Renault Koleos II (HZG) (2016 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The Renault Koleos II (HZG) represents Renault's push into the mid-size/large D-SUV segment. Built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-CD platform, it shares its underpinnings and powertrains with the Nissan X-Trail (T32). Unlike the X-Trail, the Koleos is strictly a 5-seater, focusing instead on rear passenger legroom and a more premium cabin experience, culminating in the luxurious Initiale Paris trim. Manufactured by Renault Korea Motors (sold locally as the Samsung QM6), it received two facelifts (Phase 2 in 2019, Phase 3 in 2021). While European markets were heavily diesel-focused initially, petrol engines (the robust Nissan-sourced naturally aspirated units globally, and the modern 1.3 TCe in Europe) offer superior long-term reliability, especially for urban users avoiding

✅ Strengths

Exceptional rear passenger legroom and cabin width.
Highly reliable naturally aspirated petrol engines (2.0L and 2.5L) in global markets.
1.3 TCe offers a great balance of modern efficiency and reliability in Europe.
High level of standard equipment, especially on Initiale Paris trims (Nappa leather, acoustic glass).
Comfort-oriented suspension setup, excellent for long journeys.
Capable All-Mode 4x4-i system (Nissan derived) on higher trims.

⚠️ Weaknesses

No 7-seat option available, unlike its twin, the Nissan X-Trail.
X-Tronic CVT can drone under hard acceleration and is expensive to replace if neglected.
R-Link 2 infotainment system is laggy, unintuitive, and prone to bugs on early models (2016-2018).
High fuel consumption on the 2.5L petrol engine.
Boot space is surprisingly average (498 liters) for a vehicle of this exterior size.

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Koleos II is a highly underrated used SUV. Because it lacks a 7-seat option and carries the Renault badge, it depreciates faster than its Nissan X-Trail sibling or Japanese rivals, making it a superb value proposition. If you are buying in Europe, seek out the 1.3 TCe petrol; it is modern, efficient, and avoids the DPF/AdBlue pitfalls of the diesels. If you are in Australia, Asia, or Latin America, the 2.5L petrol is a bulletproof, old-school engine that will easily surpass 300,000 km with basic care. The golden rule for the Koleos: The engine will outlast the car, but the Jatco CVT transmission will not unless it is serviced. Buy only if you can verify the gearbox fluid has been changed, or negotiate the price down to have it done immediately upon purchase.