Hello.
I am Uniji (Yuka Post), an automotive influencer.
Last year, Renault Korea's ambitious flagship mid-size SUV, the Grand Koleos, generated significant buzz in the domestic automotive market. It debuted globally at the '2024 Busan Mobility Show' held in June and began full-scale deliveries in September. However, Renault Korea faced controversy during this time, which severely impacted its brand image. As customer reactions to the new model remained lukewarm, Renault Korea's sense of crisis intensified over time.
However, as time passed, the true value of the Grand Koleos began to shine through. The genuine experiences shared by owners helped boost ongoing sales. Renault Korea achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing 10,000 cumulative sales in the shortest period among its new models, and by January, it had sold over 24,000 units, marking a significant sales achievement.
Renault Korea, which had long ranked last in the domestic automotive market, saw a complete turnaround following the launch of the new mid-size SUV, the Grand Koleos. Recently, it made headlines by winning two awards at the '2025 Korea Car of the Year' ceremony organized by the Korea Automotive Journalists Association.
In addition, the Grand Koleos won awards in both the 'Hybrid SUV of the Year' and 'Internal Combustion Engine SUV of the Year' categories, further proving its excellent product value. The Korea Automotive Journalists Association selects a total of 12 'Korea Car of the Year' winners each year from new models released within the year, rigorously evaluating them across various categories including internal combustion engine (sedan/wagon/coupe), internal combustion engine (SUV), hybrid (sedan), hybrid (SUV), EV (sedan), EV (SUV), EV (crossover), utility, MPV, luxury, performance, and design.
They conducted real-world tests to choose the winners in each of the 12 categories, evaluating 22 criteria across five categories: design, performance, convenience/safety, economy, and innovation. The Grand Koleos E-Tech Hybrid received an overwhelming 94.1% of the votes from automotive journalists, earning the title of the best hybrid SUV of the year. Meanwhile, the Grand Koleos 2.0 gasoline turbo also garnered more than half of the votes, winning the award for internal combustion engine SUV of the year.
The Grand Koleos E-Tech Hybrid, which received overwhelming votes from automotive journalists, also dominates in sales. It accounts for a substantial portion of total Grand Koleos sales, boasting impressive performance with a system output of 245 horsepower and a combined fuel efficiency of 37 miles per gallon (15.7 km/L based on the Techno trim with 19-inch tires). This model not only excels in dynamic performance but also offers excellent fuel efficiency. Additionally, it features advanced NVH reduction technology, ensuring outstanding quietness, setting it apart from other mid-size SUVs in its class.
Furthermore, the Grand Koleos 2.0 gasoline turbo model, which won the internal combustion engine SUV award, delivers a powerful output of 211 horsepower and a maximum torque of 33.2 kg.m. This model achieves an impressive certified combined fuel efficiency of 26 miles per gallon (11.1 km/L), maximizing fuel efficiency. It is also the only model in its class to receive three certifications as a low-emission vehicle, providing various benefits such as discounts on public parking fees nationwide.
Moreover, the Grand Koleos has received positive feedback from domestic consumers for its high safety standards and spacious, comfortable interior. It features the longest wheelbase in its class at 111 inches (2,820 mm), providing ample rear-seat legroom. Advanced NVH reduction technology enhances comfort and quietness in the cabin. The vehicle's structure includes 18% ultra-high-strength 'hot-pressed forming (HPF)' components and comes equipped with up to 31 advanced driving assistance and convenience features, enhancing safety.
Additionally, the Grand Koleos is the first domestic model to feature an open-all panorama screen that extends to the passenger side. Passengers can enjoy video content from various channels, including YouTube and cinema OTT services, while on the move. Starting from 2025, customers will receive unlimited 5G data for five years, allowing them to connect the Grand Koleos' hotspot feature to various electronic devices and Wi-Fi communications.
Meanwhile, a Renault Korea representative stated, "The Grand Koleos embodies the Renault Group's core value of a human-first philosophy, completed through extensive global collaboration and the passion of our domestic researchers. We will continue to strive to exceed customer expectations with our technology and vehicles."
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