2025 Renault Koleos Techno review - Long-term owner

Multimedia and safety technology: 9/10

Safety is adequate without constant, annoying "keep your eyes on the road" intrusions. Screen access to the air con has been critized in a number of reviews but it isn't difficult with quick and easy access at the bottom. The Max de-fog selection for clearing the windscreen is the best in any brand I have driven or tested. Loving the heated mirrors and seats.

Practicality: 10/10

It's a minor issue but the size of the cupholders could be better. Otherwise the layout suits us. The sunvisors are amazing, able to slide back and forth when on the side windows. Cargo capacity is a stand-out feature as we regularly have large loads to carry with seats up and down. Nothing in the price or vehicle size range comes close.

Driving: 9/10

This is one of the most under-rated cars on the market. With European styling and comfort it offers more bang-for-buck than any other brand including Chinese brands currently flooding the market. With Melbourne's pothole abundance the ride is challenged every trip and soaks up most irregularities extremely well. The engine isn't race car-like but is ample for us. Certainly one of the better CVT's (Continuously Variable Transmissions) I have driven and feels like a European car, making my daily trips to and from work and the occassional business pick up very enjoyable.

Running costs: 9/10

With a seven-year, unlimited km warranty, seven-year roadside assistance and 30,000km or 12 month fixed price servicing, running costs was a big factor in choosing this car. Fuel economy so far for city driving is better than quoted with us averaging no more than 9.1L/100km, currently running around 8.6-8.7L/100km. Shopping around for insurance we found it comparable to Nissan/Toyota/Mazda insurance costs.

Reliability: 10/10

With over 5000km we have no issues in our first three months of ownership, and with the backing of a well-known platform, we don't expect any.