Choose from 75bhp 1.2-litre and 95bhp 1.6 16v petrols and an 84bhp 1.5-litre turbodiesel. The petrol units all provide reasonable performance but aren’t especially lively. If you’re planning on hauling great loads the 1.2 petrol is least favourite. The turbodiesel offers relaxed cruising and better economy than the automatic-only 1.6 16v petrol.

Feeling like a throwback to French cars of old, the Kangoo has long-travel suspension giving the Renault an absorbent ride no matter what the terrain. It takes its time to bite into corners and the high sides contribute to a certain amount of body roll in bends, but it clings on well.

Refinement has been improved over the years thanks to better soundproofing, and occupants are now less bothered by mechanical and wind noise than on early Kangoos. There’s a fair amount of road noise, however.

The Kangoo looks like better value for money than previously because of the reasonable smattering of standard kit, although list prices are still on the high side. What’s more, the Renault is unlikely to hold on to its value that well. Servicing and insurance costs should be fairly low, however, while fuel economy is good, particularly on the frugal 1.5 diesel model, and company car tax ratings are reasonable on most versions.

The Kangoo is well put together using durable, if not high quality, materials and proven mechanicals, so there’s no need to fear for its reliability. The dash feels solid although it could do with a little more styling flair.

All Kangoos have twin front airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard, while side ‘bags cost extra. Traction control isn’t available even as an option. Remote central locking and an immobiliser are fitted to all models, but that’s about it for security provision: there are no deadlocks and an alarm is optional.

The driving position in the van-based Kangoo is not at all bad, despite the absence of adjustment for the seat height or steering wheel. The front seats are reasonably supportive, while power steering eases your burden, and visibility is good all round.

The cabin is airy, the lofty roof means there’s lots of headroom and legroom is decent for all occupants. The tailgate rises exceedingly high and both rear doors slide for easy access. With the split-folding back seats down there’s a huge load area with a 2600-litre capacity. Expression trim adds an overhead parcel shelf and aircraft-style lockers for extra storage space, while Authentique models gain map pockets.

Equipment levels, although improved over early models, are still not particularly high. Every model has twin sliding rear doors, remote central locking and a stereo with steering wheel-mounted controls. Expression trim adds alloy wheels, electric front windows and mirrors and a CD player, and Authentique offers metallic paint.