Introduction
It is easy to forget that, with all the hoo-ha regarding the plethora of major van launches this year, there are some perfectly capable load-carriers around which have been doing their service without complaint. And while newer is generally regarded as better, it is by no means the final word.
Stepping up to the Euro-4 plate is the oft-forgotten Renault Kangoo (also masquerading as a Nissan Kubistar – something to do with Renault owning Nissan). Its cute exterior shuns the current trend for purposefully designed CVs such as the Transit Connect, and its lightweight build makes it considerably lighter than the current CM favourite, the Volkswagen Caddy (1,890kg vs. 2,235kg GVW).
Product Profile
But less weight shouldn’t mean less ability. Indeed, it can add to a vehicle’s manoeuvrability and thus ease of driving – especially in the urban environment. Power comes from a 1.5 litre Euro-4 common-rail engine producing 60, 70 or 85hp, which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox – there are also two petrol variants, a 1.2 litre and a 1.6 litre (the latter coming with automatic transmission).
Payloads are broadly split between two versions. The SL17 is rated at 625kg while the SL19 can carry 800kg.
Standard equipment includes ABS, tubular bulkhead, CD radio and remote central locking – though not much else. But delve into the options list and there are plenty of useful extras that can be added.
Our advice is to plump for the ‘+’ pack, which adds electric windows, rubber load floor covering, parcel shelf and side loading door among other practical features.
Prices start at £9,850 for the basic SL17 dCi with 60hp, while our test vehicle (SL19+ with 85hp rating) comes in at £11,400.
Productivity
Euro-4 has improved the emission levels, but that has not been to the detriment of the Kangoo’s fuel economy. A laden run around the Kent test route produced an impressive 49.6mph, putting the Kangoo in the upper echelons of its class. Unladen, the figure was an equally creditable 55.8mpg.
In the rear, the low loading lip makes getting the payload in an easy task. This is further helped by the offset rear doors that open 180o once released from their immediate latches.
Further (optional) features on our test vehicle included the recommended protective load liner, the side securing rail with fixing rings for larger items and the folding passenger seat and swivel bulkhead, complete with secure storage compartment.
But while the layout and design of the load area hits all the right notes, it also feels lightweight in its build. This may be an issue if you’re going to be carrying some serious weight.
Don’t get us wrong, the overall quality of construction is solid – but the side panels and rear doors lack that extra reinforcement you would find in larger panel vans.
