The Scénic’s dirt-road cousin
If you’re more of a back-roads guy, the new Renault Koleos won’t disappoint.
The French are often said to be unfriendly and snobbish. And yet, I’m told, many housewives fantasise about French beaus with curly moustaches. The Koleos also has good and questionable qualities. At the top of the negative list is the inexplicable absence of a diesel-engine option and the low-profile 17-inch wheels, which are ill suited to South African gravel roads.
But then there’s the 20,6 cm ground clearance â€" more than 2 cm higher than its competitors. Also, it’s a good-looking car, so I’m tempted to call the Koleos a “she†rather than an “itâ€.
Three versions of the 2.5-litre petrol engine (125 kW, 226 Nm) are available: Dynamique 4x2 (six-speed manual), 4x4 (six-speed manual) and a 4x4 CVT (continuously variable transmission). The silky-smooth CVT is worth experiencing, and its pennypinching fuel consumption is praiseworthy.
As with the Scénic, an electronic key card unlocks the doors and a Start/Stop button on the dash switches the engine on.
All models come with leather upholstery, Sat-Nav, ESP and front and rear parking sensors. The only way to distinguish the 4x4 model from the less expensive 2x4 model is to look at its wheels â€" the alloy rims are different â€" and its headlights, which have cute little washers.
Give her a chance and the Koleos will sweep you off your feet. (But don’t attempt the Sani Pass with the standard tyres…)
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