Lee Min-hyung joined The Korea Times in 2014 and has worked as a journalist mainly in Korea’s finance, tech and automotive industry. He specializes in content creation, breaking news and in-depth analysis currently on transportation and mobility. You can reach him via mhlee@koreatimes.co.kr.
Renault Korea’s Grand Koleos regains spotlight amid high fuel prices
Renault Korea's Grand Koleos SUVs / Courtesy of Renault Korea
By Lee Min-hyung
Renault Korea’s Grand Koleos hybrid SUV is drawing renewed attention from consumers, as rising global oil prices drive demand for fuel-efficient vehicles.
Escalating tensions in the Middle East have recently led to a surge in fuel costs, prompting more consumers to turn to hybrid models. Against this backdrop, the French carmaker’s flagship SUV emerges as a practical option for families seeking both efficiency and reliability.
Built on Renault’s hybrid E-Tech system, the vehicle delivers what the company describes as best-in-class fuel efficiency.
The midsize SUV offers a certified fuel efficiency of 15.8 kilometers per liter, while its hybrid system allows for up to 75 percent of city driving to be conducted in electric mode, significantly enhancing real-world efficiency, according to the carmaker.
The model is powered by a dual motor system combining a 100-kilowatt traction motor and a 60-kilowatt high-voltage starter generator, paired with a 1.64-kilowatt-hour battery — the largest in its class. This setup produces a combined system output of 245 horsepower, offering both strong performance and efficiency.
Renault Korea's Grand Koleos SUV / Courtesy of Renault Korea
The SUV also emphasizes driving refinement and stability. Its multi-mode automatic transmission integrates a three-speed gearbox with the dual motor system, enabling smooth and responsive gear shifts.
The transmission is specifically optimized for hybrid powertrains, reducing noise, vibration and harshness during gear changes to provide a more seamless driving experience, according to Renault Korea.
Safety is another key strength of the Grand Koleos SUV, reinforcing its appeal as a family vehicle. The SUV comes equipped with up to 31 advanced driver assistance systems and convenience features.
The vehicle’s Active Driver Assist system enables Level 2 autonomous driving, combining adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance and an automated lane change function, Renault Korea said.
Structurally, the vehicle is built on the Compact Modular Architecture platform, known for its high safety standards. The body incorporates hot press forming components at a segment-leading ratio of 18 percent, alongside high-strength materials such as giga steel and advanced high-strength steel.
These materials improve both crash safety and weight reduction. The model’s safety credentials were recognized with a top rating in the 2024 Korea New Car Assessment Program.
Over the past two years, the vehicle has steadily gained traction among consumers, supported by its strong fuel efficiency and robust safety features.
As fuel prices remain elevated, the hybrid SUV is solidifying its position as a dependable family car in the Korean market.
“Strong fuel efficiency and reliable in-vehicle safety make the Grand Koleos flagship SUV one of the most reasonable options as a family vehicle amid high oil prices,” an official from the carmaker said.