The Renault Grand Kangoo III 1.3 TCe (130 hp) represents a modern iteration of Renault’s popular leisure activity vehicle, launched in September 2023. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Grand Kangoo III lineup, this variant balances fuel efficiency with adequate performance for family and commercial use. It builds upon the foundation of the Kangoo platform – known for its practicality and versatility – while incorporating Renault’s latest engine technology. The Grand Kangoo III, and specifically this 1.3 TCe version, primarily targets the European market, where compact MPVs remain a popular choice for families and businesses needing flexible cargo and passenger space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Grand Kangoo III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 TCe (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.6-7.7 l/100 km (35.6 – 30.5 US mpg, 42.8 – 36.7 UK mpg, 15.2 – 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 149-175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 78.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5H E4 |
| Engine displacement | 1333 cm3 (81.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1658-1765 kg (3655.26 – 3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250-2350 kg (4960.4 – 5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585-592 kg (1289.7 – 1305.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3750 l (132.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4911 mm (193.35 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2140 mm (84.25 in.) |
| Height | 1869 mm (73.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3100 mm (122.05 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 961 mm (37.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 164 mm (6.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.51 m (41.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296×26 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 292×16 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grand Kangoo III 1.3 TCe is Renault’s H5H E4 engine, a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of the Alliance’s (Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi) modular engine family. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. The engine also features a turbocharger with an intercooler, which forces more air into the cylinders, boosting power output. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain optimizes airflow for enhanced performance. The 130 horsepower and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque are respectable figures for this class of vehicle. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. Start & Stop technology and a particulate filter are standard, contributing to reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 TCe engine in the Grand Kangoo III provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.5 seconds, and top speed is 180 km/h (112 mph). While not a sporty vehicle, the engine delivers sufficient torque at low RPMs, making it easy to navigate city traffic and maintain highway speeds. Compared to higher-output versions (if offered in the Kangoo range), this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The 6-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, but the gear ratios are tuned for efficiency rather than aggressive acceleration. The engine feels responsive enough for most situations, but drivers seeking more spirited performance might find it lacking.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Kangoo III 1.3 TCe typically comes with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This includes features like air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels add features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The Grand Kangoo III is known for its flexible seating arrangements, with the option of five or seven seats, and the ability to fold or remove seats to maximize cargo space. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Kangoo III utilizes a conventional front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday use. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, and the steering is light and easy to use. The vehicle’s weight (1658-1765 kg) is relatively moderate for its size, contributing to reasonable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Grand Kangoo III 1.3 TCe has been generally well-received in the European market. Critics praise its practicality, versatility, and fuel efficiency. The 1.3 TCe engine is considered a good compromise between performance and economy. Compared to diesel-powered Kangoo variants, the 1.3 TCe offers lower emissions and a quieter driving experience, but may not match the diesel’s fuel economy in certain driving conditions. Against competitors like the Citroën Berlingo and Volkswagen Caddy, the Kangoo III offers a competitive package with a focus on interior space and practicality.
Legacy
The H5H engine family, including the 1.3 TCe variant, has proven to be relatively reliable in Renault and Nissan vehicles. While long-term durability data is still emerging for the latest generation Grand Kangoo III, the engine’s direct injection and turbocharging technologies require regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements. On the used car market, the Grand Kangoo III 1.3 TCe is expected to hold its value reasonably well, thanks to its practicality and fuel efficiency. Its reputation for being a versatile and reliable family vehicle should ensure continued demand in the years to come.
