Renault India has launched a 1-litre variant of their bread and butter model, the Kwid, at a price of Rs. 3.83 lakh for the RXT variant. The RXT (O) variant is priced at Rs 3.96 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The price gap between the 0.8-litre and 1-litre variants is just Rs 22,000.
Showcased earlier at the Auto Expo 2016, the much awaited 999cc engine has been plonked under the hood of the SUV-ish hatch, finally. The new engine makes 67bhp and 91Nm of torque and has the best in class power-to-weight ratio of 95.6bhp/tonne. Although, the weight has gone up by 39kg, the additional 14 horses and 19Nm of torque do make a difference in the power delivery. The fuel efficiency is rated at 23.01kmpl (ARAI claimed). Interiors have not been tinkered with and also on the outside, the only differentiating factors between the 0.8-litre and the 1.0-litre variants are the ‘1.0’ decals and silver-finished ORVMs.
Available only with the top-of-the-line RXT and RXT(O) variants, the Kwid is already loaded with features for a car of its class. It gets a 7-inch touchscreen based infotainment system with navigation, keyless entry, digital instrument cluster and a rear spoiler, to add to the sporty stance. It also has class-leading ground clearance of 180mm. In terms of safety features, it comes with Pro-sense front seat belts and driver side airbag. Renault has given the driver side airbag a miss and even ABS is not on offer yet.
The Kwid has changed Renault India’s fortunes since its launch and has been a revolutionary car in its class with ample space, decent driving dynamics and a long list of features. The 1.0-litre variant has been launched with the festive period close on the heels, so expect the Kwid to do even better numbers in the coming future. For more details, read our review here.