Test drive Renault Kadjar: Japanese with French manners
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Test drive Renault Kadjar: Japanese with French manners

Test drive Renault Kadjar: Japanese with French manners

French model with a slightly different reading of the Nissan Qashqai philosophy

Based on the technology of the well-known Nissan Qashqai, Renault Qajar presents us with a slightly different interpretation of the philosophy of an extremely successful Japanese model. test version of dCi 130 with dual gearbox.

To the question "Why should I prefer Qajar to Qashqai"? can be installed with the same success in reverse - yes, the two models use identical techniques and yes, they are quite close in essence. However, the differences between them are obvious enough to find a suitable place in the sun for each of the two Renault-Nissan products. While the Qashqai, with its typical Japanese passion for high-tech solutions, relies more on an extremely rich range of driver assistance systems and its design is in line with Nissan's current styling line, the Kadjar is more focused on comfort and, above all, comfort. Spectacular design, the work of the team of chief French designer - Lawrence van den Acker.

Characteristic appearance

The drainage lines of the body, the smooth curves of the surfaces and the distinctive expressiveness of the front end not only fit well with Renault's philosophy, but also make the model a truly bright personality in the compact crossover category. Inside the car, the French stylists also went their own way and opted for a digital instrument panel, control of most of the functions via a large touchscreen on the center console, and impressive functionality.

Spacious and functional

Since the Kadjar's body is seven centimeters longer and three centimeters wider than the Qashqai, the Renault model is, as expected, slightly roomier inside. The seats are wide and comfortable for long walks, there is plenty of storage space. The nominal volume of the trunk is 472 liters (430 liters in the Qashqai), and when the rear seats are folded down, it reaches 1478 liters. The Bose version adds to the typical amenities of this segment a high-quality audio system created especially for this model by a renowned manufacturer.

Comfort above all

If the Qashqai's agility was clearly one of the top priorities when setting up the chassis, the Kadjar definitely cares more about ride comfort. Which was actually a very good decision - after all, with such cars with a relatively high center of gravity and significant weight, road behavior is already difficult to approach the definition of "sporty", and the smoothness of the ride is very well combined with the balanced temperament of Qajar. . The suspension is particularly effective at soaking up short, sharp bumps in the road, while the low cabin noise and thoughtful engine operation contribute to a relaxed cabin atmosphere.

Four-cylinder engine with 130 hp and the maximum torque of 320 Nm at 1750 rpm pulls confidently and evenly – just below 1600 rpm its behavior sometimes seems a little more unsteady, but this is not surprising given the car's own weight of 1,6 tons. Fuel consumption in the AMS economy driving cycle is just 5,5 l/100 km, while the average fuel consumption in the test is 7,1 l/100 km. From a pricing point of view, the model adheres to quite reasonable limits and is one idea more affordable than its technological counterpart, the Nissan Qashqai.

EVALUATION

With its attractive design, spacious interior, fuel efficient and thoughtful diesel engine and pleasant ride comfort, the Renault Kadjar is definitely one of the most exciting propositions in its segment. The high curb weight has some effect on the dynamics of the otherwise excellent 1,6-liter diesel engine.

Body

+ Large space in both rows of seats

Plenty of room for items

Satisfactory workmanship

Sufficient baggage

Visible digital controls

"Somewhat limited rear view."

Controlling some functions using the touch screen is not always convenient while driving.

Comfort

+ Nice seats

Low noise level in the cabin

Very good driving comfort

Engine / transmission

+ Уверена и равномерна тяга над 1800 об./мин

The engine works very cultured

– Some weakness at the lowest revs

Travel behavior

+ Safe driving

Good grip

– At times indifferent feeling of the steering system

safety

+ Rich and inexpensive range of driver assistance systems

Efficient and reliable brakes

ecology

+ Powerful standard CO2 emissions

Moderate fuel consumption

– Big weight

Costs

+ Discount price

Rich standard equipment

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Photo: Hans-Dieter Zeifert

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