odd, that the larger engine should cost so much more. An automatic-transmission is a similar case, this could even justify moving towards the VW Tiguan, which has about the same price-tag.

Let's go back to the, all together well fitted Limited-version, whose price cannot really be underbid, even by the Ford Kuga, which fortunately, does no credit to the name, it does however, fulfil a number of wishes as far as the design is concerned. It also has the two-part tailgate, an automatic two-zone air-conditioner and an online media-system with a 5,8 inch screen and including a hands-free device and Sat-Nav for the whole of Europe.

Comparing it with the Tiguan does make sense anyhow. This way, one can see whether Renault has drawn any profit from the one year later appearance. Obviously they haven't, e.g., since this car could have had something to counteract the pretty conservative styling of the Tiguan. The braking qualities of the car, which is only offered with off-road tyres, is also criticised. At least one is spared having to lay out for winter tyres. Indeed, the trend towards less off-road ability, can be clearly seen in these vehicles.

The rear-wheel drive can at least, be completely disengaged, this of course, doesn't mean that the vehicle has the lower fuel consumption of a two-wheel drive. The Koleos is sprung much softer than the Tiguan, which, together with the very cautious ESP, does not always give the impression of being completely trustworthy. In addition, whether the Koleos's two-part tailgate or the separately opening rear window like in the Kuga, are worth the increased effort and the increased weight, remains to be seen. 01/15