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NEWS
March 5, 2015
Renault Kangoo (Part 1): The Practical Vehicle from a Nation of Hobbies
RENAULT KANGOO (Part 1)
The Practical Vehicle from France, a Nation of Hobbies
The Kangoo, Renault's best-selling model in Japan, a multi-purpose vehicle, has undergone a full model change and has been released by Renault Japon. What is the true value of the new, slightly larger model?
Text by Fumio OgawaPhotos by Renault Japon
The Body is 18cm Longer
The new Kangoo is characterized by its larger size, which provides more interior space. While its unique design is something Japanese manufacturers might struggle to create, it could prove surprisingly useful for users with a European lifestyle.
What is the appeal of French cars? Perhaps it's their suitability for everyday use. As those who have traveled in France by rental car will know, you'll see people everywhere using them for family trips or for loading up their hobby equipment. In wine-producing regions, it's common to see them loaded with newly purchased wine. Such lifestyles are no longer uncommon in Japan, with the rise of wineries in Nagano and Yamanashi, and the increased availability of local produce in rural areas. Of course, many people also enjoy hobbies that require equipment, such as fishing, diving, and camping. With this in mind, it might be worth paying attention to the practical vehicles from France, a nation of hobbies.
The Renault Kangoo is a top-selling model in France, earning high marks for its functionality with versatile seat arrangements, a surprisingly comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The new Kangoo features a wheelbase extended by 10cm compared to the previous model, a body that is 18cm longer, 15cm wider, and 2cm taller, and meticulous improvements throughout, including a rear window that can be fully lowered by rolling it up.
Impressive Interior Versatility
The new Kangoo is based on the Scenic, another popular minivan in Europe. The reason for using the slightly larger Scenic's platform is to enlarge the cargo space to meet European luggage standards. In the passenger car version, this benefit is evident in the increased body rigidity, improved handling stability, and reduced interior noise. Furthermore, thicker side glass and the strategic use of sound-deadening materials have resulted in a remarkable 50% reduction in interior noise compared to the previous generation.
What's impressive is the interior's versatility. While there are two rows of seats, all seats except the driver's can be folded to create a completely flat floor, allowing for the transport of items up to 2.5 meters long. Alternatively, seats can be folded as needed to efficiently carry a large number of passengers and cargo. The cargo area is also designed for practicality, with a two-stage adjustable parcel shelf that can accommodate a substantial amount of luggage. Those with hobbies that take them to the sea or mountains will likely be amazed by the Kangoo's functionality once they try it.
Renault Call
0120-676-365 (Reception hours 9:00-18:00, open year-round)
http://www.renault.jp

