2021 Renault Kangoo Aims To Steal VW Caddy’s Thunder With Hybrid, Electric Powertrains

The next-generation Renault Kangoo compact van will launch in autumn this year, not long after its arch-rival, the fifth-gen VW Caddy, arrives in dealerships across Europe.

Previewed by the Kangoo ZE Concept last year, the 2021 Renault Kangoo has not been seen in public until now, at least not in cargo van guise. That changes now as our photographers spotted a prototype undergoing cold weather testing near the Arctic Circle in northern Europe.

As you can see, the prototype is in cargo van configuration but we do know a passenger variant will also be available.

Read: Electric Renault Kangoo ZE Concept Previews Next-Generation Compact Van Coming In 2020

On the outside, the third-generation Kangoo appears more chunky than its predecessor, thanks in part to the new horizontal headlights which give the vehicle more visual width. We can’t see their final shape but we don’t expect it to be much different from the concept.

Expect similar upper and lower grilles, as well as vertical taillights with a C-shaped signature. Unfortunately, the full body wrap does not allow us to spot more details. Still, the 2021 Kangoo appears slightly wider and longer, which should translate into improved cargo volume and passenger space.

According to reports from French media, the upcoming Kangoo will switch to the CMF-C platform also used by the Megane compact. This will enable it to offer a 140 PS (138 HP) hybrid powertrain, as well as a 130 PS (128 HP) 1.3-liter TCe turbocharged four-cylinder unit and two 1.5-liter Blue dCi diesels with outputs of 85 PS (84 HP) and 115 PS (113 HP). The all-electric Kangoo Z.E. will be the last to arrive in 2021.

The new platform will also allow the new Kangoo to offer modern tech such as a tablet-style touchscreen-based infotainment system on higher-end trim levels and numerous driving aids. Expect more comfortable seats and more storage spaces compared to the current model.

Renault showed the Kangoo ZE electric concept last year

The all-new Renault Kangoo will be unveiled in spring 2020 as a cargo van, with the passenger version following in autumn 2020. Both the Kangoo and Kangoo Z.E. will be built at Renault’s MCA plant of Maubeuge, in the north of France. Renault has pledged to invest €450 million ($504 million) over five years in the facility.