Renault Kangoo II

Kangoo in brief

The Kangoo has been produced in three generations: I (1997–2007), II (2008–2021) and III (from 2021). Each generation offers a passenger variant with rear windows and seats, and a cargo version — the II generation van was called Kangoo Express, and the III generation van is called Kangoo Van. Both of the newer generations also had electric versions: Kangoo Z.E. and Kangoo E-Tech Electric.

The Kangoo is praised for its boxy, spacious interior, sliding side doors, and straightforward, easy-to-maintain technology. The same technology is used in the Mercedes-Benz Citan and Nissan models (NV250, Townstar), so spare parts are plentiful.

II and III generation — what's the difference

The II generation (2008–2021) is significantly larger and more comfortable than the first. Passenger vehicles have sliding doors on both sides and a liftgate or twin rear doors at the back. There was also a longer seven-seat Grand Kangoo version. The car was refreshed in 2013 — the front end and some interior details were changed.

Third generation (from 2021) is wider, quieter and much more modern: the interior offers more comfort typical of a compact car, there are driver assistance systems and more modern infotainment. The cargo Kangoo Van can have a right-hand side door without a central pillar (Open Sesame), which makes loading long items easier. Later, the longer seven-seater Grand Kangoo returned.

The used market is dominated by second-generation models — they are cheap and straightforward, but often heavily used. The third generation is pricier, but offers comfort and safety closer to that of compact cars.

Engines and transmissions

The second generation's most popular engine is the 1.5 dCi diesel (around 70–110 hp). Petrol options include the 1.6 16V (around 105 hp), and after the facelift, the 1.2 TCe (around 115 hp). Most cars come with a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox; automatic transmissions are rare.

The third generation offers 1.5 Blue dCi diesel (around 75–115 hp) and 1.3 TCe petrol engines; more powerful versions may have an EDC automatic gearbox. Blue dCi engines require AdBlue fluid.

The electric Kangoo Z.E. (second generation) usually has a 22 or 33 kWh battery, so its real-world range is modest. The third-generation E-Tech Electric with roughly a 45 kWh battery travels significantly further.

What to check when buying a used Kangoo

Many Kangoos have been used as workhorses, so inspect the bodywork carefully and check against service records and MOTs. Look at the sliding door runners and hinges, the boot or cargo area floor, the sill and suspension — these often show signs of wear from heavy use.

The 1.5 dCi engine is sensitive to oil maintenance: long intervals between changes can damage the piston rings, so it's crucial that the oil is changed regularly, and the engine runs smoothly without unusual noises. Check the injectors, twin-mass flywheel (if fitted) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve.

When buying an electric Kangoo Z.E., it's essential to find out if the battery belongs to the car or was leased, and check its condition. Inspect the body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and sills, particularly on older models.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common passenger Kangoo trims found in Europe.

Trim comparison

For most buyers, the best choice is a well-maintained second-gen Expression with a 1.5 dCi engine. The third-gen is worth considering if comfort, safety systems, and modern infotainment are important to you.

Frequently asked questions