Glancing at the company's sales literature we got the false impression that latest incarnation of the Kangoo was simply a facelifted version of the outgoing model: a quick wash and brush up to take it through the next few years. How wrong we were. This is effectively a new van offering improved comfort, better styling and significantly enhanced volume and payload capability.
The new Kangoo is offered in two versions: the L1, with an overall length of 4.21m and a choice of 650 or 800kg payload, depending on the tyres and the short-wheelbase with an overall length of 3.83m which will take on the new Fiat Fiorino which was also launched at Amsterdam this week. Now based on the Renault Scenic (the old version was derived from the Clio) the latest Kangoo benefits from a wider wheeltrack which improves its driveability as well as making room for a wider body. The driveline remains virtually unaltered from the previous model, with a choice of petrol and diesel engines driving through a five or 
six-speed box. The L1 uses disc brakes front and rear, while the L0 relies on rear drums.
Attention to detail is key with the Kangoo. For example, to address safety concerns all front body panels are made of plastic which deforms on impact. Not only should this reduce pedestrian injuries in the event of an accident - the panel should re-form after a slight impact which will cut the cost of minor repairs.
On the road
A recent visit to Renault's test track in northern France allowed us the opportunity to try the new Kangoo on a variety of road conditions and the results were impressive. The wider wheel track significantly enhances the cornering capability of the new van, allowing use to hustle the Kangoo along with little chassis or body roll. The redesigned steering is positive, without being twitchy, giving the driver the assurance to press on with a busy schedule.
This enhanced handling is supported by lively engines. We tried the 85hp engine with 
650 and 800kg of payload and while the acceleration was a little slower with that extra 150kg on board, performance remained impressive. The engines also offer decent low-rev torque output which should allow the Kangoo to make progress in traffic without constant recourse to the gear lever.
The revamped interior features a centrally location for the gearstick an array of other controls, which makes this central area rather wide. While the proximity of the accelerator pedal to this console won't be an issue for us in right-hand-drive applications, it is too close for comfort in left-hookers and we found it a little uncomfortable. While we have Renault's ear, we'd like to see the steering wheel made adjustable for rake and reach (currently it's only for rake).
The handbrake level is a cumbersome affair, which at first glance appears unnecessary. In fact Renault engineers say a conventional handbrake isn't robust enough for multi-drop application where drivers routinely use the handbrake to lever themselves out of the van. It also means the handbrake isn't 'handed' as it is in some other products. UK van buyers will be pleased to hear that right-hand-drive Kangoos have been fully designed for the UK application, with little design compromise made when shifting the steering wheel across the cab.
What's new?
- Full redesign inside and out
- Better load capacity
- Now available in two-wheelbase options
Worth it?
- It will be a close contest between the Kangoo and the new Sevel for microvan honours
- Handling is excellent thanks to wider wheeltrack and new steering set-up
CM verdict
The new model is a substantial step forward for the Kangoo, which already has a big following in this sector. With improved handling and better load capability we expect to see the little Renault charging toward the top of the market.