Renault Kwid: Urban hatchback gets cool and goes easy on pockets Ever since its launch, the Renault Kwid has made its mark in the entry-level hatchback space.
With its SUV-ized design and intelligent urban layout, the Kwid marries affordability with practicality and a soupcon of style — a combination that’s rare at this price point.
The Kwid is targeted at first-time buyers and urban commuters promising more in a value small package.
It’s young and fresh with a small enough footprint that rivals in the category of compact crossover standout.
Design and Styling: Suv Inspired Looks In A Compact Package
The Renault Kwid’s most potent point is its striking design. It’s not, at first glance, an ordinary small hatchback.
It’s the styling that borrows cues from SUVs, with elements like high SUV-like ground clearance (184mm),
Rugged body cladding and a bold front end. Smooth LED DRLs, chiselled bonnet and distinctive grille ensure it commands attention.
Its dual-tone exterior choices and stylish wheel covers enhance its look.
The rear too looks good with wrap-around tail lamps and a high-mounted stop lamp – completing the SUV-like design language.
For those who are interested in a pint-size car with an outsized personality, the Kwid hits the mark.
Interior and Features: Astonishingly Current
Once inside, you end up with a smart and logical cabin in the Renault Kwid. Simple but well-designed, it’s all about maximizing space.
It gets a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (8-inch in the higher variants) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital instrument cluster and power windows.
The seats are supportive for short journeys, and the cabin is light and airu thanks to the high roofline and big windows.
It offers a boot storage of 279 litres which can be further increased to 620 litres with rear seats folded,
which is good for a car of its design and shape. The materials themselves are simplistic, but the fit and finish are reasonable for the class.
Engine, Power and Performance: Purpose Built for the City
The Kwid source power from a 1.0-litre petrol engine that generates 67 bhp and 91 Nm of torque and is coupled with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT gearbox.
A smaller 0.8-litre engine is also available on lower trims. Though power isn’t excessive, the lightweight nature of the car provides peppy around-town performance.
Now, the AMT gearbox isn’t exactly lightning-quick but it’s a much easier way to tackle traffic; it can, however, feel a little jerky under hard acceleration. Steering is light and the small dimensions make it a doddle to park and weave through traffic – ideal for town roads.
Pros:
Stylish Design: A stands out in the entry-level segment with its beautiful SUV-inspired styling
Reasonable pricing: value for money for the first-time purchasers
Feature Laden Cabin: Touchscreen, digital cluster, smartphone connectvity.
High Clearance from Ground: Suitable for Indian Roads
Large Trunk: Ideal for small families
Cons:
Build/Body Quality: Its is relatively light weight makes one wonder how well it will hold up in a crash.
Engine Performance: Poor for passing on the highway or spirited driving
Tight Rear Room: Ideal for Two Full-size Passengers in Back
Base Cabin Materials: Hard plastics are the order of the day inside
Renault Kwid:
The Renault Kwid changes the way people look at the budget hatchbacks. It has SUV-inspired styling, decent features and city-friendly performance, so it’s a solid choice for new drivers, small families and anyone who commutes in a big city. Although it is not as plush or spacious as more expensive cars, it offers premium quality at a competitive price. For such individuals, who want a dependable, good-looking and practical hatchback but at the same time are not too tight on the budget, the Kwid could be a strong alternative.