The Renault Kangoo is a small van that sits in the same marketplace as the likes of the Ford Transit Connect, the Volkswagen Caddy and the Vauxhall Combo. Used examples are ideally suited to smaller delivery duties and tradesfolk.
One of the best things about the Renault Kangoo is the value that comes with it, although it’s also comfortable, easy to drive and, crucially, very practical.
Much of the practicality comes from the various van styles that are on offer, with standard and long Maxi body styles to choose from. The majority of Kangoo’s come fitted with a dependable and cheap to run 1.5-litre diesel engine although latterly there’s been a Kangoo Z.E electric version, based around the Renault Zoe.
Although the Renault Kangoo is a little pedestrian to drive, it fits the bill perfectly as a small van that comes with all the basic essentials. It’s very affordable too, which makes it great value alongside the competition.
Other options in the small van category include the Peugeot Partner, Citroen Berlingo and Fiat Doblo.
The Renault Kangoo is well suited to anyone who wants a small panel van that’s perfect for carrying tools and cargo. It’s not the most refined van on the used market, but it is very affordable, which makes it easy to forgive the Kangoo any shortcomings.
A prime example is the long Maxi edition, which offers plenty of space in the shape of 4.6 cubic metres, while the payload is a generous 800kg. That makes it suitable for all kinds of trades and cargo-carrying duties.
If you plump for the 1.5 dCi diesel engine you’ll be rewarded with enough power to lug loads around while enjoying some decent miles per gallon figures too. Alternatively, if short hops and a greener approach is favoured it might be worth investigating the Kangoo Z.E battery-powered model.
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The 1.5 dCi diesel is the most popular engine in the Kangoo range. You get the choice of three power outputs and we think the 90PS version strikes the best balance between fuel economy and performance. Renault offered the Kangoo with a 105PS 1.6 petrol engine for a brief period of time but demand was low and this means petrol Kangoo vans are rare on the used market.
The all-electric Kangoo Z.E has received numerous updates over the years and this means the maximum range will vary from 75 and 140 miles on a single battery charge, with the newest models providing the best EV range.
The Kangoo range is generally split across two trim levels - Business and Business+. We think it's better to spend extra on the higher Business+ spec, which includes electric folding door mirrors, centre storage box and driver's armrest and overhead storage shelf. You also get a load area rubber floor covering, which is easy to clean and provides some protection for the interior.
Renault Kangoo Renault Kangoo 1.5 dCi diesel: The obvious choice to go for if economy is key, with 70PS, 75PS and 90PS versions being the most efficient engines in the Kangoo range. Expect from 51mpg to 61mpg on average depending on the model.
Renault Kangoo Renault Kangoo 1.6 dCi diesel: Look hard and you may find a 1.6 version out there, which is a four-cylinder offering, non-turbo and has the potential for 36mpg.
Renault Kangoo Renault Kangoo Z.E: The battery electric Kangoo Z.E is worth a look too thanks to it practical range between 75 and 140 miles, which makes it ideal for urban environments.
The Renault Kangoo is available in two trim levels, Start and Advance. While both are reasonably basic, the Start isn't badly equipped with automatic lights and wipers plus air conditioning. The Advance trim level adds in an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen allowing you to connect your smartphone. It also benefits from rear parking sensors, which is always a bonus in a panel van.
The Renault Kangoo’s dimensions are:
Length: 4213mm
Width: 1829mm
Height: 1799mm
Ground clearance: 140mm
The Renault Kangoo’s internal size/capacity is:
3.0 - 3.6 cubic metres standard load space (4.0 - 4.6 Maxi)
1476mm load length (Maxi 1862mm)
650kg to 800kg payload (640kg for Kangoo Z.E)
Vans and pick-up trucks are classed as commercial vehicles and are taxed differently to cars with the VED rate determined by the date the vehicle was registered. In that respect, most Renault Kangoo drivers will pay a flat rate of £275 a year.
Buying a small van is often made more affordable thanks to historically lower insurance costs. The insurance rating for the Kangoo starts at Group 2 for the cheapest and least powerful vans. Insurance then rises to Group 5 for the 100+PS diesel versions in Business+ trim, so if you want it to be cheaper head for the lower level models.