The Renault Express Van emerges as a commendable successor to the much-appreciated Dacia Dokker, especially appealing to small and large businesses seeking a practical utility vehicle without a hefty price tag. With its release, Renault strategically splits its offerings into two segments with-in the small van category. The Express, specifically tailored for commercial use, contrasts with the more luxurious Kangoo, which competes in Europe with the likes of VW Caddy and models from Stellantis.
T&FME was handed the keys to its test subject the day before the major rains that closed up much of Dubai in April. This effectively curtailed an extended trip in terms of mileage but it did mean that we got to test in real site conditions. But more on that later.
At first glance, the Express aligns seamlessly with Renault’s current design language, sporting a new grille that reflects the brand’s current aesthetics, albeit with a focus on simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The van features grey bumpers and mirrors, a choice likely influenced by its utilitarian market segment.
Internally, the van impresses with a modern, ergonomically sound dashboard made of durable hard plastic, offering ample storage solutions including a lockable compartment and a designated slot for a mobile phone to serve as navigation. However, the cabin space, particularly for the passenger, feels a bit cramped, especially when attempting to recline the seat, due to the obstructive metal partition.
The wide-angle mirror located in the passenger’s sun visor is said to expand your right-hand lateral field of vision, providing greater comfort and safety. While it is supposed to let you see anything that may be hidden behind the panelled partition, the field of vision is much more restrictive than you would wish for.
Cargo-wise, the Express offers a single length variant, providing a respectable 3.3 cubic meters of space, accessible via an asymmetrically divided wing door and a sliding side door, making daily operations convenient. The base cargo area comes bare, with potential space for enhancements like wooden cladding and side protection. In total, you can expect to stow 750kg of cargo all accessible via the sliding side door or the two rear doors.
The 1.6l engine on the vehicle tested rates at 110hp and features a multipoint injection system. As ever, fuel efficiency may depend on the driver’s capability to get the most out of the manual transmission. A major plus is the Express’ quiet operation, dynamic performance, and impressive fuel economy, maintaining efficiency even under load. Precisely what you want from a cargo carrier.
And it has a tonne of features too with driver and passenger air bags, ABS and ESP, Emergency Brake Assist, remote locking, and reassuringly effective AC.
From a price perspective, the Renault Express is competitively tagged, at AED 59,900, and the van’s price and customisation options make it a viable choice for those looking to tailor the vehicle to specific needs.
It is worth noting that the virtue of mini van driving is that you get an experience akin to driving an estate car, albeit when it’s not fully laden. Plus, you are getting great fuel efficiency. Taking the vehicle out into the aftermath of the flooding that hit Dubai, the van really came into its own driving impeccably in the wet conditions. It ably powered over areas where sand had collected proving that it could be a worthy addition to most sites in the UAE.
Verdict
The Renault Express Van stands out as a simple, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing option for businesses and individuals seeking a functional small van. Its competitive pricing and practical features likely ensure its popularity, especially among those who valued the earlier Dacia Dokker for similar reasons.
