Driving Renault’s medium sized Koleos SUV, upgraded late last year, our top-selling French passenger vehicle – interestingly sharing Nissan X-Trail’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and CVT continuously variable automatic. I tested the top-spec Koleos Intens 4 x 4 currently 45,490 drive-away but for around town motoring the two wheel drive Intens at $42,990 drive-away will satisfy most – both currently offer a $1,000 cash back and 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty. The Koleos gained some minor style and interior updates – cabin space, comfort and practicality make it an excellent family five-seater with above average luggage space. Engine power and torque is adequate, but its no fire-breather especially with five adults on board, one of the reasons its better in the lighter front drive model.

Economy wise I averaged 9.0 L/100km in mostly city driving. A high point – the 30,000km or 12 month capped price service intervals, twice the distance of many competitors, the first three services a sharp $349 each. The French do great interiors and the leather seats, heated and ventilated in the front, are top class, so too the dashboard with its central portrait style 8.7-inch colour touch screen with Sat Nav and top class Bose sound system. Some elements don’t transfer well from left hand to right hand drive but as an overall package a very nice interior. Not a big seller but distinctive, well-built and well worth consideration.

I’m David Berthon

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