Renault Grand Koleos Korea Launch Review: Origins, Specs, Comfort & Drawbacks

1. Origins of the Koleos

Debuted as a bold concept at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, the Koleos concept car showcased Renault’s vision for a family-friendly yet rugged SUV with innovative interior layouts.
In 2007, it entered production in Korea as the QM5 before being branded “Koleos” globally, carving out a niche between traditional family crossovers and off-roaders.
With its second generation, Renault tapped the Renault-Nissan CMF-CD modular platform—sharing underpinnings with the Nissan X-Trail and Infiniti QX50—to boost parts commonality, quality, and cost efficiency.
The 2024 Korean debut of the Grand Koleos marks a new chapter: built on Geely’s CMA architecture, it ups the ante with electrified powertrains and a more spacious cabin.

Dimensions: At 4,673 mm long, 2,063 mm wide (including mirrors), and 1,678 mm tall, the Grand Koleos stakes its claim as one of the roomiest mid-size SUVs in the Korean market.
Wheelbase & Suspension: A 2,705 mm wheelbase paired with a multi-link rear setup delivers a supple ride without sacrificing stability.
Powertrains:
- E-Tech Hybrid: 1.5 L turbocharged petrol engine + electric motor (combined fuel economy 9.8–11.1 km/L)
- 2.0 L diesel engine (150–190 PS), 8-speed automatic, available electronic 4WD
Cargo & Comfort: 563 L of trunk space (expandable to 2,034 L with rear seats folded), powered tailgate, reclining second-row seats, dual-zone climate control and multiple USB outlets make it ideal for Korean families and weekend getaways.

Renault-Nissan CMF-CD: The second-gen Koleos leveraged this alliance platform to streamline development across several models, enhancing durability and reducing service complexity.
Geely’s CMA Architecture: For Korea’s 2024 Grand Koleos, Renault partnered with Geely’s CEVT to adopt CMA—the same lightweight, highly modular chassis under Volvo XC40, Polestar 2, and Lynk & Co 01—enabling efficient electrification.
In-House E-Tech Hybrid: Drawing on F1 KERS expertise and pure-EV R&D, Renault’s proprietary E-Tech system optimizes electric-to-engine transitions for seamless performance without third-party licensing.

Whisper-Quiet Cabin: Road vibration and external noise are muted so effectively that conversations and music come through crystal-clear—even at highway speeds.
Effortless Powertrain Blending: The switch between electric motor and petrol engine is so fluid you barely notice, especially in stop-and-go Seoul traffic where electric drive dominates.
Spacious Second Row: With generous legroom and reclining seats, even adult passengers travel in comfort. Thoughtful touches like rear USB ports, cup holders, and sunshades underscore Renault’s family-first focus.

Regenerative Braking Feel: Initial regen braking can feel abrupt, and with limited sensitivity adjustments, drivers may need time to adapt.
Lag in Mid-Range Acceleration: In the 60–80 km/h band, a noticeable delay in throttle response can make overtaking feel less immediate.
Infotainment Responsiveness: Occasional lag in screen transitions (e.g. tunnel entry brightness adjustment) and sporadic touchscreen stuttering highlight room for UI refinement.
Engine Restart Noise: After electric-only cruising, the moment the petrol engine kicks back in can bring a brief spike in noise and vibration inside the cabin.