The Renault Kangoo III 1.3 TCe (100 hp) is a front-wheel-drive, five-door minivan that formed part of the third generation of the Kangoo, produced from 2021 onwards. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the Kangoo III range, it aimed to balance affordability with practicality, targeting families and commercial users seeking a versatile vehicle. This variant utilized Renault’s 1.3 TCe turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, representing a key configuration in many European markets. It served as a bridge between the base-level engines and the more powerful options, offering a compromise between fuel economy and performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Kangoo III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 TCe (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.7-6.8 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.6 US mpg, 42.2 – 41.5 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 151-154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6D Full |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp, 71.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 142.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5H |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1400-1541 kg (3086.47 – 3397.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2071 kg (4565.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530-671 kg (1168.45 – 1479.3 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 775 l (27.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3500 l (123.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4486 mm (176.61 in.) |
| Width | 1919 mm (75.55 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2159 mm (85 in.) |
| Height | 1838 mm (72.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2716 mm (106.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 810 mm (31.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 164 mm (6.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.75 m (38.55 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 | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280×24 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228.6 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kangoo III 1.3 TCe is Renault’s H5H engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of the Alliance’s (Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi) modular engine family. It features direct fuel injection and is turbocharged, allowing for a good balance of power and efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to increase air density entering the engine, boosting performance. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing valve timing for improved combustion. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes and contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. This transmission was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and driver engagement, appealing to a broader range of buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The 100 hp 1.3 TCe engine in the Kangoo III delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 13.8 seconds, and top speed is approximately 104 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient torque (200 Nm or 147.51 lb-ft) at relatively low RPMs (1500 rpm), making it suitable for carrying loads and navigating urban environments. The six-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to higher-output versions of the Kangoo III, this variant feels less strained during acceleration and offers better fuel economy. However, it may struggle when fully loaded or on steep inclines. The gear ratios are tuned for practicality rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 TCe (100 hp) trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and driver/passenger airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Kangoo III 1.3 TCe utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for both urban and highway driving. The front brakes are ventilated discs (280×24 mm), while the rear brakes are drums (228.6 mm). This configuration is typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s weight (1400-1541 kg) is relatively moderate, contributing to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Kangoo III 1.3 TCe (100 hp) was generally well-received as a practical and affordable minivan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency (6.7-6.8 l/100 km) and versatility. Compared to diesel-powered Kangoo models, the 1.3 TCe offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, although it lacked the diesel’s low-end torque. Compared to higher-powered gasoline variants, it provided a more economical option, albeit with slightly reduced performance. The manual transmission was seen as a positive by many drivers, offering greater control and engagement.
Legacy
The Renault Kangoo III 1.3 TCe has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The H5H engine, while not without its minor issues, has generally demonstrated good durability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and spark plug replacement. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and affordable minivan with reasonable running costs. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
