Fresh-faced Renault Koleos breaks cover

RENAULT has lifted the lid on its updated Koleos mid-size SUV, ushering in upgraded turbo-diesel options, revised exterior styling, upgraded in-cabin technology and a more robust suite of advanced safety systems.

Due to launch overseas in October, the international version of the French SUV will also gain two updated turbo-diesel engines – a 110kW/340Nm 1.8 litre and a 140kW/380Nm 2.0-litre unit – however, as the Australian line-up already features a 2.0-litre oil-burner, it is likely only the latter that will make its way Down Under.

The new 2.0-litre engine would lift power by 10kW over the sole existing diesel-powered Koleos in Australian showrooms, the all-wheel-drive Intens that is priced at $47,490 before on-road costs, while carbon dioxide emissions are pegged at 150 grams per kilometre, down from the existing engine’s 159g/km figure.

Although fuel economy and performance figures have yet to be revealed for the new engine, the current 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine returns 6.1 litres per 100km and can complete the zero-to-100km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds.

Renault, however, is promising “greater refinement and stronger real-world acceleration”, with the updated diesel Koleos sending drive to all four wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission, mirroring its predecessor, but with peak torque now available 250rpm earlier, at 1750rpm.

On the outside, the changes to the new Koleos are subtle but extend to a more pronounced front grille, larger skid plates front and rear, and extra chrome trim all around.

Renault’s Pure Vision LED headlights are now also standard across the range, while the third brake light is bigger than before.

Step inside the new Koleos and occupants will notice a revised satin trim, new soft-touch materials and an updated R-Link 2 infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay across both 7.0- and 8.7-inch touchscreen varieties.

Finally, the new Koleos gains pedestrian detection functionality for its autonomous emergency braking system, while also benefiting from the standardisation of adaptive cruise control.

The current Renault Australia Koleos range kicks off at $30,990 before on-road costs for the two-wheel-drive Life, although pricing and specification for the new model are still unknown.