Renault Koleos successor starts testing in Europe, early-2016 launch - Spied

31/07/2015 - 12:10 Renault Koleos, Renault, Spy pictures Anjan Ravi

Could get a different name.

Renault has started testing its D-segment SUV, what will replace the slow-selling Renault Koleos, in Europe ahead of a planned debut in early-2016, possibly at the Geneva Motor Show.

2016 Renault Talisman front quarter (1) unveiled — Despite the camouflage, the front of the prototype bears resemblance to the Talisman.

Test mules of the D-segment SUV (link to spyshots attached below) show a front fascia inspired by the recently-unveiled Renault Talisman, an overall length similar to the Nissan X-Trail and an attractive rear with a shark-fin antenna.

The D-segment SUV is expected to be based on the CMF platform, sharing its underpinnings with the X-Trail which was revealed at the 2013 edition of the Frankfurt Motor Show. However, it remains to be seen if Renault offers a similar seating layout on its SUV (the X-Trail features a 5+2 seating layout).

Speaking to Indian Autos Blog in May this year, Laurens van den Acker, Senior Vice President, Corporate Design, Renault, said that Renault already has 7-seater offerings in the Espace and Scenic, but added that we would have to wait until early-2016 to learn more about the product.

New Nissan X-Trail engine bay at CAMPI 2014 — The Renault SUV would borrow its engines from the Nissan X-Trail.

Engine options though are expected to be carried over from the X-Trail which comes with 2.0- and 2.5-liter petrol engines and a 1.6-liter diesel engine with standard 2WD and optional 4WD drivetrains.

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Post its launch abroad, Renault India could consider the D-segment SUV to replace the Koleos, which received a facelift last year.

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