Much like the crowded C-segment, manufacturers are now offering a number of model variants with their vans.

Cue Renault’s Kangoo and its shorter wheelbase companion, Kangoo Compact.

The completely redessigned Kangoo is based on the Scenic platform.

Prices won’t be announced until July and specification details are being kept under wraps too. UK customers will be able to choose from three trim levels.

Renault is focusing the Compact on city centre businesses such as florists, while the standard version will be aimed at tradesmen.

The Kangoo has 3.0 cubic metres of cargo space, up from 2.75 cu m in the old model.

This rises to 3.5 cu m when a special fold down passenger seat is specified.

There is enough width to carry a Europallet.

The Compact has the same width and height as the longer wheelbase version and even though load volume is reduced to 2.5 cu m, it can still accommodate a Europallet.

Inside the cabin, which is covered with durable plastics reflecting the practical uses it’s intended for, both Kangoos are identical.

Only the 85bhp diesel engines were available to drive on the European launch. The Kangoo handles with minimal amounts of bodyroll, even with a full load.

The Compact feels a lot floatier on the open roads, but comes into its own when faced with tight turns in the city centre.

Specification

Price: £9,500-£10,000+VAT (est)
Engine: 1.5 dCi 68, 86, 106bhp diesel; 1.6 86, 106bhp petrol
Transmission: 5-sp man
Efficiency: 34.4-54.3mpg; 140g/km CO2
CAP RV: TBA
Rivals: Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Fiat Fiorino