Renault Kadjar review (2015-2022)
The Renault Kadjar is a mid-size SUV that could cost you less to buy and run than many rival cars. It's a good choice for families, with lots of room for people and luggage.
Pros
- Very efficient petrol and diesel engines
- Comparatively cheap to buy and run
- Lots of interior and boot space
Cons
- Infotainment system is slow to respond
- Feels a bit basic inside
- Not as good to drive as some rival cars
Summary
“Great value and a practical choice for families.”
The Renault Kadjar is a great-value mid-size SUV that's practical and very competitively priced.
There’s a great choice of petrol and diesel engines, all of which provide a good drive and excellent economy. An update in 2018 gave the Kadjar a slightly more upmarket appearance and more equipment than pre-2018 versions. That said, earlier models still come with cruise control and air con, as well as many other useful features.
What's the interior like?
“Looks a bit functional, but simple and spacious inside.”
The interior of the Renault Kadjar is a good combination of design and functionality. Some of the materials in the pre-2018 models look a bit functional, but this may be a plus if you have young children as it can be easier to clean.
The simple dashboard layout ensures everything is within easy reach, while the centre console isn’t fussy and has just the right number of buttons. On models from the Dynamique up, you get Renault’s R-Link infotainment system. It provides access to additional apps such as eco-driving tools that help you drive more efficiently by scoring you on things like acceleration. The latest models have support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and some models also have a reverse camera to help with city parking.
There’s loads of space for those in front and back, so carrying passengers around will be easy. The seats are also extremely comfortable. Boot space is good at 472 litres, which is more than you get in a Nissan Qashqai of the same era.
What's it like to drive?
“Smooth and solid on the road and a fine cruiser.”
The Renault Kadjar generally gives you and your passengers a smooth ride and it cruises effortlessly on the motorway. It's not as much fun to drive as a Ford Kuga or Seat Ateca, however, or quite as smooth and quiet as a Skoda Karoq.
Manual gearboxes are a good option because Renault’s 'EDC' automatic gearbox can be slow when changing gears. The 1.5 dCi diesel provides economy and performance, but if you plan to regularly drive the Kadjar with a car full of people or luggage, a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.7-litre diesel are also available. The petrol engines give a good blend of power and fuel economy.
Some models have four-wheel drive but most used Renault Kadjar cars for sale are front-wheel drive.
Is it cost-efficient to buy and run?
“It's well priced with very efficient engines and competitive running costs.”
All the Kadjar engines are very fuel-efficient with the 1.5 dCi being the best, delivering up to 74 mpg according to official figure. None of the models should see you visiting the pumps too often though.
The 1.3 TCe is in insurance groups below 20 which means lower quotes, while servicing costs are similar to rivals and road tax is low.
It’s likely you’ll pay slightly less for a Kadjar than for an equivalent Nissan Qashqai, but you’ll get just as much kit, if not more. You’ll also pay significantly less than for a Volkswagen Tiguan or Toyota RAV4.
An easier way to find or sell a car
You’ll find lots of used cars for sale at Cazoo, all available to buy through our trusted dealers.
Cazoo makes selling a car just as easy – just enter a few details for an instant online valuation. If you accept the offer our partners will get in touch to arrange payment and collection of your car at a time that suits you.
Which one is best for you?
Prior to the update in 2018, we think Dynamique is the pick of the trims available due to its combination of features and price.
Post-2018, the trim names all changed and it’s worth going for the Iconic or above. There’s also the option of the more sporty feeling GT-Line.
