Content area
Full text
On test is the Reanult Kangoo, but not just any run-of-the-mill Kangoo.'No, it's the latest stretched version of the French firm's compact van - the Kangoo Maxi.
Regular readers win know that cm has devoted many pages to the debate of longer, heavier trailers. The argument for such vehicles states that the extra length will allow for more payload. which in turn reduces road miles, emissions and operating Costs.
Renault seems Io agree with the aforementioned idea. just at the opposite end of the CV scale. It's taken its compact Kangoo panel van and stretched it out by 400mm. giving us the Kangoo Maxi.
The Maxi is the third variant in the Kangoo range that also features the small 'Compact' and mid-range 'Van' versions to suit all types of business needs. With an extended wheel-base, the Maxi also takes Renault into higher territory in the LCV market, joining the likes of the LWB Ford Transit Connect. Nissan NV200 and the Fiat Doblo Cargo MAXI, all boasting at least 4ml of loadspace.
The model we're testing here is the £12.590 entry-level Kangoo Van LL21 Maxi powered by an 84hp 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 200Nm of torque. In addition to the engine in our test van. there's also a more powerful 105hp 1.5-litre dCi unit mated to a six-speed gearbox (versus the live-speeder in ours).
Renault offers the Kangoo Maxi in two trim levels, namely LL and LL+. Let's start with the base LL. which was our test vehicle where core features include remote central locking, twin side-sliding doors and overhead parcel shelf. LL+ adds central storage consol and armrest, CarminatTomTom satellite navigation and radio/CD upgrade.
As you can see here, prices begin at £12,590 rising to 113.590 for the range-topping LL21 dCi 105+. which compares favourably with the rival Fiat Doblo Cargo LWB Maxi panel van that costs between £13.845 and £15.945.
The extra wheelbase has also allowed Renault to make a crew-van version of the Kangoo Maxi with a second row of seats. The manufacturer says that it can take five adults in comfort, while still having enough space to transport goods with 1.3m3 of Ioadspace.
Productivity
This is what the Kangoo Maxi is all about: productivity. Willi the oversize dimensions, you get an...