Used Renault Kadjar (2015-Present) MK2
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Smooth engines
- Decent handling
- Excellent brakes
- Small amount of body roll
- Sleek shape
- Tepid acceleration
What's the Renault Kadjar like?
There has been a long-standing collaboration between Renault and Nissan involving engines, drivetrains and even complete cars.
And there are many other similar collaborations between manufacturers, which save companies a huge amount in development costs.
Renault and Nissan have shared work on the design and production of both internal combustion engined (ICE) cars and electric models.
And one of the last ICE cars shared between them is the Renault Kadjar, which is based on the Nissan Qashqai, but uses the best from both companies to produce a svelte and sleek crossover that looks more like a larger Captur than anything else – and unmistakably a Renault.
However, don’t be fooled by its looks, only the top of the range diesels are available with 4-wheel drive, so the majority will only fair slightly better than a normal hatch if taken off-road.
Engines
The Kadjar was made between 2015 and 2022 and probably the main seller from the range was the 1.5-litre diesel, one model of which is capable of an incredible 74mpg with very low emissions. It reaches 62mph from rest in about 11.5 seconds.
There are two other diesels – a 1.6-litre and a 1.7-litre. The 1.6-litre has 130bhp and comes with a standard automatic gearbox. It reaches 62mph in 10.7 seconds and should give a very best of 58mpg.
The 1.7-litre has 150bhp and drops the sprint by a second while being rated at 55mpg.
The petrol range includes four different engines at different times, and some are only available with the higher levels of trim.
The lowest powered is a 1.2-litre turbo that has 130bhp and gets to 62mph in 9.8 seconds while managing a best of 50mpg.
Next comes a 1.3-litre turbo with either 140bhp or 160bhp. Both oddly cover the sprint in 9.5 seconds and can do 47mpg.
Finally, there was an earlier 165bhp 1.6-litre turbo that got to 62mph in 8.9 seconds and was also capable of 47mpg.
Driving Experience
They all drive beautifully, with very smooth engines that are willing and easy to live with. The 1.5-litre diesel is quite slow, but it does offer superb economy.
They are also very comfortable over all surfaces, rolling over the worst of lumps and bumps without a murmer, and taking speed humps with disdain.
Peter Hayward
They also cling on very well through the corners, albeit with a little roll as you might expect from such a high sided vehicle.
Manuals all have a 6-speed gearbox with an easy change and a light clutch, and the brakes are excellent.
Interior and Equipment
Refinement is excellent on the move, and all are well insulated from both the road and the passing air.
Despite the sleek shape, there’s plenty of room inside, with good rear legroom and headroom and a big boot.
The Dynamique S Nav in the middle of the range is very well-equipped, and comes with climate control, DAB radio and Bluetooth, good sat nav, remote stereo controls on the steering wheel, voice activation, start/stop, and a system that reads traffic signs and warns when you go over the speed limit.
There’s also lane departure warning, self-levelling headlights, traction control and part leather upholstery.
Find your Renault Kadjar your way with CarStore
If you're looking for an SUV that excels at driving experience and is known for being comfortable, spacious and having great onboard technology, you should consider the Kadjar.
Here at CarStore, you're able to buy your car your way. Whether that be online, in-person, or a mix of both, the choice is yours. With an extensive variety of used cars available, we're sure to have a car that suits your lifestyle.
