The Renault Kadjar, a compact SUV produced by the French manufacturer Renault, first appeared in 2015 as a collaborative effort with Nissan, sharing its platform with the Nissan Qashqai. The Kadjar underwent a significant facelift in 2018, bringing updated styling, enhanced technology, and revised engine options. The 1.3 TCe 159 horsepower variant, introduced with this facelift, represented a mid-range offering within the Kadjar lineup, positioned between the lower-powered 1.3 TCe 140 hp engine and the more potent 1.6 dCi diesel models. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2018 through the end of the Kadjar’s lifecycle, primarily targeting the European market where compact SUVs were experiencing significant growth in popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kadjar |
| Generation | Kadjar (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 TCe (159 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 150 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 110.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 119.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5H |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1442 kg (3179.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1889 kg (4164.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 447 kg (985.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 472 l (16.67 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1478 l (52.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Length | 4489 mm (176.73 in.) |
| Width | 1836 mm (72.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2058 mm (81.02 in.) |
| Height | 1613 mm (63.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2646 mm (104.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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 suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kadjar 1.3 TCe 159 is the Renault H5H engine, a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of the Alliance’s (Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi) new generation of modular engines. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine’s design prioritizes reduced internal friction and optimized combustion to improve fuel economy and lower emissions. The 159 horsepower output is achieved at 5500 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) is delivered from 1750 rpm, providing a good balance of responsiveness and pulling power. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this variant. While an automatic transmission was available on other Kadjar trims, it wasn’t offered with the 1.3 TCe 159 engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 TCe 159 hp Kadjar offers a reasonably engaging driving experience for a compact SUV. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.9 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine doesn’t feel overly stressed. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering precise shifts and allowing drivers to maintain optimal engine speed. Compared to the lower-powered 1.3 TCe 140 hp version, the 159 hp model provides a more confident feel when overtaking or climbing hills. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance as the diesel variants, which typically deliver higher torque figures at lower engine speeds. The Kadjar’s suspension setup prioritizes comfort, resulting in a smooth ride quality, but it doesn’t feel particularly sporty in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kadjar 1.3 TCe 159 was typically offered in mid-range trim levels, such as the ‘Signature’ or ‘Edition’ depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Higher trim levels added features like automatic climate control, a larger touchscreen display with navigation, front parking sensors, a rearview camera, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather seats available as an upgrade. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Kadjar utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The Kadjar’s steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and easy feel. The standard tire size is 215/60 R17, offering a good compromise between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Kadjar 1.3 TCe 159 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.3 TCe 140 hp version, the 159 hp model offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently carry passengers or cargo. The Kadjar also faced competition from rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008, and Hyundai Tucson.
Legacy
The Renault Kadjar, including the 1.3 TCe 159 variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The H5H engine, while relatively new at the time of its introduction, has generally demonstrated good long-term reliability. On the used car market, Kadjars with this engine are often sought after for their fuel efficiency and comfortable driving experience. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial to ensure the longevity of the powertrain. The Kadjar’s popularity has contributed to Renault’s success in the competitive compact SUV segment, and it remains a viable option for buyers seeking a practical and affordable family vehicle.
