Renault Kadjar reviews
Negative reviews
Jon Williams
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
The Kadjar is a reasonable choice of crossover SUV, on the 19" alloys the ride is slightly uncomfortable, but 17" should improve this. The main issue I have is there are many glitches/issues with the RLink2 infotainment and satellite navigation system: - Slow response of RLink2 when changing radio stations - Live traffic periodically disconnects and discards previously downloaded traffic information mid-journey and then routes you back into the traffic affected areas. - No radio text track info displayed - Intermittent DAB signal dropout. - Auto change to corresponding FM station when said DAB signal drops.. it doesn't work. - RDS Traffic Alerts do not work - Flashing message ... no map coverage for current location - Mute on handsfree call doesn't appear to work - pressing the mute button on the control stick results in the message "Mute Not Available" - Out of date satnav maps (June 2015) Renault released a dealer-only update in August 2017 (2.2.18.590) which resolves some of these issues, however, many remain and Renault appears unable/unwilling to resolve them. Because of Renault's customer service has been so poor I would not recommend it (or any other Renault)
Neutral reviews
anonymous
Its appeal, says Renault, is intended to be far broader than that of the Captur. Where that car is primarily meant for tiptoeing around towns and cities only half full, the Kadjar is a proper family crossover, its global aspirations underpinned by the availability of four-wheel drive and a broader choice of engines.
The range is made of two petrols and two diesels. Propping up the Kadjar range is a 128bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged unit followed by a 1.6-litre unit punching out 162bhp, while the star of the diesel range is a new, punchier 1.6 dCi which is the only engine you can pair with four-wheel drive and the venerable 1.5 dCi which allows the Renault to breach the 100g/km CO2 limit.
Just as significant is Renault’s prudent decision to make its Qashqai clone noticeably cheaper to buy than an actual Qashqai – the well-equipped mid-range model here being pitched well under the price of its Nissan equivalent.
anonymous
The Renault Kadjar is a large family car that looks smart, is cheap to run and comes with a fairly big boot. It sits above the Renault Captur but below the Renault Koleos in terms of size in Renault’s SUV range.
The Renault Kadjar’s interior doesn’t look quite as inspiring as the outside, though. Entry-level models do without any form of touchscreen infotainment system and you don’t get smartphone mirroring or a massive portrait style infotainment screen like you can have in the cheaper Renault Megane. Despite this, the cabin feels solidly built, plus the mostly soft and squidgy materials on the dashboard feel pretty posh.
Even entry-level models get a height adjustable driver’s seat that makes it easy to get comfy behind the wheel and there’s an impressive amount of space in the back, too. Two six-foot adults can get reasonably comfy in the rear and three kids will have plenty of room to spread out.
In terms of practicality, the Renault Kadjar’s 472-litre boot is pretty roomy. It’ll easily swallow a baby stroller and a few large soft bags but the VW Tiguan, Kia Sportage and SEAT Ateca can all carry slightly more. The rear seats fold in a handy two-way (60:40) split as standard, so you can carry a passenger in the back and loads of luggage simultaneously.
livc444111
The Kadjar seems to be everywhere in the UK. Nice car but boring choice, would rather have the Koleos
anonymous
Kadjar is the car as an appliance. It's inoffensive, it's good looking and it's utterly forgettable, with enough natty extras – alloys, LED lamps and safety monitors – for the marketing department to disport along the 'price walk'. Chassis dynamics take a back seat to finance here, with the rigours of the 36,000-mile, three-year PCP dominating its showroom and web-site appeal.
anonymous
In 2015 the Kadjar had 25 SUVs to compete with but now there are 40. Renault says the Kadjar has nine key competitors at present: Nissan Qashqai, Opel Mokka, VW Tiguan, Peugeot 3008, Hyundai Tucson, Citroen C5 Aircross, Kia Sportage, Toyota C-HR and Ford Kuga. Is it the best in that company? No, but it slots solidly in the middle ground.
Positive reviews
Daniel
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
We purchased a Top Spec Signature S Kadjar 1.2 Petrol at the end of the 66 registration period, getting a great discount on the list price; so if shopping around for a new registration with a discount is your thing I can advise this. On a personal level I love the look of the Kadjar, different enough to be unique but recognisable enough not to dissuade. My initial trepidation was the 1.2 Turbo enhanced engine not having enough grunt to produce when required, and for sure, you're not going to be winning races off the line any time soon in this car, but that's not what it's for - I have loaded the car with my family of five, full camping gear with roof box and driven through the hills of Cornwall and back again without any problem with power distribution; this leaves to me to state the power is adequate, the delivery of the power is constant and smooth, if not enthralling or exhilarating. As striking as I found the exterior, with the full LED lights and side lighting pack, I found the interior to be a little lacklustre. Clearly laid out, practical and suitable, but nothing to stand out from the crowd. The drivers position is very good, with the electric seat very easy to adjust in order to find the most suitable driving position for each driver, though no memory store is something that could be considered in the future. The passenger seat is manually adjustable, even in the top of the range model, which i found a little bizarre, but nothing too serious. The leg room there is very ample and seats very comfortable.
The same can be said for the rear seats, wide enough for two car seats and a stroppy teenager between them, all with good leg room and buckets of head room. The boot is suitable for a car of it's size, the under panel trays with the ability to compartment is a real bonus, no sliding shopping any more, very clever thinking. As for the gadgets and what you get - pretty darn good for the money. Compared to my friends Audi Q3, priced at slightly more than I paid for the Kadjar, there really is no comparison - to which she totally agrees! Auto lights/ wipers, Auto emergency brake, road sign recognition, lane departure warning, blind spot indicators, auto park, parallel/ reverse/ angled reverse, rear facing camera, bluetooth, phone, voice recognition (which understands me too!), cruise control, speed limiter, panoramic roof, TomTom SatNav the list goes on and on. The dashboard is all digital and can be changed to suite an individuals taste with information from SatNav directions to playlist display. The R-Link2 system doesn't convince me that it is as good as it could be, but it has reliable and suitable, I just feel with some more investment and out of the box thinking this has the scope to be a great system of infotainment. It is linked to the Bose sound system with speakers and boot loaded sub - producing a deep crisp sound which is a joy to listened to. The level of this stereo is not set to blow your ear drums out, so boy racers with aftermarket stereos and subs may be a little disappointed. On the road the Kadjar handles well and, as stated previously, delivers suitable punch with extreme comfort. This is not the piece de Resistance of the on road abilities; that would be the amazingly smooth double clutch Auto box in the car (which Renault finally seemed to have got to grips with), gear changes are near discernible and leave you in no doubt as the driver that right gear will be available exactly when you want it. Overall I have really fallen for this car, despite it being my Wife's pick (I wanted the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV). It is not perfect, I honestly don't think any car is, someone will always want something else, or disagree with a decision made in the design or fit out/ kit out of a vehicle. Notwithstanding; there is nothing that would make me detract a star from what has proven to be a car that delivers on it's promises (fuel economy aside - got to love how these companies manage the test figures they do!) and would wholeheartedly recommend anyone to take one for a test drive to see how it feels.
Mark Simmonds
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
I have the 1.6 diesel engine, which is great in the dry but finds it easy to spin the wheels in 1st and 2nd gear when the turbo cuts in. I have found the Eco mode helpful when pulling out of junctions in this respect. However, one on the move the engine is great for overtaking and rarely sounds like a diesel - even at start-up. Very comfortable to drive, good supportive seats, and lots of toys. On a run I have seen 66mpg - and it was still increasing as arrived at my destination. I have the standard 35w speakers put they put out a great sound and the bass is very good. USB ports make carrying your own music a doddle. It take s a little getting used to seeing the edges of the bonnet up by the windscreen when driving at first because it is so curvy. I have the parking sensors fitted and these help a lot, but having said that this is not a hard car to park. There is a good choice of customisation on the dash (4 choices of actual dash layout and 4 different colours). I love the ability to partition the boot floor so that shopping stays put. I have had a problem with the voice command not activating sometimes, but this appears to have sorted itself out. All my sons are very tall, one at 6ft 6", headroom front and back is not an issue at all. Overall I am really happy with the car, if I were to get another one with the same engine I might well opt for the 4x4 version. The only thing that really needs improving on is the stupid horn - which is more like an electronic tone - embarrassing!
Mark Appleton
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
I've had my Renault Kadjar Signature Nav 1.5Dci for 9 months now and have to admit I'm surprised how good the car is after having a Land Rover Freelander 2. I bought the car as a pre-reg with just 10 miles on the clock (reg May 2016), for £19,999 which I consider a bargain with all the kit you get with the car and I think looks very smart in the black. Yes, I have to change gear more than I did with the Freelander, but when you're getting more than 60 to the gallon, you can't complain. I love it when I fill up and it register 740 miles until I run out. I Really like the amount of space in the boot, it seems to fit in a lot more than the Freelander. One gripe I do have and thats nothing to do with the car are the tyres.
James Carroll
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
OMG! It really kills me to write this, but I must. I am Range Rover, xc90, Merc &BMW man ( A badge snob). I was directed to this Renault by a friend in the trade who really rated them, I laughed in his face. WHAT! was I thinking, I fell in love with car from the first sight in the show room. I've taken it too Holland, Germany and France, plus being used as an around town car. IT'S FANTASTIC! I absolutely love it. Ok it's not as powerful as my CDI 220, but I knew that and as such do not compare. I am looking forward to exchanging and going for the new 4x4 that's coming out. Don't let the badge put you off its a great family car, cheapest large car I've ever run and lovely to drive. I have had 27 spinal operations ( this is not a disability car) the comfort is amazing. My children ( teenagers) never once bleated about being cramped in the back as they were with the CDI220 estate and our continental trip went quite smoothly. Great car.
anonymous
The Renault Kadjar is one of many crossovers trying to lure family buyers, but it’s a tempting proposition thanks to good looks, a spacious interior and generous list of standard kit. Boosting its appeal further is a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines and wide selection of trim levels.
Negative reviews
Jon Williams
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
The Kadjar is a reasonable choice of crossover SUV, on the 19" alloys the ride is slightly uncomfortable, but 17" should improve this. The main issue I have is there are many glitches/issues with the RLink2 infotainment and satellite navigation system: - Slow response of RLink2 when changing radio stations - Live traffic periodically disconnects and discards previously downloaded traffic information mid-journey and then routes you back into the traffic affected areas. - No radio text track info displayed - Intermittent DAB signal dropout. - Auto change to corresponding FM station when said DAB signal drops.. it doesn't work. - RDS Traffic Alerts do not work - Flashing message ... no map coverage for current location - Mute on handsfree call doesn't appear to work - pressing the mute button on the control stick results in the message "Mute Not Available" - Out of date satnav maps (June 2015) Renault released a dealer-only update in August 2017 (2.2.18.590) which resolves some of these issues, however, many remain and Renault appears unable/unwilling to resolve them. Because of Renault's customer service has been so poor I would not recommend it (or any other Renault)
Neutral reviews
anonymous
Its appeal, says Renault, is intended to be far broader than that of the Captur. Where that car is primarily meant for tiptoeing around towns and cities only half full, the Kadjar is a proper family crossover, its global aspirations underpinned by the availability of four-wheel drive and a broader choice of engines.
The range is made of two petrols and two diesels. Propping up the Kadjar range is a 128bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged unit followed by a 1.6-litre unit punching out 162bhp, while the star of the diesel range is a new, punchier 1.6 dCi which is the only engine you can pair with four-wheel drive and the venerable 1.5 dCi which allows the Renault to breach the 100g/km CO2 limit.
Just as significant is Renault’s prudent decision to make its Qashqai clone noticeably cheaper to buy than an actual Qashqai – the well-equipped mid-range model here being pitched well under the price of its Nissan equivalent.
anonymous
The Renault Kadjar is a large family car that looks smart, is cheap to run and comes with a fairly big boot. It sits above the Renault Captur but below the Renault Koleos in terms of size in Renault’s SUV range.
The Renault Kadjar’s interior doesn’t look quite as inspiring as the outside, though. Entry-level models do without any form of touchscreen infotainment system and you don’t get smartphone mirroring or a massive portrait style infotainment screen like you can have in the cheaper Renault Megane. Despite this, the cabin feels solidly built, plus the mostly soft and squidgy materials on the dashboard feel pretty posh.
Even entry-level models get a height adjustable driver’s seat that makes it easy to get comfy behind the wheel and there’s an impressive amount of space in the back, too. Two six-foot adults can get reasonably comfy in the rear and three kids will have plenty of room to spread out.
In terms of practicality, the Renault Kadjar’s 472-litre boot is pretty roomy. It’ll easily swallow a baby stroller and a few large soft bags but the VW Tiguan, Kia Sportage and SEAT Ateca can all carry slightly more. The rear seats fold in a handy two-way (60:40) split as standard, so you can carry a passenger in the back and loads of luggage simultaneously.
livc444111
The Kadjar seems to be everywhere in the UK. Nice car but boring choice, would rather have the Koleos
anonymous
Kadjar is the car as an appliance. It's inoffensive, it's good looking and it's utterly forgettable, with enough natty extras – alloys, LED lamps and safety monitors – for the marketing department to disport along the 'price walk'. Chassis dynamics take a back seat to finance here, with the rigours of the 36,000-mile, three-year PCP dominating its showroom and web-site appeal.
anonymous
In 2015 the Kadjar had 25 SUVs to compete with but now there are 40. Renault says the Kadjar has nine key competitors at present: Nissan Qashqai, Opel Mokka, VW Tiguan, Peugeot 3008, Hyundai Tucson, Citroen C5 Aircross, Kia Sportage, Toyota C-HR and Ford Kuga. Is it the best in that company? No, but it slots solidly in the middle ground.
Positive reviews
Daniel
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
We purchased a Top Spec Signature S Kadjar 1.2 Petrol at the end of the 66 registration period, getting a great discount on the list price; so if shopping around for a new registration with a discount is your thing I can advise this. On a personal level I love the look of the Kadjar, different enough to be unique but recognisable enough not to dissuade. My initial trepidation was the 1.2 Turbo enhanced engine not having enough grunt to produce when required, and for sure, you're not going to be winning races off the line any time soon in this car, but that's not what it's for - I have loaded the car with my family of five, full camping gear with roof box and driven through the hills of Cornwall and back again without any problem with power distribution; this leaves to me to state the power is adequate, the delivery of the power is constant and smooth, if not enthralling or exhilarating. As striking as I found the exterior, with the full LED lights and side lighting pack, I found the interior to be a little lacklustre. Clearly laid out, practical and suitable, but nothing to stand out from the crowd. The drivers position is very good, with the electric seat very easy to adjust in order to find the most suitable driving position for each driver, though no memory store is something that could be considered in the future. The passenger seat is manually adjustable, even in the top of the range model, which i found a little bizarre, but nothing too serious. The leg room there is very ample and seats very comfortable.
The same can be said for the rear seats, wide enough for two car seats and a stroppy teenager between them, all with good leg room and buckets of head room. The boot is suitable for a car of it's size, the under panel trays with the ability to compartment is a real bonus, no sliding shopping any more, very clever thinking. As for the gadgets and what you get - pretty darn good for the money. Compared to my friends Audi Q3, priced at slightly more than I paid for the Kadjar, there really is no comparison - to which she totally agrees! Auto lights/ wipers, Auto emergency brake, road sign recognition, lane departure warning, blind spot indicators, auto park, parallel/ reverse/ angled reverse, rear facing camera, bluetooth, phone, voice recognition (which understands me too!), cruise control, speed limiter, panoramic roof, TomTom SatNav the list goes on and on. The dashboard is all digital and can be changed to suite an individuals taste with information from SatNav directions to playlist display. The R-Link2 system doesn't convince me that it is as good as it could be, but it has reliable and suitable, I just feel with some more investment and out of the box thinking this has the scope to be a great system of infotainment. It is linked to the Bose sound system with speakers and boot loaded sub - producing a deep crisp sound which is a joy to listened to. The level of this stereo is not set to blow your ear drums out, so boy racers with aftermarket stereos and subs may be a little disappointed. On the road the Kadjar handles well and, as stated previously, delivers suitable punch with extreme comfort. This is not the piece de Resistance of the on road abilities; that would be the amazingly smooth double clutch Auto box in the car (which Renault finally seemed to have got to grips with), gear changes are near discernible and leave you in no doubt as the driver that right gear will be available exactly when you want it. Overall I have really fallen for this car, despite it being my Wife's pick (I wanted the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV). It is not perfect, I honestly don't think any car is, someone will always want something else, or disagree with a decision made in the design or fit out/ kit out of a vehicle. Notwithstanding; there is nothing that would make me detract a star from what has proven to be a car that delivers on it's promises (fuel economy aside - got to love how these companies manage the test figures they do!) and would wholeheartedly recommend anyone to take one for a test drive to see how it feels.
Mark Simmonds
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
I have the 1.6 diesel engine, which is great in the dry but finds it easy to spin the wheels in 1st and 2nd gear when the turbo cuts in. I have found the Eco mode helpful when pulling out of junctions in this respect. However, one on the move the engine is great for overtaking and rarely sounds like a diesel - even at start-up. Very comfortable to drive, good supportive seats, and lots of toys. On a run I have seen 66mpg - and it was still increasing as arrived at my destination. I have the standard 35w speakers put they put out a great sound and the bass is very good. USB ports make carrying your own music a doddle. It take s a little getting used to seeing the edges of the bonnet up by the windscreen when driving at first because it is so curvy. I have the parking sensors fitted and these help a lot, but having said that this is not a hard car to park. There is a good choice of customisation on the dash (4 choices of actual dash layout and 4 different colours). I love the ability to partition the boot floor so that shopping stays put. I have had a problem with the voice command not activating sometimes, but this appears to have sorted itself out. All my sons are very tall, one at 6ft 6", headroom front and back is not an issue at all. Overall I am really happy with the car, if I were to get another one with the same engine I might well opt for the 4x4 version. The only thing that really needs improving on is the stupid horn - which is more like an electronic tone - embarrassing!
Mark Appleton
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
I've had my Renault Kadjar Signature Nav 1.5Dci for 9 months now and have to admit I'm surprised how good the car is after having a Land Rover Freelander 2. I bought the car as a pre-reg with just 10 miles on the clock (reg May 2016), for £19,999 which I consider a bargain with all the kit you get with the car and I think looks very smart in the black. Yes, I have to change gear more than I did with the Freelander, but when you're getting more than 60 to the gallon, you can't complain. I love it when I fill up and it register 740 miles until I run out. I Really like the amount of space in the boot, it seems to fit in a lot more than the Freelander. One gripe I do have and thats nothing to do with the car are the tyres.
James Carroll
https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/kadjar/suv/owner-reviews
OMG! It really kills me to write this, but I must. I am Range Rover, xc90, Merc &BMW man ( A badge snob). I was directed to this Renault by a friend in the trade who really rated them, I laughed in his face. WHAT! was I thinking, I fell in love with car from the first sight in the show room. I've taken it too Holland, Germany and France, plus being used as an around town car. IT'S FANTASTIC! I absolutely love it. Ok it's not as powerful as my CDI 220, but I knew that and as such do not compare. I am looking forward to exchanging and going for the new 4x4 that's coming out. Don't let the badge put you off its a great family car, cheapest large car I've ever run and lovely to drive. I have had 27 spinal operations ( this is not a disability car) the comfort is amazing. My children ( teenagers) never once bleated about being cramped in the back as they were with the CDI220 estate and our continental trip went quite smoothly. Great car.
anonymous
The Renault Kadjar is one of many crossovers trying to lure family buyers, but it’s a tempting proposition thanks to good looks, a spacious interior and generous list of standard kit. Boosting its appeal further is a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines and wide selection of trim levels.