The new Renault Kwid has finally arrived in South Africa, with two variants making up the local range at launch.
The 1,0 SCe Expression is priced at R119 900, while the better-equipped 1,0 SCe Dynamique comes in at R129 900.
The Expression trim includes a digital instrument cluster, black and red upholstery, height-adjustable front seats, electric windows up front, an audio system (with USB port and Bluetooth) and an air-conditioning system.
Dynamique adds front fog-lamps, a dual-tone dashboard, black, grey and red upholstery, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with voice control), and a navigation system. Both models feature a five-year/150 000 km warranty and come with free insurance for the first year, but a service plan is an optional extra.
Powered by a naturally aspirated 1,0-litre three-cylinder petrol mill worth 50 kW and 91 N.m (linked to a five-speed manual gearbox), the Indian-built Kwid will serve as Renault SA’s entry-level crossover. Renault SA claims a combined fuel economy figure of 4,7 L/100 km. The diminutive Kwid measures 3 679 mm long, with a wheelbase of 2 422 mm and 180 mm of ground clearance.
The Indian-market Kwid failed to impress during Global NCAP testing, leading to safety concerns. The SA-spec model, though, will come with a driver airbag as standard, but will not feature ABS at launch. Renault SA, however, says that it is studying the option of adding ABS at a later stage.
