Renault introduced the new Koleos in South Africa in 2019, followed by an updated version in September 2021. The French manufacturer’s flagship SUV has cemented its presence on South African roads with its stylish looks, driving comfort, and all around utility – which compelled us to put the Renault Koleos 2.5 Dynamique to the test as a daily driver in and around the Mother City.
Design: A Bold Statement
Featuring assertive styling and a stronger presence, the Koleos embodies Renault’s new design language. The overall design exudes confidence and elegance, making the Koleos a head-turner on the road.
The front-end design is enhanced with a pronounced grille and chrome-underlined fog lamps, giving it an adventurous stance with a hint of luxury. The eye-catching C-shaped Daytime Running Lights extend beyond the new LED headlight units to create an even more forceful gaze, while the new wider LED tail lights serve to amplify the impression of width and draw attention to the centrally-positioned Renault diamond.
Pure Vision Full LED main- and dipped- beam lights significantly enhance night-time visibility, and the permanently-lit tail lights, with integrated dynamic rear indicators, feature Edge Light technology that generates a clear, bright 3D effect, visible both close up and from a distance.
The Koleos ticks all the SUV styling codes associated with the segment, including taut lines that combine a rugged stance with head-turning looks, along with side protective mouldings, and 18” two-tone alloy wheels.
Interior: Sophistication and Comfort
The interior of the Koleos offers a practical layout with touches of luxury. Satin chrome inserts, foamed materials, and plush upholstery create a refined ambiance. The driving position, enhanced by the tee-shaped dashboard, provides excellent visibility. The large centrally-positioned dashboard display, up to 8.7 inches, is practical and adds a touch sophistication.
The cabin is spacious, offering generous headroom, knee room, and shoulder room for all occupants. The rear seats are among the largest in its class, ensuring maximum comfort and ample legroom. Additionally, the configurable boot with 579 litres of load space can be increased to 1,795 litres by folding the 60/40 split rear seats. Practical storage solutions includin an 11-litre glove box and 7-litre cubby in the centre console.
Night time travel is further enhanced through customisable LED cabin lighting, with a palette of hues ranging from green and blue, to yellow, red or violet, to complement the mood of the driver or passengers. A noteworthy feature is the front cup holder that can be chilled or heated.
Technology: Safety and Connectivity
The Koleos is equipped with advanced technological features that prioritise safety, connectivity, and convenience. Boasting a Euro NCAP five-star rating, the Koleos comes standard with brakes assisted by ABS, EBD, EBA, ESC and Hill Start Assist (HAS). A comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems include Blind Spot Warning, 360˚ Park Assist and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A suite of six airbags complement the driver-assistance systems, as do the LED Pure Vision headlamps that improve visibility at night. A full screen Apple CarPlay system, compatible with Android Auto, offers seamless smartphone integration, while the R-LINK 2 Sat Nav and Multimedia system, available in 7″ or 8.7″ screens, provides easy access to navigation, apps, and phone calls. The Koleos also offers a voice recognition system and two USB portals now located under the centre console, at the base of the gear lever, for greater convenience.
Performance: Smooth and Predictable
Motivated by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, the same engine that powers the Nissan X-Trail, the Koleos delivers maximum power of 126 kW @ 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 233 Nm @ 4,000 rpm. Coupled with Renault’s X-Tronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Koleos performs a reasonable sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds (9.8 seconds for the Dynamique 4WD), while maintaining an impressive fuel consumption rating of 8.3l/100 km.
Although we did not get to experience the Koleos 2.5 Dynamique 4WD, Renault assures us that it excels in off-road capabilities, road-holding, and reliability. With its robust design and high ground clearance of up to 210mm, it can conquer various terrains with ease, while the ALL MODE 4×4-i transmission ensures optimal traction in all conditions, allowing drivers to choose between 2WD, 4WD AUTO, or 4WD LOCK modes.
While the X-Tronic transmission performs more like a multi-ratio automatic, this type of transmission performs best when accelerating slightly, as in heavy traffic, for example. You also have the option to select a seven-speed sequential mode to benefit from engine braking.
In our experience, the CVT, while efficient, may exhibit a slight “rubber band” effect when you fully engage the accelerator. As a driver, adapting your approach becomes paramount, particularly during overtaking manoeuvres, which may require a delicate touch.
Despite its modest speed aspirations, the Koleos surprises with its agility, effortlessly navigating corners with its nimble handling and minimal body roll. Even on undulating surfaces, the Koleos glides seamlessly over the typical bumps and ruts, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for all occupants.
Last Word
Renault continues to surprise with its standards of comfort, safety, and driveability with the Koleos. This very French SUV combines prestigious design, state-of-the-art technology, and high-end refinement with a truly pleasant driving experience. Its bold exterior design, luxurious interior, advanced features, and good allround performance make it an excellent choice in the large SUV segment. More than anything, the Koleos proves its mettle in day-to-day driving, making it the perfect companion for your regular commute or a rejuvenating weekend getaway for the whole family.
Range & Pricing
Koleos 2.5 Dynamique: R596,999
Koleos 2.5 Dynamique 4WD: R646,999
