Renault Kadjar I (HFE) (2015 – 2022)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The Renault Kadjar (Generation I, internal code HFE) is a C-segment compact crossover SUV introduced in 2015. Sharing the CMF-C/D platform with its highly successful corporate cousin, the Nissan Qashqai J11, the Kadjar was designed to offer a more comfortable, softer-riding, and slightly more spacious alternative. Phase 1 (2015–2018): Characterized by a comfortable ride and practical interior, but plagued by the disastrous 1.2 TCe engine and a buggy early version of the R-Link 2 infotainment system. Phase 2 (Facelift, 2018–2022): A major turning point. Renault introduced subtle exterior tweaks, improved interior material quality, updated the infotainment, and most importantly, replaced the problematic 1.2 TCe with the excellent 1.3 TCe engine co-developed with Mercedes-Benz. Overall Rating

✅ Strengths

Excellent ride comfort and suspension compliance
Spacious boot (472 liters) and practical modularity (flat-folding seats)
Outstanding fuel economy from the 1.5 dCi engine
The 1.3 TCe engine transforms the petrol driving experience (post-2018)
Strong value for money on the used market compared to the VW Tiguan or Peugeot 3008

⚠️ Weaknesses

Catastrophic reliability of the 1.2 TCe engine (pre-2018)
Interior material quality and fit/finish lag behind class leaders (creaks and rattles are common)
R-Link 2 infotainment system is slow, unintuitive, and buggy on early models
Dry-clutch EDC automatic transmission (on 1.2 TCe and 1.5 dCi) can be jerky and prone to clutch wear
Wind noise around the A-pillars at highway speeds

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Kadjar is a tale of two cars. If you are looking at a pre-facelift petrol model (2015-2018) with the 1.2 TCe engine, walk away immediately due to severe reliability risks. However, if you choose a post-facelift model (2019+) with the superb 1.3 TCe engine, or any year with the bulletproof 1.5 dCi diesel, the Kadjar becomes a highly recommendable, comfortable, and budget-friendly family SUV. Always favor manual gearboxes or the wet-clutch EDC over the dry-clutch EDC for long-term peace of mind.