Review: Renault X61.I Kangoo (2010-13)

Overview

Released in October 2010, the Renault X61 Phase I (X61.I) Kangoo was a compact, two-seat van. Manufactured in Maubeuge, France, the front-wheel drive X61 Kangoo was available with either a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel (dCi) unit. In March 2013, however, the range was revised as the short wheelbase (SWB) 1.5 dCi variant was effectively replaced by a long wheelbase (or ‘Maxi’) model.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the Renault X76 Kangoo which preceded it, the X61 Kangoo SWB was 178 mm longer (at 4213 mm), 157 mm wider (1829 mm), 30 mm lower (1805 mm) and had a 92 mm longer wheelbase (2697 mm). The long wheelbase base, or Maxi, models had a 384 mm longer wheelbase and overall length at 3081 mm and 4597 mm, respectively.

The X61 Kangoo SWB had a left-hand sliding door fitted as standard, while a right-hand sliding door was optional for SWB models but standard for LWB models; 180-degree opening rear doors, however, were standard across the range.

Suspension

The X61 Kangoo had MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Renault X61.I Kangoo included a driver’s airbag, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; electronic stability control, a passenger airbag and front side airbags were optional.

In January 2013, standard features were extended to include a front passenger airbag, electronic stability control and traction control.

Brakes

The Renault X61 Kangoo had 280 mm by 26 mm front disc brakes and 274 mm by 11 mm rear disc brakes.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , a 2008 Renault X61 Kangoo with a 1.5-litre dCi engine – and equipped with dual front airbags – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 27.73. In the frontal offset impact test, the steering column presented a risk of injury to the driver’s femurs and chest protection for front occupants was marginal. In the side impact test, there was a moderate risk of serious chest injury for the driver.

Features

Standard features for the Renault Kangoo included a two speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility and iPod jack, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, steering wheel audio controls, remote central locking, power windows, power mirrors with heating and folding functions, a height adjustable steering wheel, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

Brochures

• Brochure: Renault X61.I Kangoo (June 2009)
• Brochure: Renault X61.I Kangoo (February 2011)

Review: Renault X61.II Kangoo (2013-21)

Overview

Released in Australia in late 2013, the Renault X61 Phase 2 (X61.II) Kangoo range was expanded to include five-seat 1.5 dCi Crew vans (see table below). Visually, the X61.II Kangoo could be identified by its larger grille, sleeker headlights, slimmer door mirrors and vertical tail-lights. Inside, there was a new center console, steering wheel and gloss-black instrument panel.

As part of the update, the 1.5 dCi variants had an ‘ECO Mode’ which could improved fuel economy by 10 per cent in city driving by reducing engine torque and altering the accelerator pedal mapping for less throttle response, while a gearshift indicator prompted the driver to change up or down.

Other changes for the X61.II Kangoo included enhanced soundproofing, reduced wind noise (through the fitment of an ‘acoustic’ windscreen and redesigned door mirror housings) and new engine mounts. Gearshift quality for the four-speed automatic transmission was also improved.

July 2016 and 2017 updates

In July 2016, the Renault X61.II Kangoo range was revised as the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine was replaced by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine which also had a ‘Stop/Start’ system that enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic. The Kangoo 1.2T was available with six-speed manual or ‘Efficient Dual Clutch’ transmissions.

From late 2017, the Kangoo 1.5 dCi was available with a six-speed dual dry clutch transmission (Renault’s ‘EDC’).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Renault X61.II Kangoo included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. The 1.5 dCi Maxi variants were also fitted with Hill Start Assist with Extended Grip Mode.

From January 2016 production, standard safety equipment for the Kangoo 1.5 dCi Maxi L2 and 1.5 dCi Crew L2 was extended to include front seat-mounted airbags which provided chest and head protection.

From June 2016 production, all Renault X61.II Kangoo vehicles were fitted with front seat-mounted side airbags as standard.

Brakes

All Renault X61.II Kangoo models had 280 mm by 26 mm front disc brakes and 274 mm by 11 mm rear discs brakes.

Features

Standard features for the Renault Kangoo 1.6i SWB included 15-inch steel wheels with 195/65 R15 91T tyres, a two speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compaibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB), Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, cloth seat upholstery, air conditioning, remote central locking, power front windows, a height adjustable steering column, height adjustable driver’s seat, 12 volt power outlet, trip computer, full-size spare wheel and an immobiliser.

The 1.5 dCi Kangoo Maxi was further equipped with cruise control and a speed limiter.

The 1.5 dCi Kangoo Crew was distinguished by its 15-inch ‘Aria’ alloy wheels with 195/65 R15 95T tyres, climate control air conditioning, front and rear fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, 60:40 split and flat folding rear seats and power mirrors.

For the Renault Kangoo 1.2T, rear parking sensors were fitted as standard.

January and October 2016 updates

From January 2016 production,

• The Kangoo 1.5 dCi Maxi L2 and 1.5 dCi Crew L2 were fitted with rear parking sensors; and,
• The Kangoo 1.6i L1 had a tailgate as standard, though rear barn doors were available as an option.

From October 2016, rear parking sensors were fitted as standard for all Renault X61.II Kangoo vehicles.

Renault Kangoo Maxi Crew: Lifestyle Pack

From October 2016, the Renault Kangoo Maxi Crew could be specified with a ‘Lifestyle Pack’ which had a retail price of $1290. The Lifestyle Pack included Renault’s ‘R-Link’ audio and navigation system with a seven-inch touchscreen, digital radio tuner, leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear ventilation outlets for second row passengers. Visual cues for the Lifestyle Pack included a unique body-coloured front bumper, painted rear bumper, gloss black door mirrors and rear privacy glass.

Furthermore, rear side windows were available as a dealer fit option at a cost of $290 plus dealer fitting.

Brochure

• Brochure: Renault X61.II Kangoo (January 2014)

Related links

• Specifications: Renault X61.II Kangoo (May 2014)
• Specifications: Renault X61.II Kangoo (February 2017)
• Press kit: Renault X61.II Kangoo (May 2014)
• Renault Australia: Renault Kangoo
• Wikipedia.org: Renault X61 Kangoo

Review: Renault X76.I Kangoo (2004-07)

Overview

Released in August 2004, the Renault X76 Phase I (X76.I) Kangoo was a compact, two-seat van. Manufactured in Maubeuge, France, the front-wheel drive X76.I Kangoo was powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

Safety equipment

Safety equipment for the X76.I Kangoo included a driver’s airbag and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. Automatic models were also fitted with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution as standard – these features were optional on manual models.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2003 Kangoo with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine – and equipped with dual front airbags, unlike Australian-delivered models – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 26. In the frontal impact, the cabin became unstable and the driver risked chest injuries; the front occupants were also at risk of knee injury due to hard points behind the fascia. In the side impact test, protection was also affected by the extent to which the driver’s door pillar was pushed in.

Features

Standard features for the Renault Kangoo included a two speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, remote central locking, split and folding passenger seat, power mirrors and windows, heat reflective windscreen, tinted windows, left-hand side sliding door, 180-degree opening rear barn door and immobiliser. A sliding right hand side door was optional.

Review: Renault X76.II Kangoo (2007-10)

Overview

Released in May 2007, the Renault X76 Phase II (X76.II) Kangoo featured more powerful engines and improved equipment levels. In February 2008, the line-up was expanded with the introduction of a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

Safety equipment

Safety equipment was improved with a front passenger airbag, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist fitted as standard across the range.

Features

Compared to its predecessor, the X76.II Kangoo was also fitted with a speed control feature, dual sliding side doors and roof rails.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Renault X76 Kangoo

Recalls: Renault X76 Kangoo

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Renault X76 Kangoo

No recall information is available for the Renault X76 Kangoo. To search for recalls of Renault models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Renault.

Problems and faults: Renault X76 Kangoo

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Renault X76 Kangoo

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Renault X76 Kangoo.

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Renault X61 Kangoo

• In September 2014, a recall was issued for Renault Kangoo vehicles due to ABS pipes that may have been fitted incorrectly – this could result in reduced braking capacity and ability under heavy braking. The recalled vehicles had VINs in the range VF1FW0DB5D0677935 to VF1FW1UB5D0677766 (PRA 2014/14348).
• In February 2015, a recall was issued for Renault Kangoo vehicles that had VINs in the range VF1FW0ZHCD0698809 to VF1FW52B6D0688055 (though not all such vehicles were affected). In these vehicles, the wiring in the driver’s airbag may have moved due to significant vehicle vibration – such movement may have caused the wiring to be damaged by contact with a steel part of the horn control. As a result, the airbag may deploy inadvertently, posing a hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2015/14538).
• In May 2016, a recall was issued for Renault X61 Kangoo vehicles that were transformed/converted by GRUAU for wheelchair access because the rear bench seat backrest mounting bolts were at risk of breaking. As such, there was a risk of noise or detachment of the rear bench seat backrest which could result in partial or full loss of the protection performance of the backrest. In the event that the vehicle came to a sudden halt, there was a risk of injury to the passenger (PRA 2016/15388).

Problems and faults: Renault X61 Kangoo

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Renault X61 Kangoo

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Renault X61 Kangoo.

Released in August 2004, the Renault X76 Phase I (X76.I) Kangoo was a compact, two-seat van. Manufactured in Maubeuge, France, the front-wheel drive X76.I Kangoo was powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission… Read full Renault X76 Kangoo review

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Images: Renault X76.II Kangoo (2007-10)

Released in May 2007, the Renault X76 Phase II (X76.II) Kangoo featured more powerful engines and improved equipment levels. As part of the update, a front passenger airbag, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist were fitted as stadnard. In February 2008, the X76.II Kangoo line-up was expanded with the introduction of a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

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Released in October 2010, the Renault X61 Phase I (X61.I) Kangoo was a compact, two-seat van. Manufactured in Maubeuge, France, the front-wheel drive X61 Kangoo was available with either a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel (dCi) unit. In March 2013, however, the range was revised as the short wheelbase (SWB) 1.5 dCi variant was effectively replaced by a long wheelbase (or ‘Maxi’) model… Read full Renault X61 Kangoo review

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Images: Renault X61.II Kangoo (2013-21)

Released in Australia in late 2013, the Renault X61 Phase 2 (X61.II) Kangoo range was expanded to include five-seat 1.5 dCi Crew vans. The Renault X61.II Kangoo could be identified by its larger grille, sleeker headlights, slimmer door mirrors and vertical tail-lights. Inside, there was a new center console, steering wheel and gloss-black instrument panel. As part of the update, the Kangoo 1.5 dCi variants had an ‘ECO Mode’ which could improved fuel economy by 10 per cent in city driving by reducing engine torque and altering the accelerator pedal mapping for less throttle response, while a gearshift indicator prompted the driver to change up or down.

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Euro NCAP: 2008 Renault X61 Kangoo crash testing

In Euro NCAP testing, a 2008 Renault X61 Kangoo with a 1.5-litre dCi engine – and equipped with dual front airbags – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 27.73. For more information about this testing, please go to the Euro NCAP website. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

Drive.com.au: 2011 Renault X61.I Kangoo – Quick Spin

Euro NCAP: 2003 Renault X76 Kangoo crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing, a 2003 Kangoo with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine – and equipped with dual front airbags, unlike Australian-delivered models – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 26. For more about this test, please see the Euro NCAP website. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.