Renault India is gearing up to launch the all-new Kiger sub-4 metre SUV in early next year. Ahead of its official price announcement, the carmaker revealed the model in its concept form that’s claimed to around 80 percent similar to the production version. It will be the smallest and most affordable SUV from Renault that will also be launched in global markets as well. The production-ready Renault Kiger will be offered with the 1.0L naturally-aspirated and 1.0L turbo petrol engines.
While the naturally-aspirated motor will come with manual and AMT gearbox options, the turbo petrol unit will be available with manual and CVT gearboxes. Speaking to an online media publication, Venkatram Mamillapalle, CEO and Managing Director, Renault (India), said that the company might consider electric version of the Kiger compact SUV and Tiber MPV, if it’s possible.
Even if Renault Kiger EV becomes a reality, it will come as an affordable option to the Tata Nexon EV. The latter one comes in three variants – XM, XZ Plus and XZ Plus LUX – priced at Rs 13.99 lakh, Rs 15.25 lakh and Rs 16.25 lakh respectively (all, ex-showroom). The Kiger EV will also take on the upcoming Mahindra e-XUV300 that might come by the end of next year or early 2022.
Compared to the Renault Kwid EV, the electric version of the Kiger will be longer, wider and have higher ground clearance. In fact, it might feature a bigger battery pack and offer a range over 300km on a single charge. Just so you know, the Kwid EV comes with 26.8kWh battery pack delivering a claimed range of 271km on a full charge.
Similar to the Kwid hatchback, the upcoming Kiger compact SUV sits on CMF-A+ platform. It will share some elements with the Triber, but have a new interior layout and design. The production-ready model will feature LED DRLs flanking the grille, LED turn indicators, chunky roof rails and LED taillamps seprated via a horizontal metal strip.
