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Renault Kangoo

A Legacy of Versatility and Innovation. Exploring the evolution of Renault's iconic multi-purpose vehicle.

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Vehicle Overview

Defining Versatility

The Renault Kangoo is a distinguished family of vehicles, encompassing both passenger multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs). Since its introduction in 1997, across three distinct generations, the Kangoo has established itself as a benchmark for practicality and adaptability in the automotive market.

Collaborative Engineering

The Kangoo's development and market presence have been significantly shaped by strategic collaborations. It has been marketed as a rebadged variant by Nissan (as the Kubistar, NV250, and Townstar) and Mercedes-Benz (as the Citan, T-Class, and EQT), underscoring its robust platform and broad appeal.

Pioneering Electric Mobility

Notably, the Kangoo has been at the forefront of electric vehicle adoption in its segment. The Kangoo Z.E. (Zero Emission) variant emerged as Europe's leading all-electric light commercial vehicle, demonstrating Renault's commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.

Generational Evolution

First Generation (X76; 1997–2009)

Launched in October 1997, the first-generation Kangoo immediately captured attention for its practical design, offering both passenger (FC) and commercial (KC) variants. It received a significant facelift in March 2003, adopting Renault's contemporary styling cues. Key features included removable rear seats and windows for van configurations, and specialized adaptations for wheelchair accessibility. Four-wheel drive versions and a lengthened cargo variant were also introduced, alongside a pickup version for the Swedish market.

  • Production Span: Europe (1997–2009), Latin America (1998–2018).
  • Rebadged Variants: Nissan Kubistar (2003–2009).
  • Special Editions: Kangoo Break'Up concept (2002), Kangoo Trekka 4x4 (2002).
  • Notable Features: Wheelchair accessibility adaptations, optional 4WD, extended wheelbase versions.

Second Generation (X61; 2007–2021)

Based on the Renault Scénic platform, the second-generation Kangoo debuted in May 2007, offering enhanced comfort and technology. It was produced in Maubeuge, France. This generation saw the introduction of different wheelbase configurations: Compact, Express, and Maxi. A distinctive three-door variant, the Kangoo Be Bop, was also produced but had limited commercial success. The significant development during this era was the Kangoo Z.E., a fully electric version launched in 2011, which quickly became a leader in its segment.

  • Production Span: 2007–2021.
  • Platform: Renault–Nissan C platform.
  • Rebadged Variants: Mercedes-Benz Citan (2012 onwards), Nissan NV250 (2019–2021).
  • Body Styles: Compact, Express, Maxi wheelbases; passenger (LAV) and panel van versions.
  • Special Editions: Kangoo Be Bop (2009–2011).
  • Electric Variant: Kangoo Z.E. (2011–2021), recognized as International Van of the Year 2012.

Third Generation (XFK; 2020–Present)

Revealed in November 2020, the third-generation Kangoo represents a significant modernization, built on the advanced CMF-CD platform. It is produced at the ElectriCity Maubeuge Plant. This generation introduced a distinct separation from the lower-spec Renault Express model. The Kangoo E-Tech Electric, launched in 2022, builds upon the legacy of its predecessor with improved battery technology and performance.

  • Production Span: 2020–Present.
  • Platform: Renault–Nissan CMF-CD platform.
  • Rebadged Variants: Mercedes-Benz Citan/T-Class/EQT, Nissan Townstar.
  • Body Styles: L1 and L2 wheelbases, passenger (LAV) and panel van versions.
  • Electric Variant: Kangoo Van E-Tech Electric (2022–Present).
  • Safety Rating: Achieved 4 stars from Euro NCAP in 2021.

Key Variants & Collaborations

Nissan Collaborations

Leveraging the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, the Kangoo platform has served as the basis for several Nissan models. The first generation was rebadged as the Nissan Kubistar (2003–2009). Later, the second generation formed the foundation for the Nissan NV250 (2019–2021), which was subsequently replaced by the Nissan Townstar, based on the third-generation Kangoo.

Mercedes-Benz Partnership

Mercedes-Benz also utilized the Kangoo's platform for its compact van offerings. The second-generation Kangoo served as the basis for the Mercedes-Benz Citan, launched in 2012. The third generation continues this partnership with the Citan, alongside the passenger-oriented T-Class and its electric counterpart, the EQT.

Electric Innovations

Renault's commitment to electrification is prominently displayed through the Kangoo Z.E. and its successor, the Kangoo E-Tech Electric. The Z.E. model, introduced in 2011, was a pioneering electric van, achieving significant sales and accolades. The subsequent E-Tech variant, based on the third-generation platform, offers enhanced range and performance, solidifying the Kangoo's role in sustainable urban logistics and family transport.

Engine and Drivetrain Options

Internal Combustion Engines

Across its generations, the Kangoo has been offered with a diverse range of petrol and diesel engines, catering to various market needs and performance requirements. These typically include efficient four-cylinder units, with displacements ranging from 1.2L to 1.6L for petrol engines and 1.5L to 1.9L for diesel engines. Specific engine codes, such as Renault's K4M petrol and K9K diesel, highlight the shared powertrain technologies within the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

First Generation (Selected):

  • Petrol: 1.2L (D4F), 1.4L (E7J), 1.6L (K4M)
  • Diesel: 1.5L dCi (K9K), 1.9L F Series (F8Q, F9Q)

Second Generation (Selected):

  • Petrol: 1.2L HRA2 (H5Ft), 1.6L K4M
  • Diesel: 1.5L K9K

Third Generation (Selected):

  • Petrol: 1.3L H5Ht Turbo
  • Diesel: 1.5L K9K Blue dCi

Electric Powertrains

The Kangoo's electric variants represent a significant technological advancement. The Kangoo Z.E. (second generation) featured a 44 kW AC synchronous motor powered by a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering an NEDC range of approximately 170 km. The later Kangoo Z.E. Power+ (2017) upgraded to a 33 kWh battery, extending the range to 270 km (NEDC). The current Kangoo E-Tech Electric (third generation) utilizes a 90 kW motor and a 45 kWh battery, providing an estimated WLTP range of 285–300 km.

Kangoo Z.E. (Gen 2):

  • Motor: 44 kW AC synchronous
  • Battery: 22 kWh (later 33 kWh)
  • Range: 170 km (NEDC) / 270 km (NEDC Power+)

Kangoo E-Tech Electric (Gen 3):

  • Motor: 90 kW (120 hp)
  • Battery: 45 kWh
  • Range: 285–300 km (WLTP)
  • Charging: Up to 80 kW DC / 22 kW AC (optional)

Dimensional Specifications

First & Second Generation

The first generation offered a standard wheelbase with dimensions around 4,035 mm in length and 2,605 mm wheelbase. The second generation expanded this flexibility, introducing multiple wheelbase options: Compact (approx. 3,898 mm length, 2,313 mm wheelbase), Express (approx. 4,213 mm length, 2,679 mm wheelbase), and Maxi (approx. 4,666 mm length, 3,081 mm wheelbase). These variations allowed for tailored cargo capacity and passenger space.

First Generation (Approximate):

  • Length: 4,035 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,605 mm

Second Generation:

  • Compact: Length 3,898 mm, Wheelbase 2,313 mm
  • Express: Length 4,213 mm, Wheelbase 2,679 mm
  • Maxi: Length 4,666 mm, Wheelbase 3,081 mm

Third Generation Dimensions

The third generation Kangoo continues the trend of offering distinct lengths, designated as L1 and L2. The L1 variant measures 4,486 mm in length with a 2,716 mm wheelbase, while the longer L2 variant extends to 4,910 mm with a 3,100 mm wheelbase. These dimensions provide substantial interior volume, with cargo capacities ranging from 3.3 m³ for the L1 to 4.2 m³ for the L2, and interior widths accommodating practical loading.

Third Generation:

  • L1 Variant:
    • Exterior Length: 4,486 mm (176.6 in)
    • Wheelbase: 2,716 mm (106.9 in)
    • Interior Length: 1,806 mm (71.1 in)
    • Volume: 3.3 m³ (120 cu ft)
  • L2 Variant:
    • Exterior Length: 4,910 mm (193.3 in)
    • Wheelbase: 3,100 mm (122.0 in)
    • Interior Length: 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
    • Volume: 4.2 m³ (150 cu ft)
  • Interior Width: 1,570 mm (61.8 in)
  • Width between wheel arches: 1,248 mm (49.1 in)

Safety and Ratings

Euro NCAP Assessment

The third-generation Kangoo, and its rebadged counterparts like the Nissan Townstar, have undergone rigorous safety evaluations. In its 2021 assessment, the Euro NCAP awarded the Kangoo a commendable 4-star overall safety rating. This reflects robust performance across various safety categories, including adult occupant protection (78%), child occupant protection (87%), pedestrian protection (67%), and safety assist technologies (72%).

Euro NCAP Results (2021):

  • Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
  • Adult Occupant: 29.9 points (78%)
  • Child Occupant: 43 points (87%)
  • Pedestrian: 36.6 points (67%)
  • Safety Assist: 11.6 points (72%)

Production Figures

Sales Data Overview

Production and sales figures illustrate the Kangoo's market impact across its generations and associated models. The Nissan NV250 saw significant sales in its initial years (2019-2021). The third-generation models, including the Renault Kangoo, Mercedes Citan/T-Class, and Nissan Townstar, have collectively achieved substantial production volumes since their launch in 2020/2021, indicating sustained demand for this versatile vehicle platform.

Nissan NV250 Production:

  • 2019: 3,561 units
  • 2020: 2,282 units
  • 2021: 4,475 units

Third Generation Production (Annual Totals):

  • 2021: Renault (90,241), Mercedes (approx. unknown), Nissan (approx. unknown)
  • 2022: Renault (58,028), Mercedes (16,004), Nissan (approx. unknown)
  • 2023: Renault (109,760), Mercedes (25,753), Nissan (11,626)

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References

References

  1.  https://www.euroncap.com/en/results/renault/kangoo/43189
A full list of references for this article are available at the Renault Kangoo Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available information. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is based on data available up to the last update and may not reflect the most current specifications, features, or market conditions.

This is not automotive advice. The information provided herein should not substitute professional consultation with automotive experts, dealers, or manufacturers. Always refer to official Renault documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific vehicle inquiries, purchasing decisions, or technical support.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.