Renault Australia has introduced a new base variant for the Koleos lineup named Evolution at $34,990 before on-road costs. This revised pricing strategy marks a significant reduction from the outgoing entry-level Zen, last listed at $42,500, offering buyers a more accessible option in the mid-size SUV segment.
This repositioning comes as Renault aims to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving market dominated by fresher offerings from both Chinese and established brands.
Drive-Away pricing and market comparison
Depending on the state of registration, the 2025 Renault Koleos Evolution drive-away price ranges between $37,992 and $38,712—placing it directly in contention with budget-friendly competitors such as:
- GWM Haval H6 Ultra: $39,990 drive-away
- Jaecoo J7 Track: $37,990 drive-away
- MG HS Essence: $40,990 drive-away
It also comes in cheaper than many mainstream Japanese and Korean rivals, including:
- Honda CR-V: from $41,900
- Hyundai Tucson: from $39,100 before on-roads
- Kia Sportage: from $37,990 plus on-roads
- Mazda CX-5: from $36,740 plus on-roads
- Mitsubishi Outlander: from $39,990 plus on-roads
- Nissan X-Trail: from $38,025 plus on-roads
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: from $42,260 plus on-roads
Powertrain and efficiency
The Koleos Evolution continues with Renault’s proven 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 126kW and 226Nm to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Fuel consumption is rated at 8.1L/100km. Notably, it can run on regular 91-octane unleaded petrol—a practical cost-saving benefit in contrast to rivals requiring premium fuel.
Equipment and features
Though positioned as the new base model, the Evolution is equipped with an impressive feature list, borrowing much from the higher-spec Intens variant. Standard inclusions:
- LED headlights
- 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Satellite navigation
- Digital radio and 7.0-inch driver display
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Heated front seats with black leather trim
- Dual-zone climate control
- Rear privacy glass
- 18-inch alloy wheels
It loses some premium features found in the Intens—such as a sunroof, cooled front seats, and nappa leather—but gains a 12V socket in the rear seat area.
Platform and ageing underpinnings
While the 2025 Koleos brings updated value to the showroom, it remains one of the oldest offerings in its class. The second-generation Koleos first launched in Australia in 2016 and continues to share underpinnings with the previous-generation Nissan X-Trail, which has since been overhauled.
Final thoughts
Renault’s aggressive pricing of the 2025 Koleos Evolution signals a clear intent to reassert itself in Australia’s crowded mid-size SUV segment. While its underpinnings may show age, the package remains attractive for budget-conscious buyers prioritising value, equipment, and lower fuel costs over cutting-edge design or tech.
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