India bound Renault Kwid to make production in 2016

Published May 19, 2014
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Production version of the Mini SUV unveiled at the Indian Auto Expo to be launched in 2016

Renault has announced plans of transforming the funky Kwid concept SUV to a production model by the year 2016. The Renault Kwid concept was unveiled at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo enthralling all with its quirky styling both on the exterior and the interior. The Renault Kwid, in its production form will be a sub 4-meter compact SUV with both a 4-door and a 2-door configuration available to the public.

The KWID concept was designed with inputs from Renault’s design studio in India as well as the global headquarters in France. The KWID concept featured a futuristic off-road lifestyle SUV look with large chunky wheels and deep treaded off-road tyres. The KWID’s interior featured a cocoonish feel and is inspired by the look and feel of a bird’s nest. The concept also came equipped with a drone like attachment, called the ‘Flying Companion’, which could be operated by a tablet mounted into the dashboard.

Although most of this sounds good on paper and in a concept car, the production version will be more subdued and will feature more realistic styling. Renault though has confirmed the Kwid name will make it into production by 2016, slotting right below the awaited Captur SUV. Although The KWID will initially be offered with a conventional internal combustion engine mated to a two-wheel-drive drive train like the Renault Duster, the KWID will also be immediately ready to accept an all-electric power train option like the zero emissions Renault Zoe.

The Kwid will most likely feature the 1.5-litre DCi, 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine that does duty in the Duster. The DCi engine will be available in both 85 and 110PS options. Renault could also offer the Twingo derived 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor, which makes 90PS of peak power and 135Nm of peak torque. The naturally aspirated version of the same engine makes 70PS of peak power and 91Nm of torque could also power the base model Kwid. When launched in India, expect the Kwid to go straight up against the likes of the Ford Ecosport and be priced lower than the Renault Duster.