The French-born Kangoo assists people with their hobbies and lifestyle.
Vol.19 / Ryuichi Katsuyama (Freelance PR)

The “Grand Kangoo” cruises briskly from Tokyo to Chiba. Mr. Katsuyama, sitting in the driver’s seat, says, “I’ve loved vehicles ever since I was a kid.”

“My parents used to take me to auto shows all the time. Operating machinery and making it move—I guess I was drawn to that kind of thing; even as a child, I might have felt a sense of romance about it.”

Mr. Katsuyama, who has driven a variety of cars over the years since becoming an adult, adds, “I want to try out shapes and sizes I’ve never driven before.”

"And it just kept getting bigger and bigger (laughs). I really love camping, and I love driving, too, so it’s convenient to have a car like that when we all go somewhere together, isn’t it?"

Mr. Katsuyama says he still makes regular trips into nature. He also says that the “Grand Kangoo” is a perfect fit for his lifestyle.

"For someone like me who loves going camping with friends, the 'Grand Kangoo' is the ideal car. Isn't it great that you can freely arrange the space while balancing the number of passengers with the amount of luggage?"

Driving performance is also one of the “Grand Kangoo’s” key features. It delivers a smooth yet powerful ride.

"It responds really well when you step on the gas, too. Even with all this cargo on board, it doesn't feel heavy at all. It just feels like it moves so smoothly."

As the “Grand Kangoo” exits the highway and approaches its destination, a landscape of lush natural beauty unfolds before us—mountains, the ocean, and the city. The way the “Grand Kangoo” blends seamlessly into any setting is just one of its many charms. Mr. Katsuyama also gives it his seal of approval, saying, “It’s really cool, isn’t it?”

"Compared to the previous model, the front end has a sharper, more rugged look, doesn't it? That said, it doesn't have that garish, intimidating vibe you often see—it’s really just right. The overall design is simple and elegant, and I think one of its biggest appeals is its versatility—it looks natural on anyone who drives it."