Renault has targeted the budget car market with the crossover-flavouredKwidhatchback. Here are the specificationand pricing details for this keenly priced new model.

The Kwid comesto market as the entry point to Renault’s comprehensive product range and will be available in 2trim levels. Both derivatives are powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol motor with peak outputs of 50 kW and 91 Nm. Although not aparticularly powerful engine, it’s claimed to be quite frugal… Renault SA claims that its newcomer will consume an average of 4.71 litres/100 km from its 28-litre fuel tank.

Power reaches the front wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox. While it’s not marketed as an offroad vehicle, the Kwid's ground clearance of 180 mm should be a boon when traversing dirt roads, for example.

In terms of dimensions, the Renault's wheelbase measures 2 422 mm, which means that this compact newcomer offers reasonable interior space, while the claimed luggage capacity is a credible 300 litres.

Features

Despite the Renault Kwid being an entry-level vehicle, the features/equipment list looks substantial. The Dynamique is the more comprehensive of the pair and it features the MediaNav navigation/multimedia system replete with a7-inch touchscreen display, radio with Bluetoothconnectivity.

There are height-adjustable seats at the front, with power steering and one-touch lane changing indicators. Electric front windows and air conditioning, as well as plenty of oddment storage spaces are afforded.

The Expression model lacks metallic paint (but it’s an option), front fog lamps, some exterior finishings as well as the dual-tone dashboard. It also loses out on the fancy navigation/infotainment system, but retains the USB/Aux inputs.

The Kwid shares itsplatform with the Datsun Go, but on paper at least, looks to be the more premium of the two vehicles.

In terms of safety, it features just the single airbag for the driver. We were expecting ABS at the very least, but we’ll have more clarity on the important issue of safety once we’ve driven the car and spoken to Renault SA.

Pricing and after-sales support

The new Renault Kwid comes standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km intervals. Optional service plans are available.

1.0 Expression 1.0-litre SCe R 119 900

1.0 Dynamique 1.0-litre SCe R 129 900

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