Renault Kangoo (1999 - 2008) 1.5 dCi Authentique (68bhp) 5d (2006/56) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
It is a gallic shrug to rest of the world. It is anti-fashion. You buy one because you simply don't give a ****, you are driving what is essentially a small French van with seats bolted into it. Which to me, is pretty cool, non?
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Some laugh, some mock, a few understand it. Some people get really miffed when I overtake them. Some even seem to have an active hatred for it. The large numbers of Kangoos converted to disabled use adds to its lack of street-cred. I couldn't care less.
Would you buy this car again and why?
In an instant. It's been all I wanted and more.
What are you likely to buy next?
Haven't even thought about it, I aim to run this car until either it or I die, so I take damn good care of it.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£4,000
When did you buy the car?
June 2010
Did you get a good deal and why?
Car was like new, decent price.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Wanted something different.
What was the dealer like?
Very helpful.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Surprisingly good. Sweet gearbox, for a tall motor it handles quite well, not "fast" but not too slow, either. Cross winds can sway it somewhat, but anyone with half a brain drives according to conditions, anyway. Interestingly, I've found it to be excellent in heavy snow (I fit winter tyres each year), front wheel drive and high ground clearance benefitting this.
What's it like to park?
A doddle. Because of it's flat, van type rear, where the rear glass is...well, that's where the back of the car is, mate. Oh, rear sliding doors are super practical, too.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Other than wear and tear, in over 40,000 miles in under three years, not a single thing has gone wrong with it. Ever.
What's most practical about your car?
The entire thing. It has no carpets to get dirty so is easily kept clean, delivers 50+ to the gallon, has been the most reliable car I have EVER owned. On holidays it swallows luggage, fishing gear, boards and wetsuits. Has been used as a rubbish truck/ removal van/ dog transporter....the list goes on.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
It has no gadgets or options, it is a base model, not even electric windows. This was a deliberate choice, I wanted the simplest vehicle I could get, less to break/ go wrong. It is the Kalashnikov rifle of the car world, not pretty, (well, it is to me) but does all it needs to do admirably.
