Car Review: Renault Kwid
The new Renault Kwid was launched in Durban last week (3 November 2016) and we had the chance to experience all that Renault had to offer with this SUV-inspired hatch.
Introducing the all-new #RenaultKwid @Renault_SA pic.twitter.com/tDHfhFTUbm
— Women On Wheels (@WomenWheels) November 3, 2016
Aggressive pricing for the Kwid was key to noting that it is expected to make waves in its segment, while its funky and stylish design gives it that innovative and modern touch. Priced from just R119 900 you wouldn’t expect all the bells and whistles but as a new entry segment contender we suspect that the Kwid could soon become a popular city car.
It’s available in two variants: Expression and upper-level Dynamique.
I have a friend who’s in the market for a new city car and every now and then something comes up that I feel could be perfect for her budget and needs. It’s not always easy to find something that features all of her needs within her price bracket. While most of the cars that I thought were perfect for her were way out of her price range, the ones she could afford were “meh”, as she’d say. She’s a bit of a snob rather particular about what she wants, and that’s okay.
“I think I’ve found a car for you”
But finally, the Kwid offers everything she needs: style, affordability and all the comfort and space one would need for zipping in and around the city. In fact even if you were to use it for a holiday road trip up the coast, the boot space proves more than enough as it offers 300 litres while the vehicle seats up to five passengers comfortably.
As far as connectivity goes it offers quite a bit more than you’d expect from an entry-level vehicle: a 7″ (18cm) touchscreen display, radio and Bluetooth connectivity, USB connection as well as a MediaNav® navigation/multi-media system surrounded by a piano black centre console with chrome surround on the Dynamique variant.
On the outside the Kwid features SUV attempted styling with its high stance and longer wheelbase (2.422mm). To those who aren’t yet familiar with SUV-inspired hatchbacks it might take a while for your eye to fully appreciate the Kwid’s proportions. Let’s be honest: there’s something a bit odd-looking about hatchback-sized wheels supporting a hatchback that’s been heightened to look more like an SUV. But the Kwid manages to pull off its SUV styling and construction and once you’re more familiar with it all, you’ll enjoy its 180 mm ground clearance.
Peronally, I think it looks best in white to highlight the lower part of the bumper which comes with a black trim (another SUV feature) and the body-coloured tailgate spoiler adds to the car’s dynamic stance. The front grille design headlights feature Renault’s trademark diamond-shaped logo while its C-shaped headlights incorporate the brand’s new lighting signature.
OPTIMISED ENGINE EFFICIENCY
The compact 1.0- litre 3-cylinder Smart Control efficiency (SCe) engine powering both KWID models has been optimised for power and performance and pushes out peak power of 50kW @ 5 500 rpm and maximum torque of 91Nm @ 4 250 rpm.
Also read: The new Renault Mégane is here!
Drivers will enjoy its good responsiveness and drivability at low revs and wide torque band across the rpm range. An extremely fuel efficient petrol powered engine, it’s paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox and delivers an incredible 4.71 litres/100 km. The fuel tank holds 28 litres.
Key features include:
- One of the lightest engines in the 1 litre range with aluminium cylinder block and head. Optimized usage of composite materials for weight reduction.
- Low friction design: Features include steel forged crankshaft with optimized bearing dimensions.
- Stainless steel close coupled catalytic converter for quick warm-up and best emission / consumption balance.
- F1-inspired state-of-the-art technology: Double loop Lambda monitoring and electrical controlled throttle body for accurate air / fuel ratio monitoring; knock sensor for automatic spark advance adjustment to fuel quality.
- Optimized valve timing for increased volumetric efficiency in order to achieve a flatter torque band.
- One of best-in-class power-to-weight ratios.
RENAULT WARRANTY
As is the case across Renault’s entire product range, the new KWID Dynamique and Expression derivatives come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km intervals. Optional service plans are available.
RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICING
– NEW Renault KWID Expression 1.0-litre SCe R 119 900
– NEW Renault KWID Dynamique 1.0-litre SCe R 129 900
Source: Renault South Africa