The Renault Koleos Phase II 2.5, produced from 2011 to 2013, represented a mid-cycle refresh of Renault’s entry into the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a more affordable and practical alternative to premium European SUVs, the Koleos aimed to provide a blend of comfort, space, and all-weather capability. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) paired with a four-wheel-drive system, was a significant offering in the Koleos lineup, targeting buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was primarily sold in markets outside of North America, finding success in Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Koleos |
| Generation | Koleos (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (170 Hp) CVT 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) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 228 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| 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 capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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 CVT |
| 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 was the 2TR engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized multi-point fuel injection and a naturally aspirated design, prioritizing reliability and smooth power delivery over outright performance. The 2TR engine, while not known for being particularly innovative, was a workhorse, commonly found in other Renault-Nissan Alliance vehicles. The engine’s 9.6:1 compression ratio was a compromise between efficiency and performance. Paired with this engine was a six-speed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). CVTs are known for providing smooth, stepless acceleration and maximizing fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power band. However, they often lack the direct feel of a traditional automatic transmission and can sometimes exhibit a “rubber band” effect during hard acceleration. The 4×4 system was typically an on-demand system, automatically engaging all-wheel drive when wheel slip was detected, enhancing traction in adverse conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Koleos 2.5 CVT 4×4 offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The 170 horsepower engine, while adequate, didn’t provide particularly brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.8 seconds reflects this. The CVT transmission contributed to smooth acceleration, but also meant that the engine often droned at a constant RPM during acceleration, which some drivers found unappealing. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced stability and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces. Compared to the diesel variants available in Europe, the 2.5-liter gasoline engine offered less torque, resulting in a less effortless feel, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. Manual transmission options were not available with this engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Koleos Phase II 2.5 CVT 4×4 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with CD player, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a more advanced audio system with navigation. Safety features included ABS brakes, front and side airbags, and electronic stability control. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, offering comfortable seating for five adults. The Phase II refresh brought minor updates to the interior trim and dashboard design.
Chassis & Braking
The Koleos utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The Koleos’s weight of around 3650 pounds meant that the braking system needed to work reasonably hard to bring the vehicle to a halt. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Koleos 2.5 CVT 4×4 was generally well-received as a practical and comfortable SUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, the engine was often criticized for being underpowered, and the CVT transmission wasn’t universally liked. Compared to the diesel-powered Koleos models, the 2.5-liter gasoline engine offered lower fuel economy and less torque. However, it was often more affordable to purchase and maintain. Competitors in this segment included the Nissan X-Trail (which shared many components with the Koleos), the Hyundai ix35, and the Kia Sportage.
Legacy
The Renault Koleos 2.5 CVT 4×4 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the 2TR engine being known for its durability. The CVT transmission, while sometimes prone to issues, generally holds up well with regular maintenance. On the used car market, these Koleos models represent a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for CVT transmission issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Koleos, while not a sales leader, established Renault as a player in the competitive compact SUV segment and paved the way for future models.
