Is the Renault Koleos Formula Edition the most racing-inspired SUV?

Renault presents a limited series of the SUV. 400 units of a crossover that claims to take inspiration from Formula 1

Renault knows how to build very sporty family cars. In fact, if I personally had to single out one, I would choose the brutal Renault Espace F1 prototype, but those were different times, and the 90s are behind us.

Now, what is popular in Belgium, in Europe and even on our antipodes is SUVs.

That is why, from Australia, Renault is presenting a limited series of 400 units for the local market of the Renault Koleos Formula Edition. In fact, the ambassador for this SUV is Daniel Ricciardo.

The Australian driver is now part of the team competing in the Formula 1 championship and, in the brand’s emphasis on continuing to link production and competition, it has seen fit to produce a special series inspired by the queen category of motorsport.

The Australian Renault Koleos Formula Edition

As I was saying, the architect of this series is Renault Australia, which has allocated 400 examples of the local vehicle, with right-hand drive, to offer at a price of AUD 36,940, 1,000 more than the equivalent standard version.

The brand wants to revive that good habit it once had of producing or marketing series of production cars linked to competition (who doesn’t remember that spectacular Renault Clio Williams from the early 90s, also inspired by the Formula 1 team?).

For this car, the brand has opted for the 2.5-litre petrol engine sold in the Australian market, which produces 170 CV and 226 Nm of torque, sent to the front axle which, together with the rear one, features huge Prometheus wheels of 19 inches.

The styling kit of this car also includes gloss black mirror caps and silver sill protectors, and it is available in three body colours: universal white, metallic grey and metallic black.

Only the “Formula Edition” decals distinguish this special edition on the outside from any other Renault Koleos, and inside, the heated leather-upholstered seats are exclusive, and the price of the package also includes driver assistance systems such as navigation, autonomous emergency braking and hill start assist.