If you are hunting for a punchy SUV that does not strain the wallet, Renault has a fresh option for you. The carmaker has rolled out an updated version of its popular Kiger sub-compact SUV, packing in more than 35 design and feature changes. The headline news is the price: the turbo petrol manual transmission variant now starts at just Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most affordable turbo-powered SUVs on sale.
The whole revamp rests on Renault's ‘Rethink Performance’ philosophy, which tries to balance style, performance, fuel efficiency and safety all at once. This is a sub-4 metre SUV, and its dimensions stay unchanged, a length of 3991 mm, a wheelbase of 2500 mm and a ground clearance of 205 mm, which helps it cope well in city traffic and on the highway alike.
How the exterior has changed
The new Kiger looks bolder and fresher than before. It gets new front and rear bumpers, split headlamps with additional fog lights, a new Renault logo, new graphics on the C-pillar and 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels that lend it a premium air. To set the turbo variants apart, they carry a special turbo badge and red brake calipers. Black cladding and an LED light package push up its sporty appeal further. With new colour options and sporty elements, it comes across as more modern and aggressive overall. Buyers can pick from the Authentic, Evolution, Techno and Emotion variants.
Cabin and space
The changes are obvious the moment you step inside. The cabin gets new colour combinations, updated upholstery and a new steering wheel carrying the new logo. On higher variants, dual-tone upholstery, ambient lighting and leatherette seats add a premium feel. There is an 8 inch (20.32 cm) touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity and a digital driver display, all of which make the cabin quite practical. The 405 litre boot is roomy enough for family luggage.
Loaded with features
On the features front, the new Kiger is fully loaded. It offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, push-button start, a wireless charger, rain-sensing wipers, auto headlamps and cruise control. Top variants add a 360-degree camera and an Arkamys 3D sound system. Rear AC vents and electric ORVMs raise comfort for occupants even more.
A big leap in safety
Safety is where Renault has taken its biggest step. Every variant now gets 6 airbags as standard. Alongside that, the SUV offers ESP, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), hill start assist, ABS and a rear camera. Higher variants throw in a 360-degree view and a few extra safety features, giving it strong safety credentials in the segment.
Engines and performance
The new Kiger comes with two engine options. The first is a 1.0-litre NA petrol that makes 72 PS of power and 96 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed MT or AMT. The second is a 1.0-litre turbo petrol that puts out 100 PS, with 160 Nm of torque in the MT and 152 Nm in the CVT. The turbo engine delivers spirited performance, proving especially handy while overtaking on the highway. The turbo MT has a claimed mileage of around 20.38 kmpl. A balanced ride quality and handling make it a family SUV that is also enjoyable to drive.
All told, the updated Renault Kiger serves up a strong mix of style, features, safety and performance. The turbo MT variant starting at Rs 7.89 lakh makes it all the more appealing for budget-conscious buyers.
