Renault Kangoo Tenerife Driving Review

When people think of driving in Tenerife, they usually picture a sleek convertible or a compact hatchback zipping along the coast. However, practical needs often dictate a different choice. We wanted to see what it is actually like to navigate this diverse island in something built primarily for utility. We picked up the keys to a Renault Kangoo and set out to explore the varied terrain of Tenerife, from the busy southern resorts to the dramatic volcanic peaks.

This is not a vehicle you choose for setting lap times or turning heads at the beach. It is a functional tool. But a vehicle’s character often reveals itself in unexpected ways when subjected to the demanding topography of the Canary Islands. We spent several days driving the Kangoo across a mix of motorways, ancient forest routes, and dizzying mountain passes to bring you this honest assessment of its capabilities on the road.

How it drives on Tenerife roads

Our journey began on the TF-1 motorway, which sweeps along the arid southern coast. This road is characterized by long, fast curves and crosswinds sweeping in from the Atlantic Ocean. The Kangoo handles this environment reasonably well. The upright stance means you do feel the gusts of wind more than you would in a low-slung sedan, requiring a firmer grip on the steering wheel near El Medano. However, the suspension is remarkably compliant. It absorbs the expansion joints and occasional rough patches of tarmac with ease. Cruising at 110 km/h is comfortable, though wind noise around the large side mirrors becomes noticeable as you approach the speed limit.

Turning away from the coast, we pointed the nose of the Kangoo up the TF-21 towards Mount Teide. This is where the driving dynamics completely change. The road climbs relentlessly from sea level to over 2,100 metres. As the air thins and the temperature drops, the engine has to work significantly harder. You have to be proactive with the gearbox to keep the momentum going. Leaving it in a high gear will quickly result in a loss of speed on the steeper inclines before Vilaflor. You need to read the road ahead and shift down early. The steering is light, which makes the constant cornering physically easy, but it lacks the tactile feedback that gives you confidence in sharper bends.

The real test of nerves came on the TF-436 descending into Masca. This road is famous for its extremely narrow cliff hairpins and steep gradients. Small cars usually have a distinct advantage here. While the Kangoo is relatively compact in length, its width and boxy shape make passing oncoming coaches a breath-holding exercise. The saving grace here is the superb visibility. The large windscreen and high seating position allow you to place the front wheels precisely on the edge of the asphalt. The brakes performed admirably on the long descent, showing no signs of fade despite the heavy reliance on them through the steepest sections.

Finally, we took the Kangoo up to the Anaga forest roads in the north. These roads are frequently damp, twisty, and often cloaked in a thick mist. The conditions here demand a smooth driving style. The front-wheel-drive layout provides adequate traction on the wet leaves, but the high center of gravity means you feel the body lean if you carry too much speed into a corner. It forces you to adopt a relaxed pace, which perfectly suits the mystical atmosphere of the laurel forests.

Where this car shines (and where it does not)

The greatest strength of the Renault Kangoo is its sheer practicality. The cabin feels incredibly airy. Headroom is cavernous, and the large windows eliminate blind spots, making it a highly relaxing environment for the driver. The suspension is tuned for load-carrying, meaning that when the rear is weighed down with gear, the ride actually becomes smoother and more settled. It is a vehicle that asks very little of its driver in terms of effort, making it ideal for long days exploring the island.

However, we must be honest about its drawbacks. The most obvious limitation is the engine performance on steep hills. When tackling the gradients of the TF-21, you will find yourself frequently dropping into second gear and revving the engine just to maintain a steady pace. It is not a fast car, and overtaking on single-carriageway mountain roads requires a very long, clear stretch of tarmac. Furthermore, the handling is tuned purely for comfort. There is pronounced body roll in corners, and the seats lack the lateral support needed to hold you in place when navigating the endless switchbacks of the Teno Rural Park.

Practical notes

Navigating the bustling resort streets in Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, and Playa de las Americas presents its own set of challenges. Parking is notoriously tight. Fortunately, the Kangoo’s squared-off rear end makes parallel parking surprisingly intuitive, as you know exactly where the vehicle ends. You will spend a lot of time looking for blue-line meters in these areas. The Kangoo fits into standard spaces perfectly, and the sliding side doors (if equipped on your specific model) are a massive help when parked closely next to other vehicles.

Fuel economy was highly respectable, even with our demanding test route. We averaged around 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres, which is impressive given the amount of low-gear hill climbing we undertook. Luggage capacity is, unsurprisingly, the main reason to choose this vehicle. We tested the manual 1.3 L with two seats, and the rear cargo area is massive. It easily swallows surfboards, hiking gear, multiple large suitcases, and anything else you might need for an extended active holiday. It is perfectly suited for a couple who prioritizes carrying capacity over sporty aesthetics.

Verdict

Driving the Renault Kangoo in Tenerife is an exercise in adjusting your expectations. If you approach it looking for driving thrills, you will be disappointed. But if you judge it by what it is designed to do, it is a remarkably competent companion. It handles the fast sweepers of the TF-1 with quiet composure and tackles the intimidating hairpins of Masca with excellent visibility and predictable road manners. The engine requires a deliberate driving style on the steep climbs to Mount Teide, but the reward is a vehicle that can carry all your equipment with zero fuss.

It is the ideal vehicle for active travelers, photographers hauling heavy gear, or anyone who simply wants a stress-free, practical way to navigate the diverse environments of Tenerife. The Kangoo may not be the most glamorous car on the island, but it is undoubtedly one of the most useful.

Where to book the Renault Kangoo in Tenerife

If this one sounds like your kind of drive, you can check dates and prices for the Renault Kangoo hire in Tenerife directly. Prefer to compare first? Browse all Renault rentals in Tenerife, economy car hire in Tenerife, car hire in Tenerife.