Paris Motor Show 2016: Renault Koleos makes European debut

The Renault Koleos has made its European debut at the Paris Motor Show 2016. The SUV shares its platform and engines with the Nissan X-Trail and will cost in the region of £23,000 when it reaches the UK in mid-2017.

Unlike the old Koleos crossover, which was axed in 2010, the new model puts more emphasis on off-roading, with 213mm ground clearance, four-wheel drive and electronic driver aids to help the driver cope with everything from icy roads to muddy fields. A front-wheel drive version will also be offered, although there are no plans for a hybrid option. 

Under the bonnet, the SUV - which stretches almost five metres in length - will be offered with the choice of two petrols and two diesels, with outputs varying from 130PS - 176PS. The diesel line-up will most-likely be the 1.6 dCi from the Nissan X-Trail, offered with a six-speed manual gearbox or X-Tronic CVT.

Like the new Megane, the Koleos gets sleek styling, with sweptback LED headlights and large chrome grille and Renault insignia. Owing to its gargantuan size, the interior will offer acres of head and legroom for up to five adults. The dashboard is modern and minimalist too, dominated by a large colour touchscreen that will vary between 7.0 and 8.7-inches, depending on which trim level you choose. 

Standard equipment for UK models is yet to be finalised, but expect the Koleos to get a huge choice of leather trims, 19-inch alloy wheel designs and paint schemes. Tech levels will also be high, with autonomous city braking, traffic sign recognition with speed control, rear view camera, side parking sensors and automatic parking functions. 

Renault's Motor Show stand also featured a special Initiale Paris edition Koleos, with 19-inch diamond-cut wheels, Amethyste Black paint and full-grain Nappa leather upholstery. However, it is unclear if this model - which also includes laminated side windows for improved acoustic comfort - will reach the UK. 

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