Did you know that the first Renault Koleos concept was presented way back in 2000 as a mix of SUV and minivan designs? The production version arrived seven years later, with a slightly different design approach, adapted to the market requirements of the time.
The Renault Koleos is a typical family SUV, which competes with models like Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Like most French cars, it stands out in terms of comfort and relaxed ride. Still, it also offers pretty good overall engineering, which is no wonder because both generations were developed with Nissan engineers.
Also, we can all agree that the Koleos name perfectly fits its nature, considering that this is one of the largest models in the class.
The First Generation of Renault Koleos (2007-2015)
Seven years after the concept, the production version arrived. Before this arrival, Renault was well-known for excellent minivans, but the new era of the automotive industry set new requirements. Buyers wanted the practicality of minivans in a more attractive housing, so it was time for Renault to introduce a real family SUV.
The first-generation Renault Koleos was designed by the French automaker, while the SUV’s mechanical part was done mainly by Nissan engineers, who had way more experience with this type of vehicle at the time. It’s no wonder that most of the parts are shared with Nissan X-trail (aka Nissan Rogue in other parts of the world). These two models ride on the same platform and feature the same mechanics.
The wheelbase was also the same as in the X-trail (2,690mm), though the overall size was slightly smaller. The original Koleos is 4,520mm in total length, 1,855mm wide, and 1,695mm high.
The chassis setup was also pretty much the same on both models. At the front, the Renault Koleos featured a typical McPherson setup, while the rear suspension is independent. All four wheels come with ventilated disc brakes. The ground clearance is 206mm, which is quite respectable for the class.
The Australian model debuted in 2008 with just two grades on the offer (Dynamique and Privilege), but two more trim levels were added in 2010 (Dynamique Leather and Expression).
Renault Koleos Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 2,690mm
- Height: 1,690mm
- Length: 4,520mm
- Width: 1,805mm
- Ground clearance: 206mm
- Weight: 1,639–1,784 kg
Engines
For the Australian market, the new SUV was offered with two engines. The first one was Nissan’s well-known 2.5-litre inline-four petrol, with Renault’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel as optional. The gasoline engine was offered with either 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox, while the diesel version used a 6-speed automatic instead of the CVT.
If you look at any Renault Koleos review, it turns out that the diesel option is a better choice because of a much better fuel economy. Also, most buyers would rather pick a traditional automatic instead of a CVT.
All-wheel drive was available in combination with either engine.
Renault Koleos 2.5 Petrol Engine Specs
- Engine Capacity: 2488cc
- Number of cylinders: 4
- Fuel type: Premium Unleaded Petrol
- Transmission: 6-speed manual/CVT
- Fuel consumption: 9.6L/100km (combined)
- Maximum torque: 226Nm
- Maximum power: 126kW
- Acceleration (0-100km/h): 9.3s
Renault Koleos 2.0 Diesel Engine Specs
- Engine Capacity: 1995cc
- Number of cylinders: 4
- Fuel type: Diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed manual/6-speed automatic
- Fuel consumption: 7.9L/100km (combined)
- Maximum torque: 360Nm (manual); 320Nm (automatic)
- Maximum power: 127kW (manual); 110kW (automatic)
- Acceleration (0-100km/h): 10.4s
Facelift (2011)
The 2011 Renault Koleos came with notable updates. The biggest ones were those at the front end, where we saw a completely new face, with a new grille, headlights, and bumper, but the rear part of the vehicle remained pretty much untouched. This update also brought typical mid-cycle changes like new wheels and colour options.
Renault also added more standard features, while equipment groups were reorganized as well. As a result, we saw new grades, such as Bose SE and familiar Expression and Privilege grade names.
The Second Generation of Renault Koleos (2016-present)
The first-generation model was in production for nearly nine years, and logically, the new-generation model has brought so-much-needed updates. The second-generation Renault Koleos once again came with many things in common with Nissan X-Trail, and this time, they both ride on a modern CMF platform.
Unlike the original model, the new Koleos is bigger than its Nissan sibling. The wheelbase is the same (2,705mm), but Renault’s model is notably longer. As a result, the current Koleos is among the biggest models in the segment, with the class-leading headroom. Also, the ground clearance is now 210 millimetres.
This redesign has also brought new grades, with names that characterised other contemporary models from Renault. Those are Life, Zen, Initiale and Intens.
Renault Koleos Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 2705mm
- Height: 1678mm
- Length: 4672mm
- Width: 1834mm
- Ground clearance: 210mm
- Weight: 1520-1654 kg
- Turning circle: 11.4m
Engines
The engine lineup was mostly carried over from the previous generation. Base models continued with the 2.5-litre inline-four petrol and 2.0-litre turbodiesel but with slight improvements regarding power, fuel economy, and overall efficiency. Also, a manual transmission is no longer available.
All-wheel drive is available in a configuration with both petrol and diesel engine.
Renault Koleos 2.5 Petrol Engine Specs
- Engine Capacity: 2488cc
- Number of cylinders: 4
- Fuel type: Premium Unleaded Petrol
- Transmission: CVT
- Fuel consumption: 8.3L/100km (combined)
- Maximum torque: 226Nm
- Maximum power: 126kW
Renault Koleos 2.0 Diesel Engine Specs
- Engine Capacity: 1995cc
- Number of cylinders: 4
- Fuel type: Diesel
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Fuel consumption: 6.1L/100km (combined)
- Maximum torque: 380Nm
- Maximum power: 130kW
Renault Koleos Facelift (2020)
The 2020 model brought a mid-cycle update. Changes were numerous but rather subtle, particularly regarding styling. The only significant change we saw was a new bumper. A few more changes have been made inside, but the biggest difference compared to the pre-facelifted model is under the hood. A turbodiesel is no longer available, so the only Koleos you can get new is the one with a 2.5-litre petrol engine and CVT gearbox. The Renault Koleos price currently starts at around $33,000.
This update has also brought a new special version, called the Renault Koleos Black Edition, which is based on the mid-range Zen grade, but comes with several visual upgrades, starting from a unique LED lighting and lots of blacked exterior details, such as mirrors and roof rails, to name a few. Furthermore, there are unique 19-inch black wheels and lots of "Black Edition" badges. Finally, there are three exclusive paint options at no extra charge - Metallic Black, Metallic Grey and Universal White.
What are the problems of Renault Koleos?
When it comes to Renault Koleos problems, it’s good to know that the first generation is generally a reliable car. There are no major engine issues, whether you choose petrol or a diesel version. However, one of the potential issues could be rust in the subframe.
The interior quality isn't spectacular, so you should expect a little bit of strange noise coming out from the dashboard. Finally, there is always a chance to experience a few in-car electrics issues, typical for most Renault models.
The second generation has been around for less than five years, so it's early to talk about major Renault Koleos problems. Still, there were a few minor problems reported regarding DPF and exhaust system in general, fuel injection system and power steering system.
A good thing to know is that replacement parts for Renault models are usually cheaper than the competition. If you're looking for parts for your Koleos or any other Renault model, the easiest way to find them is to request them on our website, and we will help you locate the best sellers with the best deals for you.
By Nebojsa Grmusa