Renault has shortened its recently redesigned Kangoo van by 38cm to create a new model called the Compact.
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The new version loses the sliding side doors of the ‘regular’ Kangoo. Maximum load capacity is between 2.3 and 2.9m³ (depending on version) and overall length 3.83m.
Renault said the Compact is targeted at those whose jobs take them frequently into city centres, where parking and ease of manoeuvrability are critical, as well as those who just require a more compact van to meet their needs, regardless of location.
The shortened wheelbase reduces the turning circle, making it ideal for inner-city driving – the new van needs just 9.4 metres between kerbs to complete a U-turn.
When the Compact’s passenger seat is folded to form a flat floor, the maximum load length increases from 1.34 to 2.12m. A version without passenger seat is also available (depending on country), which can take load lengths of up to 2.54m.
Available features include a mobile navigation device holder, music player connectors and hands-free Bluetooth system for mobile phones.
Engine choices are a 1.5 dCi diesel developing 70hp or 85hp, or a 90hp 1.6-litre petrol unit – all with five-speed manual gearbox.
The Kangoo line is built on a Scénic platform derivative and all models have anti-lock brakes combined with emergency brake assist (EBA) and engine torque overrun regulation.
Depending on version and market, options include cruise control, speed limiter, automatic headlamp activation and rear parking sensors.
The vans are made at the MCA plant in Maubeuge, France.
Since the first model was released in 1997, around 2.2m Kangoos have been made across four continents: MCA Maubeuge (France), Casablanca (Morocco), Córdoba (Argentina) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). The line is Europe’s biggest-selling small van ever, Renault claimed, with sales approaching 1.1m units.
