Motormouth: I almost became a van man with a sense of humour because of this LCV

The original Renault Kangoo light commercial vehicle was likeable and memorable.

Two decades ago, the French van was a great choice for cheap-and-“goods” indie drivers in Singapore who could stretch their shoestring budget to $40,000 for a new LCV (light commercial vehicle).

At the time, the Kangoo was the market leader in Singapore’s small-van segment. It was a blue-collar worker with style on its side, hardworking utility and a surprising set of interior amenities. 

Even though the Kangoo’s payload was smaller than that of rivals such as Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Opel Combo and Volkswagen Caddy, it was the most good-looking goods van of them all. 

Its bonus feature was a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 4-speed automatic transmission. Smoother and cleaner than any little diesel van, but with worse mileage and the same incessant beeping from the 70km/h speed warning device. 

Most importantly, whether rushing a delivery or rushing for an appointment, the Kangoo played along. 

The design was playful yet useful. Upgrades included a refreshed radiator grille, clear instead of coloured indicator lenses, more extensive dashboard colour-coding, and individual door locking, plus the addition of a centre armrest and an under-seat drawer. 

The Kangoo even had dual airbags, pre-tensioner seatbelts, side impact bars and anti-lock brakes. 

Not only would I not die of embarrassment driving this van, but I would also probably not die in it if we crashed. By the way, I could almost live in it.

The cargo hold was roomy, with the fixed side windows and opening rear roof flap making it quite airy too, while the modular tailgate and multi-purpose cabin could help with my mobile housekeeping.

I thought of installing a roof rack, bicycle brackets, PVC leather seats and a French bean bag to create my own Kangoo kombi. It could have been a caravan of love for this unloved van man.

The columnist didn't hit the road or the loading bay with a cheap-and-hip van.

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