Renault Kangoo I Express (FC, facelift 2003) 1.9 dTi (80 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.3 / 10
Safety 2.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Renault Kangoo:

The Renault Kangoo is a family of vans built by Renault since 1997 across three generations. It is sold as a passenger multi-purpose vehicle or as a light commercial vehicle. For the European market, the Kangoo is manufactured at the MCA plant in Maubeuge, France.
The Kangoo was also marketed as a rebadged variant by Nissan in Europe as the Nissan Kubistar , Nissan NV250 and Nissan Townstar. In September 2012, Mercedes-Benz began marketing a rebadged variant of the second generation Kangoo as the Mercedes-Benz Citan, which is also marketed as Mercedes EQT and Mercedes T-Class for the current generation....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I Express (FC, facelift 2003) Overview:

Renault Kangoo (I Express (FC, facelift 2003)). With 160 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1185 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.9 dTi (80 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers a good balance of power and torque for general utility, making it capable for mixed driving conditions.

Fuel Economy

Very good fuel efficiency for a direct injection turbo diesel of its era, a strong point for running costs.

Best Use Case: Mixed city and highway driving, light commercial use, longer commutes.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Highly versatile and practical interior with generous cargo space
  • • Economical diesel engine options (especially 1.5 dCi)
  • • Convenient sliding rear doors for easy access in tight spaces
  • • Affordable to buy and run, offering excellent value for money
  • • Robust build quality suitable for utility and light commercial use

Cons:

  • • Basic interior quality and materials, lacking refinement
  • • Limited safety features by modern standards (2-star Euro NCAP)
  • • Some engines, particularly the lower-powered petrols and diesels, can feel underpowered
  • • Ride comfort can be unrefined, especially when unladen
  • • Older diesel engines may have specific maintenance considerations

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (KC): 2002 - 2003).

General:
Brand:Renault
Model:Kangoo
Generation:I Express (FC, facelift 2003)
Modification (Engine):1.9 dTi (80 Hp)
Start of production:2003
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:2
Doors:3/4
Engine:
Power:80 Hp @ 4500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:42.8 Hp/l [40mm more]
Torque:160 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:F9Q More details about the engine F9Q
Engine displacement:1870
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:4.6 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:80 mm
Piston Stroke:93 mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:5.7 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:14.8 kg/Hp, 67.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.4 kg/Nm, 135 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1185
Max. weight:1885
Max load:700
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:3000 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):805 kg
Fuel tank capacity:50 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:540 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Size:
Length:4035 mm [40mm more]
Width:1672 mm [9mm more]
Height:1835 mm [8mm more]
Wheelbase:2605 mm [5mm more]
Width including mirrors:2031 mm
Front track:1405 mm
Rear (Back) track:1410 mm
Front overhang:730 mm
Rear overhang:700 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.95 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size175/65 R14
Wheel rims size14
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionTrailing arm

If you could change one thing about the Renault Kangoo, what would it be?