Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Kangoo I (KC) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 D (65 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 181 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 145 km/h (90.1 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.2 kg/Hp, 54.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm, 101.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 65 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 34.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 2250 rpm (88.51 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F8Q |
| Engine displacement | 1870 cm3 (114.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 650 l (22.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2600 l (91.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 950 kg (2094.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 3995 mm (157.28 in.) |
| Width | 1663 mm (65.47 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2015 mm (79.33 in.) |
| Height | 1827 mm (71.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Front overhang | 692 mm (27.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 703 mm (27.68 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.95 m (35.93 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14 T |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
The Renault Kangoo I, specifically the 1.9 D variant producing 65 horsepower, was a popular choice in the European light commercial vehicle and multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment from 2001 to 2002. Falling within the first generation (KC) of the Kangoo, this model served as an economical and practical option for businesses and families alike. It was positioned as the entry-level diesel offering, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. The Kangoo I, launched in 1997, represented Renault’s attempt to create a versatile vehicle that blended the functionality of a van with the comfort of a passenger car, and the 1.9 D trim played a key role in achieving broad market appeal.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kangoo 1.9 D was the F8Q engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay in Renault’s lineup for many years, known for its robustness and simplicity. The F8Q utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common diesel technology of the time. This system involved injecting fuel into a precombustion chamber connected to the main cylinder, promoting more complete combustion. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 65 horsepower output was achieved at 4500 rpm, while peak torque of 120 Nm (88.51 lb-ft) arrived at 2250 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. An automatic transmission was not available for this specific engine/trim combination.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9 D with 65 hp wasn’t designed for speed. Acceleration was leisurely, taking around 19.5 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The focus was on providing adequate power for everyday driving and hauling loads. The engine’s torque delivery was relatively flat, making it suitable for carrying passengers or cargo. The gear ratios in the 5-speed manual transmission were geared towards maximizing fuel economy rather than providing sporty acceleration. Compared to higher-output versions of the Kangoo, such as those with gasoline engines, the 1.9 D felt significantly slower. However, it offered superior fuel economy and a more durable powertrain. The driving experience was characterized by its utilitarian nature, prioritizing practicality over excitement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 D trim of the Kangoo I was generally considered the base diesel model. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, and basic interior trim. The interior upholstery was usually a durable cloth material. Optional extras included air conditioning, power windows, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. The Kangoo’s modular interior was a key selling point, with the rear seats often folding or even being removable to maximize cargo space. The overall interior ambiance was basic but practical, reflecting the vehicle’s workhorse nature.
Chassis & Braking
The Kangoo I utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consisted of MacPherson strut springs, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm setup. This configuration provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing relatively light and precise steering feel. The tires were typically 165/70 R14, chosen for their balance of fuel efficiency and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Kangoo 1.9 D was well-received in the European market as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle and MPV. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, durability, and versatile interior. However, the engine’s limited power output was often noted as a drawback. Compared to the gasoline-powered Kangoo variants, the 1.9 D offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of performance. It was also often compared to other small vans and MPVs in its class, such as the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner, often holding its own in terms of value and practicality.
Legacy
The F8Q engine, found in the Kangoo 1.9 D, is known for its longevity and relative simplicity, making it a favorite among mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. While not a high-performance engine, it proved to be remarkably durable and capable of racking up high mileage with proper maintenance. In the used car market today, Kangoo I 1.9 D models are often sought after by those looking for a reliable and affordable work vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, and the engine’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to repair. The Kangoo I, and particularly the 1.9 D variant, established the Kangoo as a popular and practical choice in the light commercial vehicle segment, paving the way for subsequent generations of the model.
