Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Kangoo Trakka 4x4

Let's be honest - most 4x4s are bought as a fashion accessory. So why would anybody want an off-roader which looks as odd as the Renault Kangoo?

Kangoo Trakka

The French company's van-based mini-MPV, whose peculiar styling puts practicality above posing power, has bizarrely been given the ability to go mud-plugging. So is this a cynical bid to give the Kangoo more credibility or a sensible solution for family 4x4 buyers on a budget? Called the Kangoo Trakka, it certainly looks the part, with raised suspension, wheelarch extensions and chunky bumpers that mimic 'proper' off-roaders. Inside, new airline-style overhead bins boost load space.

Advertisement - Article continues below

But the changes are not merely cosmetic. Borrowing the Scenic RX4's permanent four-wheel-drive has given the Trakka real off-road ability. Grip is sufficient to tackle tough inclines and the 4x4 system prevents the Renault from bogging down in deep mud. But the demands of off-roading take a toll. Noise fills the cabin over rough terrain as everything around you seems to be shaking itself to bits, and power feels in short supply on really steep tracks.

On the road, the Trakka is nearly as capable as the standard Kangoo. The light steering and manoeuvrability have not been sacrificed by the addition of four-wheel-drive, and the car is composed and relatively refined despite its commercial origins. Some body roll is inevitable at higher speeds, but at a slower pace the Trakka is a capable road vehicle. Power for our car came from an all-new 1.6-litre 16-valve petrol engine delivering 95bhp and 148Nm of torque at 3,750rpm. Although good for 32.9mpg, it will be bettered by the forthcoming 1.9 dCi turbodiesel already used by the Megane and Scenic.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,886
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,935 off RRP*Used from £13,135
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,214 off RRP*Used from £10,395
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,930
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 grant for new EVs sold
News
15 Jul 2025