Renault plans to reveal a new cross-over SUV, named Kadjar, in the first week of February.
Based on the information available so far – and Renault is yet to reveal official pics of the new model – Kadjar will be to Koleos what Nissan's Qashqai is to the X-TRAIL. Renault describes the Kadjar as a global C-segment cross-over SUV, meaning it's the car Renault Australia MD Justin Hocevar told motoring.com.au during last year's Paris motor show was unlikely for Australia. As of today, Renault Australia Corporate Communications Manager Emily Fadeyev informs us that the Kadjar is not ruled out entirely. In fact, reading between the lines, it's a stronger prospect now than it appeared to be back in October.
"Kadjar is still under study for the Australian market and is not confirmed at this time. We are still in the discussion with head office about a possible business case for Australia," Ms Fadeyev told motoring.com.au.
Renault settled on the Kadjar name for its composite likeness to 'quad' (for four-wheeled vehicle) and the French words 'agile' and 'jaillir', meaning agility and a sudden appearance, respectively. So, the synthesised name hints at a vehicle that bursts onto a scene when least expected. It also sounds exotic, according to Renault, and shares its hybrid naming with Volkswagen's Tiguan.
The Kadjar would slip into the local range – assuming it is approved for sale in Australia – between the Koleos and the Captur.
More information will become available from February 2.
Pictured: Next-gen Koleos mule