Kangoo packed to please

Renault's new-generation light commercial van is bigger, more refined
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With a larger load area, greater load carrying capacity, the choice of an auto-transmission petrol or manual turbodiesel engine and the extra refinement that comes from its Renault Scenic origins, the latest Kangoo is a promising contender in the minuscule-LCV segment.

The new Kangoo offers a 3.0 cubic metre load capability and, in diesel form, will tote as much as 800kg. The auto petrol version cuts load capacity back to 650kg, but that is still 120kg up on the previous model.

Overall, the new Kangoo is 178mm longer and 102mm wider than before, with a 1731mm load length that is up 60mm on the outgoing model. It now measures 1218mm between the rear wheelarches and will accept loads up to 635mm wide through the sliding side door. Asymmetric rear doors open to as much as 180 degrees for easy loading.

The four-speed auto-only petrol engine displaces 1.6 litres and produces 78kW/148Nm, while the five-speed manual, 1.5-litre common rail turbodiesel produces 63kW/200Nm.

The petrol version returns 8.3L/100km, while the turbodiesel manages 5.2L/100km to claim best in class fuel economy. Emissions aren't too shabby, at least in the diesel, which claims an impressive 137g/km.

The Kangoo lists air-conditioning, power front windows, trip computer and heated, powered side mirrors as standard.

Anti-lock, all-disc braking is standard, while the driver's job is made easier via Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control with speed limiter. A load area liner and rear internal lighting are also standard.

Optional equipment includes ESP stability control, traction and understeer control (petrol only), front passenger and side airbags, a right-side sliding cargo door and rear parking sensors.

According to Renault Australia managing director Justin Hocevar: "Renault is the foremost supplier of light commercial vehicles in Europe, and since launch in 1997 the Renault Kangoo has been the number one seller in its segment in Europe for the past 12 consecutive years. Around three million variants have been sold in that time, including the passenger variants."

Kangoo driveaway price, for either petrol auto or diesel manual versions, is $25,990.