Renault Kadjar S Edition 2019: Refined Family Crossover

The 2019 Renault Kadjar S Edition represents a thoughtful evolution in the competitive family SUV market. This mid-life update introduces a standout 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine, subtle exterior refreshes, and interior enhancements that prioritise everyday usability. Positioned as a practical yet stylish option, it appeals to families needing space, efficiency, and modern tech without breaking the bank.

Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics

At the heart of the Kadjar S Edition is the new **1.3 TCe petrol engine**, producing 138-140bhp and co-developed with Mercedes. This unit replaces the older 1.2-litre and delivers smooth acceleration with 240Nm of torque, enabling confident overtaking and a 0-60mph time around 9.7-10 seconds. Reviewers note its refinement, describing it as quieter and more responsive than predecessors, making it suitable for both urban commutes and motorway runs.

Paired standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, the transmission is competent though not the slickest in class—lacking the precision of rivals like the Skoda Karoq. An optional seven-speed automatic adds £1,500 and shifts smoothly but can hesitate from a standstill. Fuel economy hovers around real-world figures better than the old 1.2-litre, appealing to petrol-preferring buyers (about 70% of sales).

Handling remains user-friendly with light steering ideal for city driving and reasonable composure on highways. Ride comfort is commendable even on 19-inch alloys, absorbing bumps effectively, though it trails sportier options like the SEAT Ateca in dynamism.

Design Updates and Exterior Appeal

Renault’s facelift brings a redesigned grille, new bumpers, and chrome accents for a more premium look. The S Edition elevates this with **LED headlights and fog lights**, 19-inch ‘Zeus’ diamond-cut alloys, front/rear skid plates, and a fixed panoramic sunroof that enhances cabin brightness. Available in colours like Cosmos Blue, it exudes Gallic flair without ostentation.

• Full LED lighting for better visibility and style.
• Panoramic roof standard on S Edition.
• Chrome trims and skid plates add rugged elegance.

Dimensions stay family-oriented: length around 4.45m, providing a stable stance competitive with the Nissan Qashqai.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Inside, the Kadjar shines with space for five. Rear legroom and headroom accommodate adults comfortably, surpassing some rivals. The 472-litre boot is well-shaped, larger than the Qashqai’s, with a modular floor for flexible loading—raise it for flat space or lower for depth. Boot levers allow one-touch 60/40 split-folding seats, and enlarged door bins improve utility.

Key cabin upgrades include flush-mounted 7-inch touchscreen with R-LINK2 system, smartphone mirroring, DAB radio, and Bluetooth. New climate dials with mini-displays are intuitive, outpacing fiddly buttons in older models or some competitors. Seats feature extendable bases, faux leather/fabric upholstery with blue stitching, and the panoramic roof amplifies airiness.

This table highlights the Kadjar’s strong practicality scores.

Standard Equipment and Trim Breakdown

The S Edition bridges Iconic and GT Line trims, starting around £24,000-£25,000. It builds on base spec (auto lights/wipers, cruise control, dual-zone climate, rear sensors) with:

• LED lights and 19-inch wheels.
• Panoramic sunroof and premium upholstery.
• TomTom Live services, parking camera (some units).

Iconic saves £1,500 with similar essentials; GT Line adds safety like AEB and blind-spot monitoring, absent here—a noted shortfall.

Safety and Reliability Considerations

Standard aids include lane departure warning (Iconic+), hill start assist, and tyre pressure monitoring. However, key features like autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot detection are GT Line-only, lagging rivals. Euro NCAP ratings for the pre-facelift were solid (5 stars), with updates maintaining adequacy.

Renault’s five-year warranty (some markets) bolsters confidence.

Competitor Comparison

Versus **Nissan Qashqai**: Kadjar offers bigger boot and better engine refinement but smaller screen and fewer safety standards.

Against **Skoda Karoq**: Karoq edges in handling and boot space, but Kadjar counters with style and value.

Other foes like SEAT Ateca prioritize fun; Kadjar focuses on comfort.

Ownership Costs and Verdict

Running costs are competitive: efficient engine, reasonable insurance, and strong residuals in class. Servicing aligns with rivals. The S Edition delivers high equipment for price, ideal for families valuing ease over thrills.

Overall, the 2019 Kadjar S Edition excels in refinement and space, with the 1.3 TCe as the smart choice. Minor safety gaps aside, it’s a compelling buy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)