Renault KWID – Making a statement!

When the Datsun Go and shortly after the Renault Kwid was launched onto our market, they led in a new era of affordable cars. Targeting first-time buyers, whose only alternative was mostly taxis and public transport, the cars weren’t richly spec’ed but they were affordable, and that’s what the buyers wanted. They spawned a segment selling around 1500 units a month, with automakers like Hyundai and Suzuki also looking to get in on the action. In a pre-emptive move, Renault launched a new version of the Kwid and this model proves that affordable does not have toe mean bland and spartan. This kwid not only looks good, but it’s also got the features to sway the buyers from the rival brands’ basic offerings.

The new Renault KWID sports a more muscular SUV-inspired look. Striking and bold colours, body cladding and styling reminding of some million Rand SUV. The new front fascia exudes a sense of aggression, rounded off with the SUV styled headlamps with silver streak LED DRL’s and tail lamps with LED Light guides.

The interior is as impressive as the exterior. The new upholstery fabric feels modern, emphasized by the new center fascia and meter cluster with sportier graphics. Intuitive technology such as a new MediaNav® /multi-media system complete with a larger 8” touchscreen display radio and Bluetooth® connectivity, and the convenience of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility ensure the driver and passengers stay connected. Added to this the KWID has a reverse camera and park distance sensors.

To top everything of the New Renault KWID comes standard with air-conditioning, all-electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors. Increased safety features like dual front airbags, seat belt reminder and enhanced road holding with the now 14” wheels.

The Kwid seats 5 adults with 279 litres of boot space and as they say in the infomercials: “But wait, there is more!”. The passenger glove box, driver and passenger in-door storage (with space for a 1-litre bottle) and rear parcel tray ads another 27 litres of storage space.

Under the bonnet a compact 1.0- litre 3-cylinder Smart Control efficiency (SCe) engine does duty, pushing out peak power of 50kW @ 5 500 rpm and maximum torque of 91Nm @ 4 250 rpm. It is paired to a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT gearbox, delivering 4.7 litres/100km, or 4.4 litres/100km with the AMT transmission.

Renault’s punchline at the launch was “making a statement” and we have to agree. The new Kwid proves that you can offer a comprehensive product, even in this segment. This is a stylish and very good little urban runaround, without breaking the bank.

The New Renault KWID model range comes standard with a 1 Year Comprehensive Insurance Cover, a 2 Year Service Plan, and a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at15 000km intervals.

RETAIL PRICING

• NEW Renault KWID Expression 1.0-litre SCeR 144 900
• NEW Renault KWID Expression AMT 1.0-litre SCeR 154 900
• NEW Renault KWID Dynamique 1.0-litre SCe R 154 900
• NEW Renault KWID Dynamique AMT1.0-litre SCeR 164 900
• NEW Renault KWID CLIMBER 1.0-litre SCeR 164 900
• NEW Renault KWID CLIMBER AMT1.0-litre SCeR 174 900