- Kiger crossover updated for 2024
- Available in four new variants
The revamped version of the Renault Kiger gets cosmetic changes, additional features, and new variants. We recently drove the top-spec RXZ variant with a CVT gearbox and here are five positives and two negatives of the compact crossover's latest model.
Pros
1. Performance
This 99bhp-producing, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is quite peppy and offers great drivability. There is adequate power to keep going whether you want to move away from traffic or comfortably cruise along the highway. It gets three driving modes, namely Eco, Normal, and Sport, with the latter being the sharpest with throttle inputs. It also allows you to hold on to the revs for longer. Nevertheless, you have quick acceleration and won't feel nervous while overtaking big trucks and vehicles on the highway. And that's possible in the normal mode too as it offers a good mid-range pull even with part throttle inputs.
2. Proper automatic gearbox
This turbo petrol CVT offers clutch-less shifts and is only slightly lower on torque than the manual version. But it doesn't make much difference on the go and helps the car quickly progress. The peak torque here of 152Nm is delivered at 2,200rpm, which is lower than the 160Nm in the manual at a higher 2,800rpm. The turbo lag below 1,700rpm is masked well by this gearbox. And this is a proper upmarket gearbox, unlike the AMT or the iMT which induce a head nod. Here, with the CVT, there is linear progress, and with consistent pulling power, the CVT ensures a smooth driving experience. There wasn't a moment when the rubber-band effect of the CVT was imminent. Though this CVT doesn't get a Sport or manual mode, it receives an L (Low) mode to provide maximum torque. This is beneficial while climbing hills or steep inclines. It works flawlessly with the creep function and hill-hold control.
3. New features
Some technological advancements have been made with the top five being welcome goodbye sequence for the ORVMs, premium leatherette-fabric seats, leather-wrapped steering with red stitching, auto-dimming IRVM, and cruise control as standard on the turbo.
4. Safety
On the safety front, the Kiger has scored a four-star rating in the Global NCAP tests. This top-spec variant gets four airbags. These include front and side airbags and the car comes with seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors with a camera, impact sensing door unlock, speed-sensing door lock, and ISOFIX anchorage for the child seat.
5. Value-for-money
Its pricing is competitive for an SUV-like proposition, having big wheels, easy handling, good space, and a host of features. It has a wheelbase similar to that of the Hyundai Venue and the Maruti Brezza, which translates into good space inside. And mind you, these are proper compact SUVs from a segment higher. After all, the Kiger is easy to drive and live with, pliable with our road conditions, compact enough to suit an urban environment, and rides well. All of this at a competitive price only makes it quite easy to recommend as well.
Cons
Well, it's good that its positive traits continue and these new features add to the proposition for a prospective buyer. But there are two factors which we still think should improve.
1. Misses new-age features
It doesn't get a sunroof, 360 camera, or ventilated seats, which could have been a boon in this hot climate. Also, there's no ADAS, so anyone wanting these features will have to look elsewhere — the Kiger's rivals.
2. Renault aftersales support
Though the aftersales support is constantly improving, it's not on par with its rivals. The other brands have far better reach, expanded dealer network, and many more outlets than Renault.
