Renault is all set to unveil the long-awaited sub-4 meter SUV in the country tomorrow. Codenamed HBC, the new compact SUV is rumoured to be called the Renault Kiger. The company has released a new teaser image of the upcoming compact SUV concept with a caption “1 Day To Go”.
The Renault HBC compact SUV will be the brand’s smallest SUV for the Indian market. It will be based on the CMF-A+ modular platform, which also underpins the Triber MPV and the soon-to-be-launched Nissan Magnite. Not just platform, the new Kiger will also share the engine and gearbox options with the new Magnite.
The upcoming Renault HBC is likely to be powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged versions. The naturally-aspirated engine is the same unit that powers the Renault Triber. Paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, this engine produces 72bhp of maximum power and 96Nm of torque. On the other hand, the turbocharged version will produces 99bhp and 160Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and a CVT automatic.
Renault has also shared a smaller teaser video, which shows that the new model will be a concept car. The video reveals LED DRLs, green LED dynamic turn indicators, roof-integrated spoiler, chunky roof rails and LED tail-lamps.
The spy images reveal that the Kiger will feature the brand’s signature styling. Most of the styling elements will be shared with bigger Renault cars. It will have familiar chrome-lined, wing-like front grille, and split headlamp unit with LED DRLs on top and main headlamp unit placed lower down the bumper. At the back, the SUV will have striking C-pillar, raked windscreen and angular C-shaped tail-lamps.
The cabin will have similarities with the Triber MPV; however, Renault will make changes and offer more features to keep things fresh. It will have newly styled centre console, dominated by a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system and new-styled air-con vents. Buttons, steering wheel and instrument console will be sourced from the Triber. The sub-4 meter SUV is also expected to be equipped with high-end comfort and convenience features like climate control, keyless entry and Go, push button start/stop, multi-functional steering wheel, a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity and others. Similar to the Nissan Magnite, the HBC could also receive 360 degree surround view camera and sunroof.
Likely to be launched in the first quarter of 2021, the new Renault HBC Kiger is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. It will directly rival the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet.
