New Renault Kwid Has Arrived to Replace the Auto

The Indian car market has always had a place for compact, efficient, and stylish cars that can serve both families and city commuters. With rising fuel prices and traffic congestion, many people look for a better alternative to autos (auto-rickshaws) for personal use. That’s where the new Renault Kwid steps in — a compact hatchback that’s affordable, stylish, and packed with practical features.

Renault has refreshed the Kwid to meet the expectations of new-age buyers. This new version not only looks modern, but also gives you a comfortable drive, smart tech, and great fuel efficiency — all at a very reasonable price. Let’s explore why this car is creating a buzz and why it might just be the perfect replacement for the auto.

Design & Style

The new Renault Kwid has a bold and attractive design for its segment. It features a SUV-inspired stance which gives it a muscular look despite its compact size. The new front grille looks wider and more aggressive, with LED DRLs that add a touch of modernity.

From the side, the car still holds its compact nature but the dual-tone body color options, stylish wheel covers, and roof rails make it look sportier than ever before. The rear is neatly designed with stylish tail lamps and a black cladding on the bumper.

Inside, the cabin is quite surprising for a budget car. You get a dual-tone dashboard, premium upholstery, and a clean layout that doesn’t feel cheap. Renault has worked on improving cabin quality, and you can notice the refinement the moment you step in.

Engine & Performance

The new Kwid is offered in two engine options – a 0.8-litre and a 1.0-litre petrol engine. Both are BS6-compliant and tuned for city driving conditions. While the 0.8-litre engine is more fuel-efficient, the 1.0-litre engine gives you better power and confidence on highways.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• 0.8L Petrol – 54 PS Power, 72 Nm Torque

• 1.0L Petrol – 68 PS Power, 91 Nm Torque

You can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT (automatic). The AMT is particularly helpful for city traffic as it reduces fatigue.

Ride & Handling

Despite its size, the Renault Kwid handles Indian roads quite well. The suspension setup is tuned to absorb bumps and potholes comfortably, which makes it suitable for city roads as well as occasional highway drives.

The steering is light, making it easy to park and navigate through tight lanes. Even for first-time drivers, the Kwid feels easy and safe to handle. It may not be a performance car, but it surely delivers a smooth and confident ride for daily commutes.

Features & Tech

Renault has packed the Kwid with many features that are rare in this price range. Even in the base variant, you get essentials like digital instrument cluster and power steering. As you move up the variants, you get access to touchscreen infotainment, reverse parking camera, and more.

Here’s an overview table of some of the main features:

The touchscreen unit works well and supports smartphone connectivity. The reverse parking camera and rear sensors are a big help in crowded areas.

Mileage & Fuel Efficiency

This is where the Kwid really shines. It offers excellent mileage, which is one of the main reasons why people are considering it over autos and bikes.

• 0.8L Manual – Around 22-23 kmpl

• 1.0L Manual – Around 21-22 kmpl

• 1.0L AMT – Around 22 kmpl

With such high fuel efficiency, the running cost of this car stays very low, making it perfect for middle-class families, office goers, and even small business owners.

Price & Variants

One of the most attractive points of the Renault Kwid is its affordable pricing. It offers more value than most cars in its category, and even some priced higher.

Here are the ex-showroom prices (may vary slightly by location):