2016 Renault Koleos: 8 things you didn’t know

The new Koleos is a massively improved SUV offering from French automaker Renualt, but what are some of its lesser-known attributes? We’ve already given you the rundown in our 2016 Renault Koleos Quick Review, but here are a few more morsels of info about the all-new 2016 Renault Koleos.

1. It might look completely different internally and externally, but the 2016 Koleos is based on the Nissan X-Trail’s platform and mechanical package, sharing its 2.5-litre petrol engine, CVT automatic but applying a unique suspension tune.
   
   
2. While some SUV rivals only pack a puny space-saver spare, the Koleos comes equipped with a full size spare as standard. It’s only steel rather than a matching alloy wheel, but its tyre width and outside diameter match the standard hoops, which should provide some peace of mind when venturing away from civilisation.
   
   
3. Release handles for the rear seats are mounted in the boot to make it easier to increase cargo capacity. Pull a handle, and the spring-loaded backrest it’s attached to swings down instantly.
   
   
4. The top-grade Koleos Intens features an 8.7-inch colour touchscreen infotainment display mounted in portrait orientation, rather than the more conventional landscape configuration. With an ultra-responsive screen, it operates much like a tablet with pinch-to-zoom and swipeable menus.
5. Got an armful of groceries? The Intens model features a hands-free power tailgate, which opens when you wave your foot below a sensor mounted under the rear bumper.
   
   
6. If you consider the $29,990 entry price for the base model Koleos Life to be a bit steep when other medium SUVs open at lower prices, remember that the Koleos offers an automatic transmission and satellite navigation as standard across its full range – no manual-equipped base models here.
   
   
7. You can get an all-wheel-drive drivetrain in the mid-spec Zen and high-spec Intens variants, which adds a grip advantage if you regularly drive in poor weather or on slippery surfaces. It normally sends the bulk of power to the front wheels, but when the going gets tough it can be manually locked in a 50-50 front to rear split for maximum traction.
   
   
8. Don’t like the colour of the interior ambient lighting? It’s customisable, with colours ranging from lurid purple to cool blues, sporty reds and neutral whites. The instrument panel graphics can also be swapped between four different designs as well