The Renault Koleos Phase II 2.0 (150 hp) 4×4 Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2013, represented a significant iteration of Renault’s entry into the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Koleos lineup, this variant aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency, all-weather capability, and comfortable, automatic transmission convenience. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a more affordable and practical alternative to premium SUV brands. The Koleos Phase II benefited from styling updates and refinements over the original model, enhancing its appeal to family buyers seeking a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Koleos |
| Generation | Koleos (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (150 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 186 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1709 kg (3767.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 591 kg (1302.93 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17 99H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Koleos 2.0 4×4 Automatic is the Renault M9R engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The M9R engine is known for its relatively robust construction and ability to handle moderate tuning. The 150 horsepower peak is achieved at 4000 rpm, while the substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque is available from just 2000 rpm, providing good low-end grunt for everyday driving and towing. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and convenience. This transmission was designed to handle the engine’s torque output and offer a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter diesel engine and automatic transmission combination in the Koleos delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.7 seconds, which is adequate for most driving situations but doesn’t offer exhilarating performance. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth shifts and prioritizes fuel efficiency over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The 4×4 system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather or light off-road use. The gear ratios are tuned for cruising comfort, with a focus on maintaining low engine speeds at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Koleos 2.0 4×4 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system. Safety features like ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard across the range. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Koleos Phase II utilizes an independent suspension setup at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Koleos 2.0 4×4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable SUV. However, it wasn’t often considered a class leader in terms of driving dynamics or interior refinement. Compared to other trims in the Koleos lineup, the 2.0-liter diesel automatic offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The 1.6-liter petrol versions were less powerful and offered poorer fuel consumption, while the more powerful 2.5-liter petrol models were more expensive. Fuel economy figures of around 33.1 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the automatic transmission.
Legacy
The Renault Koleos 2.0 4×4 Automatic has established itself as a relatively affordable and practical used SUV. The M9R diesel engine, while not without its potential issues (particularly concerning the DPF), is generally considered durable if properly maintained. The automatic transmission, while not the most responsive, has proven to be reasonably reliable. Today, these vehicles can be found at attractive price points, making them a viable option for buyers seeking a spacious and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a diesel vehicle, including DPF regeneration and potential injector issues.
