The Renault Koleos Phase II 2.5 4×4, produced between 2011 and 2013, represented a mid-cycle refresh of Renault’s entry into the compact SUV segment. Developed in collaboration with Nissan, the Koleos aimed to provide a more comfortable and refined alternative to some of the more rugged SUVs available in the European and international markets. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission coupled with a four-wheel-drive system, occupied a mid-range position within the Koleos lineup, offering a balance between performance, capability, and price. It was primarily marketed towards families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for both urban driving and occasional off-road excursions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Koleos |
| Generation | Koleos (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (170 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 237 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 226 Nm @ 4400 rpm (166.69 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2TR |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1622 kg (3575.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 528 kg (1164.04 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 gears, manual 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 2.5 4×4 is the 2TR engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t employ forced induction like a turbocharger or supercharger. The 2TR produces 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 226 Nm (166.69 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes smooth operation and reasonable fuel efficiency over outright performance. The six-speed manual transmission provides drivers with direct control over gear selection, offering a more engaging driving experience compared to the automatic options available on other Koleos trims. The four-wheel-drive system is primarily front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels automatically when traction is lost, providing enhanced stability in slippery conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Koleos 2.5 4×4 with the manual transmission delivers a competent, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes approximately 10.4 seconds. The engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, but it can feel strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The manual gearbox allows for precise control, and the relatively long gear ratios are geared towards fuel economy. Compared to the higher-output engine options, this variant feels less responsive, but it offers a more economical and engaging driving experience for those who prefer a manual transmission. The 4×4 system provides added confidence on loose surfaces, but it’s not designed for serious off-roading.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 4×4 trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD player with auxiliary input, and basic safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a more advanced audio system. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The Koleos aimed for a more premium feel than some of its competitors, with a focus on build quality and interior refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The Koleos utilizes an independent suspension setup, 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. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. The Koleos’s chassis is tuned for comfort and stability rather than sporty handling, making it a pleasant vehicle for long-distance journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Koleos 2.5 4×4 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and build quality, it was often criticized for its uninspiring engine performance and relatively high price compared to some competitors. Compared to the diesel-powered Koleos variants, the 2.5-liter gasoline engine offered less torque and lower fuel economy. However, it was generally considered more reliable than some of the early diesel engines. The manual transmission was appreciated by driving enthusiasts, but it wasn’t as popular as the automatic options among the broader market.
Legacy
The Renault Koleos Phase II 2.5 4×4 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The 2TR engine is known for its durability, and the manual transmission is generally trouble-free. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the four-wheel-drive system and the suspension components. Today, the Koleos 2.5 4×4 represents an affordable and practical option for those seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV with all-wheel-drive capability. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle on the road, it offers a good balance of practicality, reliability, and value.
