Latest Renault Kadjar hits Irish roads

Since it first launched in late 2015, the Renault Kadjar compact SUV has sold over 5,700 models here, writes Trish Whelan.

Now, the new facelift model has arrived on Irish roads priced from €26,995.

The exterior has been given a more sleek look with the body coloured area of the front and rear bumpers now larger lending a more premium feel. The grille is wider and the C-Shaped LED lights now incorporate the front indicator. Customers can choose from 17- and 19-inch wheels and from three new colours: Oural Green, Iron Blue, and Highland Grey.

The interior has also been redesigned with the dashboard getting a more elegant, unbroken line. Seats come with dual density foam providing improved support for driver and passengers and also now feature a cushion extender. A new 7-inch multimedia touch screen gives a brighter display and greater sensitivity. 

There’s a new control panel for the automatic air conditioning; other additions include bigger cup holders, bigger front door bins and two rear USB sockets.

Efficient new petrol and diesel engines are fitted across the range. They include a new 1.3TCe 140 GPF petrol engine available with 6-speed manual or 7-speed EDC automatic gearbox options. The manual-only TC3 160 offers the highest power output ever for a Kadjar and should appeal to customers looking to change from diesel back to petrol. Engines also feature an upgraded 1.5 Blue dCi 115, more powerful than before but still the most economical engine in the line-up. The new 1.7 Blue dCi engine is now available with 150hp and comes in 4x2 and 4x4. 

Trims are Play, Iconic, S-Edition and GT-Line.

The entry level trim features 17-inch alloy wheels, dual climate control, parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, 7-inch touchscreen and Android and Apple Car Play (€26,995-€31,295). 

The Iconic gets cruise control and speed limiter, parking camera, keyless entry/start, navigation and privacy glass while the new sporty S-Edition adds a half leather interior, panoramic roof, LED/Xenon lights. From €31,395 for the petrol version (€29,695-33,995). 

The top GT-Line adds a touch of luxury with leather seats, full LED lights, hands-free parking and 360 sensors; blind spot warning. (€33,995-€39,995).