रेनॉल्ट क्विड आरएक्सटी

Renault Kwid has been the most awaited model series of this year. The best part about this hatch is that it is equipped with almost all the essential features, besides having a performance packed engine under its hood. Among the several versions available to pick from, Renault KWID RXT Driver Airbag Option is the top spec variant. It is especially appealing from the outside, as the designers have done a distinct job on it. The body toned bumpers, macho looking front grille, C-shaped headlamps and steel wheels with multi-spoke covers all combine together to make its overall appearance very fashionable. It is equally impressive from its inside too, thanks to the 2-tone dashboard, enriched with chrome accents. Safety wise, there is an engine immobilizer along with driver airbag, front and rear seatbelts and central locking with keyless entry. A lot of storage capacity is offered by embedding cup and bottle holders, two glove boxes and a rear parcel tray inside. The entertainment factor is addressed with a music system that can support a USB and Aux-In ports along with Bluetooth music streaming and handsfree mobile paring. Apart from this, the elements such as an air-conditioner with four blowers and 5-position air-vents are present. The convenience of its driver is further supported by features like electric power steering, front power windows, remote fuel plus boot release and many more. The generous wheelbase provides a large space in the cabin to take-in five occupants with ease. And the ground clearance is good enough to tackle the uneven roads of India. All in all, this variant is an ideal option for those with low budget.

Exteriors:

The frontage holds a wide grille which is bold and dynamic. On either sides of the bumper there are a pair of C-shaped headlights and fog lamps. On the sides, there are steel wheels painted in black with wheel arches having given a cladding. This is the main reason why this Kwid gets a silhouette of a sports utility vehicle. The steel rims have been covered with multi-spoke wheel covers. There are external mirrors on both sides painted in body color. A B-pillar blackout can be seen along with black decals on the doors. The entire picture is highlighted by the spoiler on the roof, which gives a sporty appeal.

Interiors:

Cabin consists of a lot of amenities that provides convenience to its occupants. The dual tone dashboard has an instrument panel that is embedded with a digital instrument cluster, which has chrome contours to it. Furthermore, it sports a gear shift indicator along with many other notifications. And then there are vents placed well on the dashboard with chrome rings. The steering wheel is wrapped with a cover that has leather inserts. And then there is a center fascia that is done up in piano black along with chrome. The floor console has two can holders adding to the storage capacity in the cabin. Seats are draped in champion red fabric upholstery and the front seats are premium, while the rear ones have integrated headrests along with neck rest and foldable backrest. Visors are provided for both driver and the front passenger. Rear cabin occupants also have assist grips for added convenience. The driver seat side has a release for tailgate and fuel lid too. A music system is present, which has Bluetooth streaming and has hands-free telephony as well. It also has a media navigation, roof mic, USB and Aux-in ports. This is supported by two front speakers and an antenna on the roof for the sake of better reception to the radio. A 12V power socket is available which will be useful in charging small electronic devices.

Engine and Performance:

Powering this variant is the 3-cylindered 0.8-litre engine that has a displacement capacity of around 799cc. Each of its cylinder has four valves enabling for DOHC valve configuration. It bears a capacity to produce 53.26bhp at 5678rpm and a peak torque output of 72Nm at just about 4386rpm. This trim is mated with 5-speed manual transmission synchromesh gear box.

Braking and Handling:

Its front wheels are fitted with a pair of disc brakes while the rear ones are affixed by the standard drum brakes. It is integrated with an electric power steering system that is good in terms of response, especially while in traffic. When it comes to suspension, front axle is coupled with McPherson strut with lower transverse link. The rear axle has twist beam suspension with coil springs.

Comfort Features:

An electric power steering will help alleviate the strain on the driver. Power windows are integrated to the front doors only. For regulating cabin temperature as per the occupants' preference, an air-conditioner unit is decked with a heater facility too. This is complimented by 4-speed blowers and 5-position air distribution vents. The instrument cluster contains an on-board trip computer within it. There is a an upper and lower glove box and open storage in front of the co-driver. Other storage spaces include map and 1-litre bottle holders in the door trims and a rear parcel tray. An auto-on cabin lighting also has timer and fade-out functions to it. The seats are quite relaxing and front seats has recline and longitudinal adjusting facility to them for added convenience.

Safety Features:

It is integrated with central locking system along with a remote keyless entry. A pair of fog lamps are affixed in the front bumper that adds to the looks of its frontage. And to the windshield, there is a washer and an automated intermittent wiper. An immobilizer will freeze the engine in case of detecting any unauthorized access. There is an airbag for the protection of its driver. Along with this, there are seat belts for the front and rear seats. A full size spare wheel is fitted in the boot compartment, which will be handy in the case of a flat tyre. In order to notify other vehicles of the car's presence, an emergency warning triangle is made available. Company is offering a two-year corrosion warranty that will further decrease the chances of this vehicle getting rust below it.

Pros:

1. Driver airbag is available.

2. Presence of MediaNav infotainment.

Cons:

1. Absence of anti-lock braking system.

2. Leather seating upholstery could be offered.