The review unit was the middle offering, the Koleos Signature, which defers from the entry level variant by adding bigger wheels - 19-inch wheels instead of 18-inch - and electric panoramic sunroof.
The Koleos Signature Plus on the other hand adds an aerokit which consists of front and rear bumper spoilers, side steps and digital video recorder.
The refreshed Koleos comes with a new front and rear bumper design with chrome trim, powered front seats, a two-step reclining rear seats, a hands-free powered tailgate, an updated 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen R-LINK2 multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and new colour options such as Amethyst Black, Millesime Red and Ultra Silver in addition to the existing Universal White and Black Metallic.
The Koleos comes standard with a 2.5-litre petrol engine mated to an X-Tronic CVT automatic seven-speed transmission producing 171PS and 226Nm of torque.
The Koleos also has a comprehensive set of safety equipment which includes six airbags, blind sport warning system, electronic stability programme (ESP) and traction control, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution and hill start assist, front, rear and side parking sensors and rear-view camera.
Other amenities include connectivity and charging options for Bluetooth, hands-free use of a telephone and audio streaming, USB ports, a 3.5mm jack socket, 12V power supply and an SD card slot.
What the Koleos has in abundance of is space.
The cabin has plenty of head and legroom with a wheelbase of 2,705mm.
The glove box has an 11-litre capacity and a seven-liter cubby in the centre console.
The boot offers 542 litres of room which can be increased by folding the rear seats in 60:40 configuration to a staggering 1,690 litres.
The cabin is upholstered in Brown Riviera combination leather for comfort and rear air-conditioning vents and the panoramic sunroof is a nice touch as it is not often found in SUVs of this class.
Behind the wheel, the Koleos offers a smooth and fuss-free drive.
There’s no hint of sluggishness what with its capable 2.5-litre naturally aspirated mill and the continuous variable transmission (CVT) operates smoothly when going through its virtual gears.
It’s also fun to drive and the car is responsive to throttle input while its handling is impressive with minimal body -roll around around turns and bends.
The cabin is also well insulated to keep external noise out and the levels of noise, vibration and harshness is low keeping the car’s occupants happy in the process.
Overall, the Koleos would serve as a family vehicle very well with its spaciousness and comfort.
It also is a good-looking SUV and has a distinct French styling about it which shows off the beauty in its design rather than just function and form.
As such, the Koleos offers style, functionality and safety fit for the nuclear family.
SPECIFICATIONS
Renault Koleos Signature
Engine: 2,488cc, naturally aspirated four-cylinder, petrol
Maximum power: 171PS at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque: 226Nm at 4,400rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed X-Tronic continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Features: Keyless entry, push start ignition, LED headlights with signature daytime running lights (DRL), leather combi seats, ambient lighting, digital and analogue instrument cluster with 7-inch TFT display, hands-free power tailgate, 18-inch alloy wheels, capacitive touch 8.7-inch portrait format R-LINK2 multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, 12V charger, six airbags, blind sport warning system, electronic stability programme (ESP) and traction control, emergency brake assist, electronic brake force distribution and hill start assist, front, rear and side parking sensors, rear-view camera, cornering function in fog lights, ISOFIX
Price: RM182,867 (on-the-road without insurance)
