Renault Australia has introduced a new turbocharged petrol engine offering in its range of the popular Kangoo van.
The new 1.2L turbo sees a 30 percent torque increase to 190Nm at 2,000-4000rpm across a and eight per cent more power to 84kWat 4,500rpm and will be offered as either a six-speed manual or six-speed dual clutch auto.
According to senior model line manager for light commercial vehicles, Lyndon Healy, the new petrol is in line with the strong demand for the Kangoo.
“This new powertrain is a significant change for the Kangoo, which has the highest market share of any Renault product sold here in Australia,” Healy said.
“The Kangoo petrol auto has been the best-selling variant to date and we expect a high demand for the new EDC, which has two more gears than the auto it replaces. This variant has been amongst the most affordable vans of its type on the market and this is set to continue with the new version.”
The new engine offers better real-world performance and better fuel economy than many larger naturally aspirated engines and replaces the previous 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol unit.
“The success of Kangoo to date has been no surprise. It’s a good product at the right price, backed with the service and parts support that customers in this segment demand. Its value is further enhanced by its strong residual values,” Healy added.
“Over five years and 100,000km, the fuel savings alone will make it less expensive to own than the vehicle it replaces.
“Traditionally, the petrol-powered versions have accounted for around 60 percent of Kangoo sales and we are confident the new drivetrain and additional specification that arrives concurrently with the new powertrain, will give the Kangoo extra appeal against its rivals in this market.”
The new Kangoo starts at the Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) of $23,490.