Renault scores on doors as Kangoo family squares up

Boxy is beautiful – and if you don’t believe us, take a look at Renault’s Kangoo Compact! The quirky model, which debuted in Frankfurt, shows how the three-door version of the French budget MPV will look.

Look beyond the eye-catching orange colour scheme, and the chunky design and stubby proportions are clear to see. Its striking rear windows are expected to make production, and buyers could even get the option of the concept’s panoramic glass roof.

Renault also introduced the road-ready five-door version of the new Kangoo at the German show. It has a more conservative appearance than the three-door to ensure both vehicles have their own unique identity.

Inside comfort, refinement and quality have been improved from the outgoing Kangoo. Unlike that car, which was van-based, the new model uses the same platform as the Scenic compact MPV, and so should have better driving dynamics. The new Kangoo is also 180mm longer than the outgoing car and offers more cabin and load space than before.

Boot capacity is up from 650 to 660 litres, and if you collapse the flat-folding rear seats, there’s 2,866 litres available – a massive 266 litres more than the old car.

Engine options include a pair of petrol units and one diesel. However, the 1.5-litre dCi will be available in three states of tune – 69bhp, 84bhp and 103bhp – with the two entry-level oil-burners boasting CO2 emissions below 140g/km. Both three and five-door Kangoo models are expected to hit UK showrooms next autumn. Prices are yet to be announced.

Renault has also developed a new 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine. It develops 261bhp and 550Nm of torque, and will be offered with a six-speed automatic gearbox. The fresh unit will be available in hatch, estate and coupé versions of the new Laguna.