The Renault Kangoo III Rapid 1.5 Blue dCi, producing 115 horsepower, represents a practical and efficient offering within the third generation of the Kangoo van range, launched in 2021. Positioned as a work-focused variant, the Rapid trim prioritizes cargo capacity and functionality over outright luxury. This model is primarily aimed at commercial users and businesses requiring a versatile, compact van for deliveries and trades. It builds upon the Kangoo III platform (also shared with the Mercedes-Benz Citan), offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern technology. The ‘Blue dCi’ designation signifies Renault’s latest diesel engine technology, designed to meet stringent Euro 6d emission standards.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Kangoo |
| Generation | Kangoo III Rapid |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 142-143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d Full |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750 rpm (199.14 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1410-1446 kg (3108.52 – 3187.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 579-615 kg (1276.48 – 1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3300 l (116.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3900 l (137.73 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 | 4486 mm (176.61 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2159 mm (85 in.) |
| Height | 1864 mm (73.39 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) | 169 mm (6.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kangoo III Rapid 1.5 Blue dCi utilizes the K9K 876 engine, a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Renault’s Blue dCi family, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue to minimize harmful emissions and meet Euro 6d standards. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 115 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, contributing to its durability and ease of maintenance. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 Blue dCi 115 hp engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for typical commercial van duties. Acceleration is not its strong suit, taking around 12 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). However, the engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for carrying loads and navigating urban environments. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears for relaxed highway cruising. Compared to higher-output versions of the Kangoo, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission provides drivers with greater control, but it lacks the convenience of an automatic for stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rapid trim level focuses on practicality. Standard equipment typically includes air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, electric front windows, and a driver’s airbag. The interior is functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-clean surfaces. Optional extras could include a rearview camera, parking sensors, upgraded audio systems, and a navigation system. The emphasis is on providing a comfortable and functional workspace for drivers, rather than luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The Kangoo III Rapid features a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned to prioritize stability when carrying loads, and the steering is light and easy to use. The vehicle’s relatively low weight helps to contribute to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Kangoo III Rapid 1.5 Blue dCi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient work van. Its strong points were its cargo capacity, low running costs, and reliability. Compared to petrol-powered alternatives, the diesel engine offered significantly better fuel economy. Compared to higher-powered diesel versions, the 115 hp variant represented a more affordable option, albeit with slightly reduced performance. Some reviewers noted that the interior was somewhat basic, but this was considered acceptable given the van’s target market.
Legacy
The K9K engine family has a long-standing reputation for durability and reliability. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the Blue dCi variants with DPF and SCR systems represent Renault’s efforts to address these concerns. On the used car market, the Kangoo III Rapid 1.5 Blue dCi remains a popular choice for businesses and individuals seeking a reliable and affordable van. Regular maintenance, including timely DPF regeneration and AdBlue refills, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of the powertrain.
