Renault Kadjar Facelift Getting Ready for Paris Debut, New 1.3L Engines

Renault manual gearboxes aren't going to suddenly stop being crap, but the interior of the Kadjar should feel better screwed together. This vehicle is all about offering the maximum amount of space for the money.

Part of that equation is doing without big and over-complicated 2-liter diesel engines. The 1.5 and 1.6 dCi work just fine here, though you could save even more with the new gasoline turbo unit.

We're talking about the 1.3-liter developed with Daimler, which could be offered in up to three stages of tune, the most powerful of which will boast 160 horsepower. The small unit will replace the 1.2-liter while giving the Kadjar a competitive edge over the slightly cheaper Dacia Duster.

The base 1.5-liter diesel will be updated to 115 HP while staying clean through the addition of AdBlue. The rumors in France say the 1.6-liter dCi will be discontinued in 2019 due to slow sales. Its place will be taken by a new, more powerful 1.7-liter, which will arrive in about a year and pack as much as 150 HP, matching the VW Group's 2.0 TDI.

Of course, cosmetic changes are also on their way, as previewed in this spy video, shot in Mercedes' hometown of Stuttgart. A new bumper, reshaped grille, and lights will freshen up this crossover. Despite the camo covering it, we believe the rear will stay largely the same.

Of course, the interior will also receive revisions, such as new seat upholstery and a better infotainment screen. We look forward to seeing the Kadjar facelift next month at the Paris Motor Show, where it will likely be joined by the all-new Clio.