The Renault Kangoo II 1.6 16V Automatic, produced between 2008 and 2010, represented a practical and accessible entry point into the second generation of Renault’s popular light commercial vehicle and passenger car. Positioned within the Kangoo II range (internally designated as the K9K series), this variant offered a blend of affordability, usability, and the convenience of an automatic transmission. It catered to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for both commercial and family use, particularly in markets where manual transmissions weren’t preferred. The Kangoo II itself was built on the shared Renault-Nissan “B” platform, also underpinning vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Nissan Tiida.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Kangoo II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (106 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 200 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 74.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 103.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3750 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1953 kg (4305.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 438 l (15.47 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1977 l (69.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 737 kg (1624.81 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4213 mm (165.87 in.) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2133 mm (83.98 in.) |
| Height | 1839 mm (72.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2697 mm (106.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1533 mm (60.35 in.) |
| Rear track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Front overhang | 807 mm (31.77 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 709 mm (27.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183-220 mm (7.2 – 8.66 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 274 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Renault Kangoo II 1.6 16V Automatic, launched in 2008, was a key variant within the second-generation Kangoo range. The Kangoo II, introduced in 2007, represented a significant step forward in terms of design, practicality, and refinement compared to its predecessor. This particular version, powered by the 1.6-liter K4M engine and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, aimed to broaden the Kangoo’s appeal to customers who prioritized ease of driving over outright performance. It was primarily sold in Europe, where compact vans and leisure activity vehicles (LAVs) are highly popular. The Kangoo II competed with vehicles like the Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, and Fiat Doblò.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Kangoo variant is the Renault K4M engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a mainstay in Renault’s lineup for many years, is known for its relative simplicity and durability. The K4M features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, hence the “16V” designation. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 106 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The automatic transmission is a conventional four-speed unit, offering smooth but not particularly rapid gear changes. It’s a hydraulic control transmission, lacking the efficiency of more modern electronically controlled automatics or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 16V Automatic Kangoo II delivers a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration is modest, taking around 14.3 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The four-speed automatic transmission contributes to this, with relatively wide gear ratios. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The transmission prioritizes smoothness over responsiveness. The Kangoo’s suspension, tuned for comfort, provides a compliant ride, even on uneven surfaces. Steering is light and easy, making it well-suited for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 16V Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety equipment included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like “Expression” or “Dynamique,” added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and metallic paint.
Chassis & Braking
The Kangoo II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. Braking is provided by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution that provides adequate ride comfort for everyday use. The steering system employs a rack and pinion setup with electric power assistance, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Kangoo II 1.6 16V Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and versatile vehicle. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and its impact on fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic returned slightly lower fuel economy figures (around 8.5 l/100 km combined). The 1.8L 16V manual version offered better performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to drivers who prioritized these aspects. The diesel-powered Kangoo variants (particularly the 1.5 dCi) were even more popular due to their superior fuel economy and torque.
Legacy
The Renault Kangoo II 1.6 16V Automatic, while not the most dynamic or fuel-efficient version of the Kangoo II, remains a reasonably reliable and affordable option in the used car market. The K4M engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while simple, is generally robust. Common issues include occasional sensor failures and wear and tear on suspension components. Today, these Kangoos are often found being used as family vehicles, small business vans, or for leisure activities, demonstrating the model’s enduring practicality and versatility.
