The Renault Grand Kangoo III 1.5 Blue dCi (95 hp) is a five or seven-seat minivan introduced in September 2023 as part of the third generation of the Kangoo family. Positioned as an entry-level engine option within the Grand Kangoo III range, it caters to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. This variant utilizes Renault’s latest diesel technology and is primarily aimed at the European market, where compact vans and minivans remain popular for both commercial and family use. It represents a continuation of Renault’s long-standing presence in the leisure activity vehicle (LAV) segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Grand Kangoo III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Blue dCi (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.1-5.9 l/100 km (46.1 – 39.9 US mpg, 55.4 – 47.9 UK mpg, 19.6 – 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 133-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.3 kg/Hp, 54.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 876 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1742-1852 kg (3840.45 – 4082.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2340-2440 kg (5158.82 – 5379.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 588-598 kg (1296.32 – 1318.36 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 18.6 l (4.91 US gal | 4.09 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Renault Grand Kangoo III 1.5 Blue dCi (95 hp) is powered by the K9K 876 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Renault’s Blue dCi family, known for its focus on reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and features a diesel commonrail direct fuel injection system. The engine employs a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The K9K engine is known for its robust design and relatively simple mechanical layout, contributing to its reliability. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to meet stringent Euro 6e emission standards. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in this entry-level trim.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 hp output and 260 Nm of torque provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 14.3 seconds, and the top speed is around 101.9 mph. The engine delivers its peak torque at a relatively low 1750 rpm, providing decent responsiveness in urban environments and during overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine can feel strained when fully loaded or when climbing steep hills. Compared to higher-output versions of the Grand Kangoo III, such as those with more powerful diesel engines, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering a good balance between fuel efficiency and drivability. The gear ratios are optimized for low-speed torque and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 Blue dCi (95 hp) trim typically serves as the entry point to the Grand Kangoo III range. Standard equipment generally includes air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and a driver’s airbag. Safety features such as ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are also standard. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, and the dashboard features a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras available for this trim may include rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Grand Kangoo III offers a flexible seating configuration, with options for five or seven seats, and the rear seats can be folded or removed to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Kangoo III utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, and the steering is light and easy to use. The vehicle’s relatively high center of gravity and soft suspension settings contribute to some body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Grand Kangoo III 1.5 Blue dCi (95 hp) has been generally well-received as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. Critics have praised its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and low running costs. However, some reviewers have noted its relatively modest performance and basic interior trim. Compared to other trims in the Grand Kangoo III lineup, this variant offers the most affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy is competitive with other diesel-powered minivans in its class, and its reliability is generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The K9K engine family has a long and established track record of reliability, and the 1.5 Blue dCi variant is expected to be a durable and dependable powertrain. While not known for blistering performance, this engine is valued for its fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. In the used car market, the Grand Kangoo III 1.5 Blue dCi (95 hp) is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and affordable family vehicle with a reputation for reliability. Its relatively simple mechanical design and readily available parts should contribute to its long-term affordability and ease of maintenance.
