Looking to buy an affordable, used SUV with excellent credentials? The now-discontinued Renault Kadjar was very well received by local media, and even went on to become a 2017 SA Car of the Year finalist. The Kadjar is certainly one to consider, offering style, tech, comfort and some very fuel-efficient engines.
What is the Renault Kadjar like to drive?
Is the Renault Kadjar a good car?
It’s a great car, with every feature the modern, yet budget-conscious family could possibly need – preloved Kadjars are affordable, and the diesels are rather efficient! But which is better – petrol or diesel? Find out here.
Who is the Kadjar a good car for?
The Kadjar, a mid-size family SUV, is bigger than the Renault Captur (a compact crossover, of which the new one has just launched) and about as big as the currently-available Renault Koleos (read Lawrence’s review). It’s a five-seater with a roomy interior and a large boot, making it good for anyone who needs a spacious vehicle to go adventuring in.
On launch in 2016, the range comprised three models all powered by turbocharged engines. At the top end of the range was the turbodiesel Dynamique 96kW 1.6 dCi (320Nm) 4×4 followed by the turbopetrol Dynamique 96kW (205Nm) and entry-level Expression variants.
Three months later, the Kadjar Dynamique 4×2 model range was expanded to feature the new Renault-developed EDC transmissions plus the award-winning 1.5 dCi 81kW turbodiesel engine, which we’ve come to know and love in the Duster and the previous-generation Captur.
Is the Renault Kadjar a good first car?
It’s a good first car – albeit a bit on the larger side for inexperienced drivers – so, the Captur may be a better choice since its size makes it more manoeuvrable. But, on the other hand, the Kadjar is so easy to drive and has so many driving assistants that a new driver would get used to its dimensions quickly. I would definitely take out a comprehensive service/maintenance plan when buying a pre-loved Kadjar – it’s really a must with every older car that is out of warranty.
Is the Kadjar a good family car?
It’s ideal for families: Every available Kadjar in the line-up has a five-star EuroNCAP rating, along with ABS with EBA (Emergency Brake Assist), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Anti-spin regulation) and HSA (Hill Start Assist). Six airbags (including curtain airbags) are standard. As you can see from the image below, the boot is of a practical size, too.
Is there a hybrid Kadjar?
No, only petrol and diesel models, but the diesels are truly superstars in the efficiency department – the 1.6-litre diesel yielded 5.5 litres per 100 km in realistic conditions, which is impressive.
What’s it like to drive?
Reviewer’s opinion
Chad reviewed two variants of the Kadjar with different powertrains. Watch our 2016 Renault Kadjar 96kW dCi (diesel) Dynamique video review.
Prefer petrol? Watch the video review of the 2017 96kW TCe Dynamique EDC here.
What does it look like?
What is the Renault Kadjar like inside?
Interior styling is very functional and upmarket, and the quiet, cosseting cabin makes you feel comfortably isolated from the outside world. The digital instrument cluster looks trés stylish. – Ané Albertse, AutoTrader
Tech and convenience features
The entry-level Expression-model is fitted as standard with a 7-inch colour touchscreen, MP3 CD Player, remote central locking, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure sensors, an electronic parking brake, cruise control, a gear-shift indicator, handsfree Bluetooth, Eco Mode, USB plug & AUX input, Isofix anchorage points, and a full size spare wheel.
Dynamique-models add roof rails, LED headlights, cornering fog lights, skid plates, electric foldable mirrors, the 7-inch touch screen infotainment system, satnav, light & rain sensors, Dual Zone auto climate control, a leather steering wheel and gear lever, Renault Card Key, Park Distance Control (front and rear), tinted windows in the back, a panoramic sunroof, electric & heated leather seats and Park Assist with rear camera and side Park Distance Control.
Pricing
Used models on AutoTrader are listed from as little as R158 900 for a 2017 96kW petrol model with 98 000 km on the clock. That is an absolute steal! Search used Kadjar models on AutoTrader, filtered from low to high.
Competitors
Similar Cars to the Renault Kadjar
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Sportage
Keyword: Everything you need to know about the Renault Kadjar