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Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers the highest level of versatility, durability and outstanding value for money.
Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor: “For those who require the dual-purpose practicality of a people mover and a load-lugger, combined with a good level of standard specification, the Kangoo Maxi Crew Van is right up there.”
Andy added, “The Kangoo van range is well-established in the UK offering a wide range of solutions for fleets and sole traders alike”.
WHEN WAS IT ON SALE
First available in the UK in 1998, the second generation Renault Kangoo went on sale in 2008 also becoming the donor vehicle for both the Mercedes-Benz Citan and soon to be launched Nissan NV250. Rumours suggest Renault is readying a third generation Kangoo, but it seems unlikely to launch for at least another 12 months.
WHY
Renault offers a comprehensive range of Kangoo vans in the UK. It is available in two body lengths, standard and Maxi, with the latter including a two row Crew Van. Chopped down Compact versions were available at the 2008 launch, but Renault discontinued these derivatives due to limited demand. Adding versatility from the option list is easy by way of a choice between a multi-positioned bulkhead or a swivelling bulkhead or even a load-through hatch in the roof.
Adding to the usefulness of this van for large and small fleets alike, is the availability of different power trains including diesel, petrol and from 2011, as an all-electric Kangoo ZE; the first production electric van.
The mid-life facelift in 2013 added Electronic Stability Control (ESC) featuring Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Grip Xtend across the range. In addition, deadlocks, remote locking, an immobiliser and the Renault Anti Intruder Device (RAID) became standard on the latest versions, along with the introduction of optional Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic gearbox for some models.
Further enhancing the range’s fleet credentials was the introduction of the Business models that added Bluetooth and DAB radio as standard.
WHAT’S GOOD?
- Mix of variants
- Passenger leg room
- Durable and economical manual engines
- Comfortable cabin
- Level of standard specification
- 4-year/100k mile warranty
- Dealer network coverage
WHAT’S BAD?
- Oldest in the sector
- Lack of modern safety features such as city emergency braking
- Payload not up with the best in this sector
- EDC auto not particularly economical
- Bland outdated cabin design
- Odd shaped handbrake mechanism
IDEAL BUY?
Renault Kangoo Maxi LL21dCi 110bhp Business Crew van
Registration Plate: 2015/65
Mileage: 40,000 miles
Glass’s Retail £7,150 Excl VAT
Glass’s Trade £5,900 Excl VAT