2015 Renault Kadjar
Once upon a time you could be pretty sure that any car with a rugged 4x4 shape of the Renault Kadjar was a proper off-roader, those times however have now gone.
Nowadays SUVs are more popular than ever but as practical family cars with a bit of extra style rather than true-blue mud-pluggers. In fact style is something the Kadjar has plenty of. The overall proportions are very similar to those of the Nissan Qashqai the car with which the Kadjar shares pretty much all its mechanicals. However, the Kadjar does add its own pinch of Gallic flair to the recipe.
The big V-shape grille is a design que shared with other Renault models as are the funky indents in the doors. Also, the back end has more than a hint of Clio about it thanks to the short-strip taillights and curvy haunches.
Entry level Expression Plus models aren’t quite as smart as other Kadjars because they miss out on the alloy wheels that come as standard across the rest of the range. The poshest model meanwhile, the Signature, comes with LED headlamps and painted scuff-plates.
Once you’re inside the Kadjar you’ll notice a mixture of positives and negatives. For example, you’ll find that the driver’s seat is really comfortable and you’ll have a fantastic view outside in all directions. You’ll also find yourself surrounded by some really plush feeling materials especially around the dashboard. However, one or two of the other panels feel harder, scratchier and a little drab. Also, the touchscreen infotainment system can’t be described as the most intuitive there is on the market. What’s more some of the switches are located in some really weird positions. For example, you turn on the cruise control with a small switch located down by the gear lever but you operate it using controls on the steering wheel. Where the cabin really impresses is on practicality. There is an abundance of room in the back seats for two adults and the boot space is really big and well-shaped. There are some really handy touches too like the levers for folding the spring loaded rear seats down and the moveable boot floor panels for levelling off the load area.
The Kadjar’s family friendly nature continues once you hit the road. It’s certainly a comfortable car in which to transport your loved ones. Importantly the ride is nice and smooth even on the 19inch wheels of the Dynamique S variant. The handling feels really stable and controlled. Add to that the nicely weighted steering, a crisp gearshift and lightly sprung pedals then what you’ve got is a car that’s really relaxing and easy to drive.
You’ll find the 1.5 diesel engine smooth and quiet and despite the fact that it’s only got 108bhp it’s remarkably flexible thanks to the strong pull you get at the very bottom of the rev range. The engine also delivers Co2 emissions of just 99gkm and fuel economy of 74mpg. All of this makes it very affordable to run compared with its rivals.
The role of the modern SUV is to provide stylish family transport and it’s a role that the Kadjar totally nails. It’s comfortable, relaxing to drive, massively practical and affordable to buy and run. Granted, the interior could be a bit glitzier but even so this car should definitely be on your shopping list! Find both new and used Renault Kadjars on DesperateSeller.co.uk today!
