Renault Kadjar has eyes on the prize

ROAD TEST

Big brother has his eyes on the prize and is ready to snatch sales from a whole host of rivals.

The sibling in question is the new Renault Kadjar, which hit UK streets during the autumn, and is a larger version of the French brand’s compact crossover the Captur.

It enters an area of the market that has expanded out of all recognition in recent years and already features popular models from most of the leading manufacturers.

Interestingly, Kadkjar shares the same platform as the SUV scene’s most lauded model, the Nissan Qashqai – and has the qualities to stand shoulder to shoulder with it too.

Choice is varied with an 18-version line-up of 4×2 and four-wheel drive models based on four familiar trim lines – Expression+, Dynamique Nav, Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav.

All provide a solid standard spec and, bar entry grade, hook up to the stratosphere via Renault’s R-Link 2 multimedia system.

First impressions are always important and the Kadjar looks the business from the moment you clamp eyes on it – a mixture of swoopy elegance and low-slung style.

Hop inside and the cabin is modern, upmarket and gives the impression that its upholstery and fittings will withstand years of heavy duty family onslaught without becoming frayed at the edges.

On that note standard safety features include ABS, traction and understeer control, cruise control, speed limiter, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, side impact protection bars and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points on the two outer rear seats.

Head and elbow room in the rear is as good as you will find in any vehicle of this size and you also get 30 litres of stowage space in the cabin.

And two different boot configurations mean owners can choose between a high position with a flat floor for loading large items, or a reservoir-like low position for carrying to the max.

Of the three engines up for grabs – a 1.2-litre turbocharged TCe 130bhp petrol unit, a 1.5-litre ENERGY dCi 110bhp diesel and the brand’s 1.6-litre ENERGY dCi 130bhp diesel – the lower powered diesel is the most frugal.

The tested dCi 130 with six-speed manual transmission, though, still boasts a Combined 62.8mpg and though we didn’t quite match that figure, thoughtful driving can get you pretty close.

The Kadjar is no better than moderate away from the lights, otherwise this is a top notch car to drive with excellent composure, a well balanced ride quality and plenty of feedback from the steering.

Most versions are front-wheel drive but if you’re looking for 4WD it’s available in the upper trim levels for an extra £1,500.

There are also several option packs, the best value being Parking Pack Premium with hands-free parking, a rearview camera and blind spot warning for £500.

Of course things never stand still in the new car market and a new generation Kia Sportage, due this spring, will no doubt set a fresh challenge. For now though, the Kadjar’s on top of the pile.

Prices are from £17,995 for the Kadjar Expression + TCe 130 model rising to £26,295 for the Kadjar Signature Nav dCi 130 4WD variant.