RENAULT KADJAR 81 kw 1,5 dci EDC DYNAMIQUE

COMPARED with the other disruptions to your comfort zone that come with a change of home address, my new 40 km commute has actually proved the least jarring. Most notably, compared with my previous 9 km drive to the office, the longer route has not only afforded my long-term Kadjar an opportunity to impress in terms of comfort, but has also offered the car’s 1,5 dci drivetrain room to breathe. Combined with a recent trip to the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, the overall fuel consumption has decreased accordingly.

My new area code also affords me access to dealership workshops that weren’t previously an option. As such, I was excited at the prospect of not having to visit the much-maligned Paarden Eiland multi-franchise when it came time for the Renault’s scheduled 15 000 km service. Instead, I was treated to high levels of efficiency at DTM Renault in Strand. Friendly service aside, this is the first time I have been offered a courtesy lift both home and then back to the dealership on completion of the work.

Having previously mentioned quirks associated with the Kadjar’s keyless-entry system, particularly around its efficiency, a small adjustment to my approach to allow the system a bit more operating time has largely resolved any issues.

While the raised-bodied Kadjar certainly doesn’t shy away from gravel roads, the combination of a relatively firm ride and optional 19-inch alloy wheels (with corresponding low-profile rubber) fitted to this vehicle means that, unless the surface is smooth, firmer ruts, undulations and corrugations are transmitted into the cabin, in turn testing the integrity of some of the interior trims.