Renault Kwid: In a market where value-for-money often means making compromises, the Renault Kwid has struck a chord once again, with its potent “Chota Packet Bada Dhamaka” positioning.
This little gem from the French carmaker has quickly become the affordable SUV to beat with its mix of outstanding value, clever inclusions and rock-solid SUV styling that brings entry-level car ownership tantalisingly within reach of a whole new generation of first-time buyers and families doing it tough.
Table of Contents
Renault Kwid Uncompromising Disruptive Design
The Renault Kwid, with its SUV inspired design and elements borrowed from higher segments, was an out-of-the-box product in the entry-level market.
The high stance, aggressive front grille and flared wheel arches make it look far larger and more expensive than it is.
This product philosophy caters to a basic pent-up need of the Indian consumer – to own a car that looks premium, but without it costing one.
With its intense color options such as Zanskar Blue, Fiery Red and Ice Cool White, the Kwid lets you flaunt your personality without burning a hole in your pocket! The added roof rails and neat LED DRLs help boost its crossover-look, and it’s an appealing package for young professionals and small families after a bit of style with good value attached.
Performance Designed for the City
Renault Kwid Options for under the hoodThe Kwid offers buyers two equally frugal and capable engine options – a 0.8-litre motor developing 54PS power and a peppier one liter engine which makes 68PS.
Both the engines are so well optimized for power and efficiency, it’s like they’ve been fine-tuned for ages by local wizards who know exactly what their clientele looks at when counting the rupees that go into running it.
The Kwid is exceedingly poised in rush hour and when slotting into small parking spots thanks to its light steering and small turning circle.
Par with many compact SUVs, the ground clearance of 184mm takes on urban infrastructure with ease, shielding the underbody from the threats of speed breakers and uneven road surfaces common in Indian streets.
Compact Yet Spacious Interiors for Great Space Utilization and Comfort
Renault Kwid Get inside the Kwid, and the bada dhamaka part of its narrative smacks you in the face rather instantly.
Room can be tight, but a smart use of space makes the cabin surprisingly spacious feeling.
Ergonomically-shaped seats support on longer trips, while the 279-liter boot – best in class for the segment in which the Urban Cruiser competes – ensures storage space for the luggage of a small family on weekend retreats.
There are plenty of storage solutions in the cabin with various cubbyholes, bottle holders and a glovebox for anything else you need to carry on a daily basis.
The two-tone dashboard with piano black inserts adds visual value beyond the price point.
Tech That Makes Your Life Easier
Kwid’s tech package is maybe the most impressive part of its value proposition. It is at the heart of an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a characteristic usually seen in cars that cost a great deal more.
This thing even has GPS and Bluetooth and a camera looking behind you that makes getting into parking spaces back home a Godsend instead of a nightmare.
Fully digital instrument panel presents information in an easily comprehensible way at a glance, and steering-mounted controls help in having the audio and phone controls at your fingertips without having to take your hand off the steering.
It’s the kind of detail through and through that makes the driving experience of an entry-level choice decidedly upmarket.
Security Basics for Your Peace of Mind
Realising that cost cutting should not come at the cost of safety, Renault has not left the Kwid lacking in basic safety equipment.
Twin front air bags, ABS with EBD, and seat belt reminders are standard, focusing on safety without driving the cost too high for its audience.
The enhanced structure of the body makes substantial use of high-strength steel to aid crash protection and features in rear parking sensors to help avoid low-speed parking impacts – a feature that will no doubt be welcomed by many first time drivers.
Total cost consideration within the Ownership Experience
The Kwid is not all about the purchase price, but the cost of ownership as well. Its superlative mileage (about 22 based on the 0.8L type) have a direct implication on the monthly financials, not to forget an increasingly widespread service network from Renault which can nullify concerns of connectivity for service.
The manufacturer’s inclusive warranty system gives buyers that added peace of mind associated with what is likely the second biggest purchase they’ll ever make.
Engineering decisions that lengthen service intervals and reduce labor are used to minimize projective maintenance costs.
Cultural Impact Other than transportation
Kwid has risen above just being a means of transport to being a symbol of freedom and aspire in the Indian automotive landscape.
It’s that idea that any consumer should have access to premium capabilities, that entry-level should not mean entry-grade.
For some families, it marks the first entry into a car, which is a major step in their financial lives.
Its capability to offer practical sense as well as emotional desire in its segment at this pricing level has created fans for life and these are die hard supporter of what it stands for.
Renault Kwid Conclusion
Renault Kwid illustrates its “Chota Packet Bada Dhamaka” positioning perfectly by offering clever design with stylish touches, uncompromised features and superior technology, complemented with economical and innovative features that are more than just standard at its strong pricing.
This learnings has helped Renault build a product which isn’t just sacrificing to achieve low-cost, but intends smart to maximise and serve where it really counts for a budget inflicted buyer.
In a segment where every rupee matters, the Kwid remains the symbol of how thoughtful engineering design can make a small car the big of impact on the lives of all its owners.
