Renault Kwid: Kitna Deti Hai? A Budget-Friendly Hatchback Under 5 Lakh
Are you in the market for an affordable hatchback that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the Renault Kwid.
This compact car has been turning heads since its launch, offering a unique blend of style, features, and value. But how does it stack up against competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Alto and Hyundai Santro? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Renault Kwid a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
Design and Exterior
The Renault Kwid stands out from the crowd with its SUV-inspired design. Its bold front grille, muscular body lines, and high ground clearance give it a commanding presence on the road. But does this compact car’s looks match its performance?
One of the Kwid’s most striking features is its impressive ground clearance of 184mm. This makes it well-suited for navigating rough Indian roads and speed bumps with ease. The car’s compact dimensions (3,731mm length, 1,579mm width, and 1,474mm height) make it perfect for city driving and tight parking spots.
The Kwid’s exterior also boasts some premium touches, such as:
- Stylish headlamps with LED DRLs
- Sporty alloy wheels (on higher variants)
- Body-colored bumpers and ORVMs
- Roof rails for added visual appeal
These design elements contribute to the Kwid’s modern and youthful appearance, setting it apart from other entry-level hatchbacks in the market.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the Renault Kwid, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness and features on offer. The cabin is well-designed, with a focus on maximizing space and comfort for both driver and passengers.
The Kwid’s interior highlights include:
- A digital instrument cluster for easy readability
- An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (on higher variants)
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
- Comfortable seating with decent legroom and headroom
- Ample storage spaces and cubby holes
One standout feature is the Kwid’s best-in-class boot space of 279 liters. This generous cargo capacity makes it practical for small families and weekend getaways. The rear seats can also be folded to accommodate larger items when needed.
However, it’s worth noting that some cost-cutting measures are evident in the interior materials. While the overall quality is acceptable for its price point, don’t expect premium soft-touch surfaces or high-end finishes.
Engine Performance and Efficiency
The Renault Kwid offers two petrol engine options to cater to different driving needs and preferences. Let’s break down the performance specs:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission | Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.8-liter | 54 PS | 72 Nm | 5-speed manual | 21.7 kmpl |
| 1.0-liter | 68 PS | 91 Nm | 5-speed manual or AMT | 21.7 kmpl (MT) / 22 kmpl (AMT) |
The 1.0-liter engine is the more popular choice, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. It provides peppy performance in city traffic and can hold its own on highways. The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) option is a boon for those who prefer a clutch-free driving experience in congested urban areas.
Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for the Renault Kwid. With ARAI-claimed figures of up to 22 kmpl, it’s one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment. Real-world mileage may vary, but many users report getting between 17-20 kmpl in mixed driving conditions.
Ride and Handling
How does the Renault Kwid perform on Indian roads? The car’s suspension setup is tuned to handle rough patches and potholes with ease. The high ground clearance adds to its ability to tackle uneven surfaces without scraping the underbody.
In city driving, the Kwid shines with its light steering and compact dimensions. Maneuvering through tight spaces and parking in cramped spots is a breeze. However, at higher speeds, some drivers might find the steering a bit too light for their liking.
The Kwid’s handling is decent for its class, but don’t expect sports car-like cornering abilities. There’s some body roll when taking sharp turns, which is typical for tall hatchbacks. Overall, the ride quality is comfortable for daily commutes and occasional highway trips.
Safety Features
Safety is an increasingly important consideration for car buyers, and the Renault Kwid has made strides in this area. The latest models come equipped with:
- Dual front airbags (standard across all variants)
- ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Rear parking sensors
- Seat belt reminders for front occupants
- Speed sensing auto door lock
- Impact sensing door unlock
Higher variants also offer additional features like a rear parking camera and front fog lamps. While these improvements are welcome, it’s worth noting that the Kwid’s safety ratings in Global NCAP tests have been modest. If safety is your top priority, you might want to consider other options in the segment.
Pricing and Variants
One of the Renault Kwid’s biggest selling points is its competitive pricing. The car is available in multiple variants to suit different budgets and requirements. Here’s a quick overview of the Kwid’s variant lineup and their ex-showroom prices (Delhi):
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RXE | 0.8L | Manual | ₹4.70 Lakh |
| RXL | 0.8L | Manual | ₹5.00 Lakh |
| RXT | 1.0L | Manual | ₹5.50 Lakh |
| CLIMBER | 1.0L | Manual | ₹5.88 Lakh |
| RXT AMT | 1.0L | AMT | ₹5.95 Lakh |
| CLIMBER AMT | 1.0L | AMT | ₹6.33 Lakh |
The mid-range variants offer the best value for money, balancing features and affordability. The top-end CLIMBER variants come with additional styling elements and features for those who want a more premium experience.
Maintenance and After-Sales Service
Owning a car involves more than just the purchase price. How does the Renault Kwid fare in terms of maintenance costs and after-sales service?
The good news is that the Kwid is relatively inexpensive to maintain. Its simple mechanicals and widespread availability of spare parts keep service costs low. Renault offers a standard warranty of 2 years or 50,000 km, whichever comes first, which can be extended for additional peace of mind.
However, Renault’s service network is not as extensive as some of its competitors like Maruti Suzuki. Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to check the availability of authorized service centers in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the mileage of Renault Kwid?
The ARAI-certified mileage of the Renault Kwid ranges from 21.7 kmpl for the manual transmission variants to 22 kmpl for the AMT versions. Real-world fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and style.
Q2. Is Renault Kwid good for long drives?
While the Renault Kwid is primarily designed for city use, it can handle occasional long drives. The 1.0-liter engine provides adequate power for highway cruising, but comfort levels may decrease on extended journeys due to its compact size.
Q3. What is the ground clearance of Renault Kwid?
The Renault Kwid boasts an impressive ground clearance of 184mm, which is one of the highest in its segment. This makes it well-suited for tackling rough roads and speed bumps with ease.
Q4. How many airbags does Renault Kwid have?
The latest models of the Renault Kwid come standard with dual front airbags across all variants, enhancing occupant safety in the event of a collision.
Q5. What is the boot space of Renault Kwid?
The Renault Kwid offers a best-in-class boot space of 279 liters, which is impressive for a car in this segment. This generous cargo capacity makes it practical for small families and weekend getaways.
Wrapping Up
The Renault Kwid presents an attractive package for budget-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and feature-packed hatchback. Its SUV-inspired design, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engines make it a compelling choice in the entry-level segment. While it may not excel in every area, the Kwid offers good value for money and stands out from its competitors with its unique styling and features. If you’re in the market for an affordable first car or a compact city runabout, the Renault Kwid is definitely worth considering.
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