RENAULT KOLEOS South Africa: SUV sophistication and simplicity unrivalled

RENAULT KOLEOS South Africa: SUV sophistication and simplicity unrivalled

Bold new exterior styling for the highly regarded Renault crossover Smart technology delivers unrivalled levels of safety and convenience Simplified range now consists of single Dynamique trim level and one engine (2.5-litre petrol) Three drivetrain configurations: 4×2 Manual, 4×4 Manual and 4×4 CVT Genuine versatility retained through impressive on-road and off-road ability Aggressive price positioning […]

By Gerald Ferreira18 May 20124 min read
  • Bold new exterior styling for the highly regarded Renault crossover
  • Smart technology delivers unrivalled levels of safety and convenience
  • Simplified range now consists of single Dynamique trim level and one engine (2.5-litre petrol)
  • Three drivetrain configurations: 4×2 Manual, 4×4 Manual and 4×4 CVT
  • Genuine versatility retained through impressive on-road and off-road ability
  • Aggressive price positioning and excellent competitiveness

Renault Koleos

Since its international launch in 2008, the Renault Koleos has posted sales in excess of

130  000 units globally, and continues to expand its share of this constantly growing, highly competitive segment.

“In South Africa, the model is highly regarded, as its sophisticated platform allows the vehicle to cope perfectly with all on-road and off-road situations” says Fabien Payzan, marketing vice-president of Renault SA.

The new 2012 Koleos boasts a redesigned front end that reasserts the model’s bold character and robustness. The dynamic presence of the new Koleos has been reinforced by new, slimmer headlights and a more muscular front bumper with sculpted recesses for the front fog lights. More streamlined door mirrors are also featured, and now incorporate LED indicators.

Careful attention has been paid to the quality and finish of the cabin for the updated model. A selection of new upholstery and trim materials, including high-grade leather as standard, enhances the overall refinement, while the dashboard has also undergone improvements with the introduction of a modern, more stylish instrument panel.

MPV-like modularity remains a highlight, with a total of 70 litres of stowage incorporated into the dashboard and the centre console, together with under-seat and floor compartments, as well as a useful 28-litre underfloor storage compartment

The clamshell-type split-opening tailgate facilitates convenient access to the boot, which features the innovative ‘easy estate’ system. This enables the split rear seats to be folded down in a single operation.

“With the Koleos Phase Two, we wanted to provide our clients with even more clarity by offering only one trim level, designated Dynamique, with the best of Renault technology as standard” says Payzan.

The list of standard features is, indeed, impressive with ESP, six airbags, on-board navigation, the Renault hands-free card, automatic parking brake, front and rear parking sensors, electric adjustable driver seat, and cruise control only some of the highlights of the comprehensive equipment package.

“We retained a comprehensive level of specification as we want Koleos owners to enjoy a completely safe and hassle-free driving experience, by fully experiencing Renault’s advanced technology”.

Simplicity is still the key word when it comes to the engine offering. Again, Renault SA has opted for only one choice: the excellent 2,5-litre, 16-valve petrol engine, credited with a maximum power output of126 kW of at 6 000 r/min and 226 Nm of torque at 4 400 r/min.

“The 2,5-litre 16-valve unit is highly regarded for its smooth and yet lively response, regardless of the terrain or the situation” adds Payzan. To perfectly match customer needs and aspirations, the engine is matched to a choice of three drivetrain configurations: 4×2 manual, 4×4 manual and 4×4 CVT.

The new Koleos retains the excellent off-road capability of its predecessor. A high ground clearance of 206 mm and excellent approach and departure angles are complemented, on 4X4 versions, by an all-wheel drive system with three driver-selected modes:  Auto, 4×4 LOCK or 2WD. All 4X4 derivatives also come standard with Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

“Regarding the price, we wanted to take into account the current situation of the segment” Payzan explains. “Several aggressively priced models have been launched over the past two years, which triggered inflated discounts for most of the D-SUV contenders.

“In this context, we opted for attractive pricing that reflects the competitive positioning of the Koleos, while allowing us to lower rebates in order to protect resale value”.

PRICING

  • New Koleos 2.5 Dynamique 4×2 – R289 900
  • New Koleos 2.5 Dynamique 4×4 – R314 900
  • New Koleos 2.5 Dynamique 4×4 CVT – R339 900

Pricing includes the industry-defining Renault Confiance package of after-sales back-up and service. A five-year/100 000 km service plan is standard, along with a five-year/150 000 km warranty with 24-hour roadside assistance.

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