2018 Renault Koleos Intens 4WD Review

After becoming a dad, my perspective on cars and reviewing their features and functionality has changed somewhat.

Less is it about fun, cool tech and performance and more focused on practicality, space and ISOFIX ports.

Boring huh?

After spending more than a couple of weeks in the Renault Koleos Intens I can safely say it is a fantastic family car.

The Koleos is attractive, spacious in the cabin and boot, is great to drive and the upper grade has a decent list of specs and safety features.

Exterior

It’s a well-known fact that the Koleos shares the same platform as the Nissan X-Trail. So from the outside the exterior profile appears the same.

Much like the rest of the models in the Renault range, it has the same sleek design, enhanced by the solid 18” alloys, an imposing, aggressive grille with c-shaped lights, all adorned in chrome highlights making is really standout.

Worth adding that the maroon colour of this particular vehicle is rather fetching.

One annoying thing (which happens in all Renault’s) is the super vigilant auto-lock. You can’t walk around the front of the car without the vehicle automatically locking itself.

I know it’s for the sake of safety but not being able to wind down the windows unless you turn the ignition on can get irritating.

Though it is easy to get in and out of as well as get going again, with the auto-lock and auto park brake with auto release.

Interior

The cabin is adorned in leather trims and leather seats in a classy presentation.

The dashboard is more ‘vertical’ than elongated like in the Renault Megane, to match its SUV shape.

It is spacious and roomy and I had no issue fitting everything (and everyone) inside or alighting from and climbing aboard.

Speaking of space, the boot is wide with a flat floor (underneath is the spare tyre), and this is easily expanded with rear seat releases latches in the boot, which also houses a cargo blind.

The seat backs themselves have a convenient, no-fuss, ring release on the top for quick transformations.

The rest of the interior has copious storage options especially in the centre console.

In the rear, passengers have two USB charging stations situated under the air vents so no one is left out.

Features

Probably the most exciting technology features in the Intens grade are the powered tailgate, a large panoramic sunroof and park assist.

A vertical 7” touchscreen sits in the middle of the dash with sat-nav and R-Link installed similar to rest of the Renault range.

Seats are electrically operated, leather, heated and ventilated seats. The leather is fitted tightly and the stitching adds a bit of flair.

A retractable armrest sits in the middle along with the electric park brake and speed limiter/cruise control switch.

Drive and Engine

This latest diesel variant boasts a 130kW/380Nm, 2.0 litre turbo engine which is great option from the petrol specs.

While the pickup is a bit delayed it isn’t sluggish and offers enough go forward for average driving though it isn’t a powerhouse by any means.

The engine, of course, has the distinctive diesel engine rattle which is almost inaudible from the inside with superior sound proofing.

A CVT is not always my first choice of transmission but this did a satisfactory job and didn’t seem to get in the way.

I drove the SUV around for just over two weeks and only filled up once with economical fuel consumption of 9.6L/100km.

This Koleos Intens comes with 4WD lock for some light off-roading situations but this was not tested.

Safety

Safety is one of its strong points sporting driver aids like blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning and lane departure warning.

However, the current Koleos model has not yet been tested by ANCAP.

Good Bits

• Neatly presented
• Comprehensive features
• Good diesel performance
• Fuel economy
• Safety technology
• Space and storage

Not so good bits

• Sensitive auto-lock

Summary

A terrific family car that is comfortable and practical with a bit of luxury.

It drives well, possessing good power from the new diesel engine.

Fitted with conveniences like a powered tailgate, auto-lock, auto release park brake and priced from $47,490, it’s an SUV that should be on everyone’s radar.

Facts and Figures: 2018 Renault Koleos Intens 4WD

• Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo diesel 130kW/380Nm
• Transmission: CVT
• Warranty: 5 Years
• Safety: Not yet tested
• Origin: South Korea
• Price: From $47,490