Having sold more than 2 500 units of its Indian-made 7-seater small crossover model since it was introduced in the South African market early in 2020, Renault has consolidated itsTriber range by adding a new top-of-the-range derivative fitted with a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

To recap, the Triberis based on a modified version of the CMF-A platform, which underpins the popular Kwid hatchback and competes against rivals such as the Suzuki Ertiga, Honda BR-V and Toyota Avanza.Standing less than 4-metres in length, the Triber is surprisinglyspacious and shares some design cues with the familiar Captur and Kadjar, including the clamshell bonnet and LED daytime running lights.We understand that the model was specifically tailored forRenault’s customers in the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa).

ICYMI:Renault Triber 1.0 Prestige (2020) Review

The option of 7 seats adds practicality, but a 5-seat configuration is easily achieved by simply removing the third row.

In terms of practicality, the Triber comes with roof rails capable of holding a 50-kg load, while ground clearance is a claimed 182 mm, which is useful for kerb hopping or traversingthe odd rural road.

Inside, the Triber features adual-tone interior and dashboard, the latter with chrome-look trim, an LED instrument cluster and 3 rows of seats, of which the rearmost are removable– to either prioritise passenger portability or luggage space. Renault claims that there are 100 seating configurations in the Triber and, with the 3rd row of seating removed, the stated luggage capacity is 625 litres.

Better specced that you might expect

To ensure the requisite occupant comfort, the Triber has a dedicated air-conditioning matrix that additionally pipes air to the 2nd and 3rd-rowsand, in Dynamique and Prestige derivatives, infotainment is provided by an 8.0-inch touchscreen system, which is compatible with either Apple or Android smartphones,offers navigation and supports Apple CarPlay as well asAndroid Auto.

Compared with the entry-level Expression derivative, Dynamique versions featurefront seatback pockets, a seat drawer under the driver's seat, a cooled lower glove box,an upper glove box,a 12V socketand electric windows for the 2nd row, as well asrear speakers. The top of the range Prestige, which is now also available in automatic guise, additionally features, inter alia, keyless entry with push-button start/stop, a pair of tweeters, a 12V socket for the 3rd rowand a reverse-view camera with guidelines.

A simple, yet stylish interior design should find favour with buyers.

Renault’s proven 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine, which produces 52 kW and 96 Nm of torque is paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or, in the case of the 1.0 Prestige, the 5-speed AMT. According to the French firm's local subsidiary, the claimed fuel economy of the Triber is 5.5 L/100 km irrespective of which of the 2 transmissions it uses.

Safety-wise, Renault has equipped the Triber with remote central locking, ABS and EBD, dualfront airbags and rear parking sensors. Prestige derivatives additionally feature 2 front side airbags.

Renault Triber – Price in South Africa

In terms of after-sales service, the Triber comes with a 2-year/30 000 km service plan anda 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty. Services take place at 15 000 km intervals.

New Renault Triber Specs & Prices in South Africa

We've driven the Toyota Rush, similar in many ways to this Triber

Further Reading

Renault Kwid (2019) Specs & Price

Renault K-ZE Concept Previews Electric Kwid

Renault Kwid 1.0 Dynamique Auto (2018) Quick Review

Datsun Go (2018) Launch Review