Renault is set to launch the new Kwid hatchback on September 24. The all-new small car from Renault will be positioned in the entry-level segment of the Indian market to take on the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 and the Hyundai Eon.
Based on the new CMF-A platform, the hatchback uses styling of a compact crossover to lure the Indian buyers. The Kwid is built in India for the developing markets and looks like a premium model with flared wheel arches and black body cladding. The black elements like the front grille and ORVMs are part of the cost saving measures, but they create a nice dual-tone effect, giving the car a rugged look.
The black coloured interior is spacious and the boot at 300 litres is the biggest in the segment. The Renault Kwid is the first car in the segment to get a touch-screen music system with navigation. Although we are not happy about the fact that there are hardly any safety features, only the top-end variant gets a driver-side airbag as an option.
The Kwid is powered by an 800cc engine producing 53bhp and 72Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox powering the front wheels. The ARAI efficiency of the hatchback is 25.1kmpl. Renault will be offering the compact car in five variants in the price range of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 4 lakh.