Renault Koleos II (HZG) (2016 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.8/10

The Renault Koleos II (Internal code: HZG) marks Renault's ambitious push into the D-SUV segment. Built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's CMF-CD platform, it shares its underpinnings and powertrains with the Nissan X-Trail (T32). Manufactured primarily in Busan, South Korea (where it is sold as the Renault Samsung QM6), the Koleos II abandoned the quirky styling of its predecessor for a more premium, muscular design aligned with the Talisman and Megane IV. Unlike its Nissan sibling or rivals like the Peugeot 5008, the Koleos is strictly a 5-seater, prioritizing second-row legroom and trunk space over a third row. It received two facelifts (Phase 2 in 2019, Phase 3 in 2021) which brought improved materials, updated R-Link 2 / EasyLink infotainment systems, and cleaner 'Blue dCi' a

✅ Strengths

Excellent ride comfort and cabin insulation
Class-leading rear legroom
Robust Nissan-sourced 2.0 dCi and naturally aspirated petrol engines
High level of standard equipment (especially Initiale Paris trim)
Strong value for money on the used market due to steep depreciation

⚠️ Weaknesses

No 7-seat option available (unlike Nissan X-Trail or Peugeot 5008)
R-Link 2 infotainment system is slow, buggy, and visually dated
X-Tronic CVT dulls driving dynamics and engine response
High fuel consumption on 2.5L petrol models
Interior plastics lower down in the cabin feel cheap for a D-SUV

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Koleos II is a highly underrated D-SUV on the used market. Because it lacks a 7-seat option and carries the Renault badge in a segment dominated by premium or highly practical rivals, it suffers from heavy depreciation. This makes it an absolute bargain for used buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped 5-seater. Mechanically, it is essentially a Nissan X-Trail in a French tailored suit. The 2.0 dCi is the pick of the range for heavy users and towers, while the 1.3 TCe is excellent for mixed daily driving. Buyers in markets with the 2.5L petrol get a bulletproof, albeit thirsty, engine. The main caveats are the sluggish R-Link 2 system and the Jatco CVT—if you buy an automatic, ensure the gearbox fluid has been serviced, or budget for it immediately.