Crossover is a word very much in vogue with car manufacturers these days, and it’s easy to see why. Instead of appealing to just one of the traditional market segments like sedan, hatchback, MPV or SUV, a crossover has the potential to attract buyers across the spectrum.

Enter the Renault Koleos, a French blend of supposed MPV practicality, 4x4 capability and car-like handling.

So what exactly has Renault dished up for us? Is it a frog whizzed in a blender or a delightful mix of flavours that combine well to tempt the adventurous?

WARTS AND ALL

At first glance the Koleos does have a slightly amphibious look to it. Maybe it’s because it has to be capable in two environments, both on tar and wading through mud pools off-road. The 27 degree approach and 31 degree departure angle (good for rock climbing) does mean it has a somewhat rounded wedge profile.

In fact there are very few sharp angles on this car, with some members of our team labelling the curved and smooth surfaced Koleos the ‘kind of 4x4 girls would like’. Now if a box-shaped bakkie is your idea of an attractive off-roader, the Koleos will remain a toad in search of a kiss from a princess.

Others, me included, quite like the distinctive French styling which charts its own unique course.

DOWN THE GULLET

The French, especially Renault, are masters of the functional use of interior space, and their new 4x4 is no exception. There’s a multitude of clever storage spaces which include underfloor bins in the back, cubby holes and spacious door pockets. It adds up to 70 litres of stowage, which increases by another 450 litres once you open the boot. Fold the back seats flat and it grows to 1380 litres.