This content was created after receiving a test vehicle from Renault Korea.
Hello, I’m Doubleview, an automotive influencer.
Recently, I had the opportunity to test drive the Renault Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech, which allowed me to experience everything from golfing at a local course to a food tour in the metropolitan area.
I enjoyed a wide range of experiences.
The Grand Koleos recently won three awards for 2025 SUV of the Year, and today I will share my insights on driving performance, real fuel efficiency, and the Esprit Alpine design during my long-distance test drive.
Is the eco-friendly hybrid car on the rise? The trend is the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech.
Is the eco-friendly hybrid car on the rise? The trend is the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech.
The Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech model features a 100 kW electric motor, allowing it to run on electricity alone for up to 75% of city driving.
This results in excellent fuel efficiency and remarkable quietness.
As electric vehicle sales have slowed, hybrid models have gained attention as the future of eco-friendly cars.
The positive feedback on the Hybrid E-Tech engine has contributed to a steady increase in sales.
Just looking at the Esprit Alpine design evokes a sense of uniqueness and luxury.
Recently, a limited edition of 999 units, the Esprit Alpine Noir Edition, was released and sold out in just 11 business days, confirming customer satisfaction with its design and options.
In addition to the entry-level Techno and Iconic trims, I recommend the Esprit Alpine for experiencing the true charm of the Grand Koleos.
Let’s leave the evaluation of design and options to my subscribers and dive into the detailed test drive experience.
The Grand Koleos, which won the 2025 SUV of the Year award, is leading the trend with its Hybrid E-Tech technology.
Hybrid vehicles do not require charging, as they recharge the battery using energy generated during driving, optimizing fuel consumption and providing convenience for everyday use. With a large 100 kW battery, the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech surpasses traditional hybrid systems.
With a large 100 kW battery, the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech surpasses traditional hybrid systems.
While test driving the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech Esprit Alpine trim, I experienced a combined fuel efficiency of 15.0 km/L (approximately 35.3 mpg).
However, during multiple test drives, I consistently achieved fuel efficiency exceeding the specifications, with this time reaching about 17 km/L (approximately 40 mpg).
I adjusted the regenerative braking intensity to 'low' to experience a driving feel similar to that of a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle, but when driving in traffic, switching to 'high' regenerative braking and maintaining a constant speed could easily yield over 20 km/L (approximately 47 mpg).
If you prefer not to worry about regenerative braking intensity while driving, you can simply set it to 'automatic.'
I usually choose Eco mode to achieve higher fuel efficiency, but if you want an exciting driving experience, you can switch to Sport mode.
In addition, I found the Snow mode effective during heavy snowfall, providing a satisfying driving experience.
You can easily control the driving modes through the 'Drive Mode' dial.
The Grand Koleos features an innovative OpenR panoramic screen!
In the photo below, you can see the 12.3-inch monitor located in front of the passenger seat, which features a privacy mode that prevents the person next to you from seeing what you’re viewing.
While this design prioritizes the safety of the driver, it allows the passenger to enjoy various content without distractions.
Moreover, with 5G connectivity, you can experience top-tier connection speeds and quality.
During a recent long-distance golf trip, I found the TMAP and the voice recognition program NUGU auto to be very useful, making me feel that cars are becoming increasingly smart.
Various driving assistance systems are equipped to make driving safer and more convenient. Inexperienced drivers often find parking challenging, but the Grand Koleos's auto-parking feature allows for safe and easy parking without anxiety.
Inexperienced drivers often find parking challenging, but the Grand Koleos's auto-parking feature allows for safe and easy parking without anxiety.
My wife and I enjoy listening to music while driving.
On one hand, we do it to enjoy our favorite songs, but on the other hand, we compare the sound systems of different cars.
Renault Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech test drive!
I took the Grand Koleos on a golf trip and hot spring visit in Asan.
Despite the increased traffic during the weekend, resulting in about 7 hours of round-trip driving, I enjoyed a comfortable ride thanks to the excellent noise insulation and the combination of the 100 kW electric motor.
On the open highway, I experienced the ample driving performance of 245 horsepower, and I found the overall satisfaction of this SUV to be remarkably high in terms of economy, stability, and acceleration.
The model I tested featured a Satin Urban Gray exterior color, which, combined with the design points of the Esprit Alpine trim, created a special design.
Inside, the Esprit Alpine features exclusive Nappa synthetic leather and a unique design with lettering, completing a special interior.
I recommend this trim for those who desire a special feel that is neither too flashy nor too plain.
The high capacity of the 100 kW electric motor allows for electric-only driving for up to 75% of city driving, leading to varied results depending on the driver, but overall, the fuel efficiency satisfaction of the Grand Koleos stands out as the best.
Moreover, the Esprit Alpine trim enhances the overall satisfaction with its design, catering to diverse customer needs.
I had previously focused on the fuel efficiency and quietness of the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech, but experiencing the Esprit Alpine trim revealed that its design satisfaction is also quite high.
Throughout the test drive, I showcased the vehicle to acquaintances, friends, and my wife, and it was clear that everyone found it visually appealing and luxurious.
Today, I shared my test drive experience of the 2025 SUV of the Year, the Grand Koleos Hybrid E-Tech, including insights on the Esprit Alpine's exterior design and interior features. During multiple test drives, I expressed high satisfaction with the driving feel of Renault's Hybrid E-Tech, and experiencing the top trim certainly changed my perspective.
During multiple test drives, I expressed high satisfaction with the driving feel of Renault's Hybrid E-Tech, and experiencing the top trim certainly changed my perspective.