Renault reveals Koleos 4x4

Renault has released details of its first 4x4, the Koleos, which will go on sale in the UK in July.

The car has been developed in conjunction with Nissan, and shares technical details, such as the rear suspension, with the X-Trail.

It will go on sale with a choice of three engines: 147bhp and 172bhp 2.0-litre diesels and a 167bhp 2.5-litre petrol. No emissions figures have been released.

It will be sold in the UK with a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or automatic CVT transmission.

Renault says it has paid particular attention to ensuring the Koleos handles well on- and off-road, and it has fitted an altimeter and barometer to underline the car's all-terrain credentials.

The four-wheel-drive system is designed to put power through the front wheels only until the car detects wheelspin, when it automatically switches to all-wheel drive.

A two-wheel drive-only version of the car will also be available for buyers who dont want to take their car off-road.

Hill Start Assist is automatically activated on gradients of more than 10%, while Hill Descent Control holds the car at a maximum of 5mph going downhill.

Standard features include a split-opening tailgate to ease access, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors keyless entry and engine starting, a tyre pressure monitor and cruise control.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and stability control.

Renault will release further details on the Koleos at the Geneva motor show in March.

Although no official prices have been released, speculation suggests they will start from a Toyota RAV4-rivalling 19,000.