Renault Koleos facelift revealed

In what must be the last revamp of the current model before a totally new replacement, Renault has released a revised version of the Nissan X-Trail-based Koleos compact SUV. It's a pretty thing as opposed to the first version -- with the current model falling in between.

It's pretty much the same underneath in front wheel drive and all wheel drive variants, and the Koleos's new clothes should be universally appealing as well as being identifiable as a Renault.

CHANGES

There's a new front, redesigned two-tone wheel, chrome finish of the side protective strips and a striking new colour called Ebony Brown. The cabin, benefits from new trim and when fitted, new leather upholstery.

New Koleos is equipped with the new in-dash Renault R-Link multimedia system complete with seven-inch touchscreen display. R-Link permits the selection of one of 26 languages and packs all the latest multimedia functions, from navigation, radio and telephony to Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as connectivity for portable music-playing devices.

It also proposes services associated with the vehicle's own systems, plus access to the Renault R-Link Store which has a catalogue of more than 50 applications (depending on country) that can be downloaded directly to the vehicle or using a personal computer.

Another important new feature of the car is the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) function which provides a visual alert whenever a vehicle is detected in the blind spot in order to facilitate safe overtaking.

A reversing camera combined with rear parking sensors provides a real-time image of what is behind the car on the R-Link system's display. A hands-free card, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control functions, and Bose audio round off the extensive list of high-end equipment available for New Renault Koleos.