Renault India has launched an updated version of its popular Kwid hatchback. The new model comes with revised styling cues and a few feature additions. The 2018 Renault Kwid is priced in the range of Rs. 2.66 lakh and Rs. 4.59 lakh (ex-showroom).
On the design front, Renault hasn’t made any significant alterations to the Kwid’s looks. The only noticeable change on the outside is the new front grille that gets chrome accents on the higher variants. Meanwhile, the sheet metal has been kept unchanged in order to minimize any significant cost increases.
The biggest change with the new Renault Kwid 2018 is in the feature department. The Kwid now comes with rear view camera on the top-end RxT(O) variant, while the RxL trim is now offered with front power windows and remote central locking as standard. Higher variants also come with a new 12V power socket, some added chrome detailing on the centre console, and a centre armrest for the rear seat.
Interestingly, Renault India is now offering the 2018 Kwid hatchback with a 4 year / 1 lakh km warranty. This includes the 2 year / 50,000 km extended warranty package as well.
Mechanically, the 2018 Renault Kwid remains largely unchanged. It continues to be powered by two engine options – 0.8-litre petrol and a 1.0-litre petrol. While both these engines come with a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard, the latter also comes with an optional AMT automatic gearbox. The AMT versions of the new Kwid 2018 now get a creep function as well, which will allow drivers to simply modulate the brake pedal pressure to crawl forward in bumper to bumper city traffic, without the need to dab on the accelerator pedal.
Renault India is also expected to add dual airbags and anti lock braking system (ABS) to the Kwid hatchback in the near future. Additionally, the French automaker is said to be working on a more comprehensive facelift of the Kwid in India. This new Kwid facelift will launch in India in 2020.