In a move intended to consolidate its position in India and abroad, French automaker Renault will offer its new Kwid compact crossover as an affordable city car with SUV-like exterior styling, fuel-efficient drivetrain, and segment-beating interior appointments. The Kwid debuts the new CMF-A modular architecture, a joint offering from Renault and Nissan, and promises versatility and tons of features for very little outlay.
The Kwid is the latest step in Renault's effort to grow its presence in international markets: "With Kwid, Renault continues to pursue its strategy of accessible mobility for all to step up its international growth. Using a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform and following the trail blazed by the Duster, the Kwid will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use," said Renault chief exec Carlos Ghosn.
Created specifically to meet the needs of the Indian marketplace, the Kwid will join the Fluence, Koleos, Pulse, Duster and Scala as the sixth new model in Renault's expanding presence in the country. So far, the strategy seems to be working: Renault sold almost 45,000 vehicles in India last year, up from the 1,500 sold in 2011. "In the space of just a few years, Renault has made greater gains in terms of recognition and visibility than rival brands present in India for 10 years," Renault boasts in a press release.
Read on to find out how the make plans to extend this track record of success.
Continue reading to learn more about the Renault KWID.
Exterior
Anyone who remembers the Kwid concept vehicle revealed last year might be sorely disappointed by the final design of the production version. As is often the case with this sort of thing, the flamboyance of the blue-sky-dreaming concept is lost in the transition to hard-nosed reality. The concept was superbly eye-catching, with a grey paint job offset by yellow accents, super-wide fenders sitting over knobby tires wrapped around funky wheels, scissor doors, and an external, roof-mounted aerial drone to check out the source of congestion in stop-and-go traffic. Unfortunately, the production version gets none of these things.
But that shouldn't be surprising. The Kwid is supposed to be an accessible, low entry point in the city-car A-segment, and as such, all frills and extraneous features have been cut in favor of greater value.
With that in mind, there's nothing inherently wrong with the production version of the Kwid (although a drone would have been one very sweet option). The Kwid features a crossover-like design with a high stance, boxy proportions and plenty of storage, while still maintaining a smallish footprint and somewhat compact dimensions.
Aesthetically, the Kwid attempts to bring a heady dose of SUVness to the compact crossover city car segment.
It was built on the CMF-A (Common Module Family) platform, a new architecture that's the result of a joint partnership between Renault and Nissan. The two automakers have been in cahoots since 1999, and share technologies and parts across the line with the goal of lowering RD costs for both makes. So far, the effort has been quite successful, with the Renault-Nissan Alliance selling some 8.5 million vehicles in nearly 200 different countries in 2014.
Essentially, the CMF platform is similar to Volkswagen's MQB platform in that it uses flexible parts and structures to create a variety of different vehicles across multiple body styles. The Kwid is the first to use the CMF-A platform, while other CMF-derivative vehicles include the Nissan Qashqai, Nissan Pulsar, and Renault Espace. Look for future CMF use in the upcoming Renault Kadjar and Renault Megane.
"The CMF-A platform opens up new horizons in terms of our ability to satisfy and even exceed the expectations of customers in countries where demand is currently highest, particularly those customers buying a vehicle for the first time," says Arnaud Deboeuf, Alliance Senior Vice-President of Renault-Nissan BV and Alliance CEO Office. "These influential consumers do not want a car that was initially designed for mature markets before becoming outdated. They aspire - and rightly so - to a modern, robust, elegant car at a price that represents a mini- revolution for such a remarkable vehicle."
Aesthetically, the Kwid attempts to bring a heady dose of SUVness to the compact crossover city car segment. This is done through a variety of features, including short overhangs in the front and rear, plus a lifted body that provides over seven inches of ground clearance.
In front is a large, geometric central air intake, bookended by headlights that use Renault's new C-shaped chrome trim lighting signature. It's a squared-off look using round edges, giving the front fascia a rugged demeanor. Twin foglamps set in black trim sit in the corners.
Moving to the flanks, we see more rectangular shapes, with the front, middle, and rear sections of the car chunked into boxy segments. This is emphasized by the black-trimmed wheel arches, which also help to visually raise the Kwid higher off the ground. While not as pumped-up as the concept car, the fender wells on the production car are still somewhat exaggerated, adding visual mass at the corners. The waistline is raked in appearance, pushed forward by a bulging rear quarter panel and emphasized by the forward-positioned windshield.
The rear is more rounded, with a crease at the mid-section of the tailgate that juts out into the lower bumper, which continues the black protective trim found in the wheel arches and side skirts. A small, color-matched spoiler trails the roofline.
Renault obviously used the right cues to lend the Kwid a sense of greater size and presence. But even with all these allusions to being a robust SUV, the Kwid is still quite compact, and should be small enough to work in a crowded city. Dimensions include a 12-foot length and five-foot width, which Renault claims is ideal for "zipping about in urban traffic."
A full list of color options for the paint is currently unavailable, but gauging from the press release photos, expect red and a greenish-brown dubbed "Outback Bronze."
Exterior DimensionsInterior
The interior of the concept Kwid was even more outrageous than its exterior, but as usual, the production car is much tamer. However, that doesn't keep it from offering a variety of very nice features for this segment. In fact, the interior of the Kwid is arguably its best feature when placed alongside its competitors.
Despite its somewhat diminutive exterior dimensions, the interior boasts a decent amount of space and storage capacity.
In terms of layout and design, the Kwid draws heavily from the current line of Dacia models. It's simple and straightforward, with little clutter spread across the dash. The central console is finished in piano black, and contains an interface for the infotainment system and climate control, plus two squared air vents. Two additional rounded air vents are at either corner of the dash. Behind the ergonomic steering wheel is a digital gauge cluster, with vitals on display in yellow. Chrome trim surrounds the central console, peripheral air vents and gauge cluster.
The seats are slightly bolstered for lateral support when dodging through traffic, and have red inserts in the shoulder area. The seats also offer a tall driving position, which combines with the large windows and high stance for good visibility.
For technology, Renault has blessed the Kwid with a modern appointment of infotainment and gadgets, including a digital multimedia and navigation system, 7-inch touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Despite its somewhat diminutive exterior dimensions, the interior boasts a decent amount of space and storage capacity. There's seating for five, while the trunk offers a manufacturer's claimed "best-in-class load capacity."
Finally, there's an optional driver-side airbag.
Drivetrain
When it comes to the drivetrain, Renault has been strangely tight-lipped. So far, we have details on only a single engine option - a 0.8-liter, three-cylinder gasoline unit. We do know the engine was developed through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and is the latest and smallest addition to the engine family on offer from the joint venture. Output figures are currently unavailable, but Renault does say it'll be "extremely well positioned in terms of fuel consumption," purportedly offering best-in-class mileage. Exact numbers to pin to these claims should be released sometime in the next few months.
We do know the engine was developed through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and is the latest and smallest addition to the engine family on offer from the joint venture.
In the meantime, we can also say with confidence that this three-cylinder gas-sipper will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission, also a new unit from Renault. No word yet on the availability of an automatic gearbox.
With so few details on hand, it's hard not to speculate. While a 0.8-liter fits the bill for a car like the Kwid, I wouldn't be surprised if Renault decided to throw in a diesel unit for even greater mileage, and something turbocharged for more fun. Neither would be all that large or powerful, but if Renault plans on selling the Kwid to a wide variety of buyers, it'll need more than a single engine option.
It's also worth mentioning that the concept Kwid was unveiled with a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Despite the ICE, Renault says the concept was designed with the intention of being an electric-vehicle, with space engineered into the chassis for the requisite batteries and motors required for full electric power. Whether or not any of these features will ever make it to production remains to be seen.
Drivetrain SpecificationsPrices
Here's the real kicker. The Kwid is slated for launch in India with a price tag between 3 and 4 lakhs. One lakh is equivalent to 100,000 rupees, which means at current conversion rates (5/20/15), the Kwid will cost between $4,717 and $6,289. The release date is scheduled for the second half of 2015, during the festival season starting around September. No details regarding trim levels are currently available.
CompetitionMaruti Suzuki Alto 800
Suzuki boasts that the Alto has been the No.1 selling car in India for the last decade. The latest model is tall and boxy, but aesthetically less of a SUV/crossover than the Kwid, with a rounded front fascia, small wheels and low fenders, all of which lend it a much more compact-looking exterior. The interior is finished in either brown or grey, and offers simple packaging and decent utility. The Japanese automaker claims a best-in-class "performance amongst all small cars in India," which equates to 47 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 51 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm, and 53 mpg from its 0.8-liter three-cylinder engine. Prices range between $3,870 and $5,755.
Read the full review on our Indian site here.
Hyundai Eon
Originally brought to the Indian market in October of 2011, the Eon is in line with what you'd expect of a five-door compact hatchback, with an inclined front fascia and bubble-like exterior design. The interior is less high-tech than the Kwid, but has lots of space and utility. Originally offered with a 0.8-liter three-cylinder engine producing 55 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 55 pound-feet at 4,000 rpm, Hyundai recently added a more powerful 1.0-liter three-cylinder with 68 horsepower and 70 pound-feet. Mileage for the smaller powerplant is rated at 50 mpg. Pricing starts at $4,856 and gets up to $6,636.
Read our full review on our Indian site here.
Conclusion
All told, the Kwid is a solid little car. The exterior may not have the same impact as the concept that it's based on, but it's definitely not a burden to look at. Buyers are sure to pick up on the SUV cues, and it's about the right size for urban maneuvering. The interior too presents all the correct pieces, with the digital gauges, large touchscreen, and multimedia infotainment all lending occupants a sense of modernity and high-techiness. Most impressive, however, is the price. At about $5.5K, the Kwid should be well positioned to entice buyers looking for maximum value for their money. While many vehicles that try to do it all end up riding the fence into disaster, the Kwid seems to strike a good balance, offering everything you need and expect for a bargain price tag.
While many vehicles that try to do it all end up riding the fence into disaster, the Kwid seems to strike a good balance, offering everything you need and expect for a bargain price tag.
So far, so good. However, it is troubling that Renault has declined to give us more information regarding the Kwid's drivetrain. Will the automaker add more engine and transmission options? What sort of output should we expect from the 0.8-liter three-cylinder already on the table? What kind of mileage will it offer? These are basic questions that need answering before a truly definitive decision can be made on the Kwid's worth. I expect a full disclosure of details soon.
But beyond the uncertain drivetrain, the Kwid should be seen as the latest from a carmaker that is moving quickly towards a vastly expanded worldwide presence. Not only can this be seen in the markets that now enjoy availability of Renault models, but in the process that goes into the very creation of the car. The concept, for example, was the first to be revealed outside of Europe. The production vehicle's body and chassis were tested in Japan, the body equipment was evaluated in Korea, the endurance tests were handled in France, and the assembly testing in India. Furthermore, development transpired close to its intended market, with supplier sourcing in India raised to 98 percent total.
As international markets expand, Renault feels urgency to expand with them. The automaker is currently active in 125 countries, selling 2.7 million vehicles worldwide in 2014. Around 46 percent of sales now occur outside of Europe, up from 37 percent five years ago. The carmaker has five design centers around the world for product adaptation to meet local requirements.
The Kwid should therefore be seen as part of Renault's earnest intention to increase its share in the Indian market from two percent to five percent by the midterm. With India expected to be the world's third-biggest market by 2020, we could see Renault employ strategies similar to those used for the Kwid in other expanding markets.
For all accounts and purposes, the Kwid meets those criteria. Now all we have to do is wait for the drivetrain specs, but considering the rapidly approaching release date, we shouldn't have to wait long.
LOVE ITSuperb interior amenities and techHighly affordableSUV looks without SUV sizeNew modular platformLEAVE ITConcept was so much coolerLittle info on engine or possible future engine optionsPress Release
As an innovator since 1898, Renault has constantly sought to pioneer new ideas, question conventional thinking and reinvent the way we use cars.
"With Kwid, Renault continues to pursue its strategy of accessible mobility for all to step up its international growth. Using a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform and following the trail blazed by the Duster, the Kwid will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use."
Carlos Ghosn - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Groupe Renault
The Kwid overturns established A-segment design cues thanks to a robust, stylish exterior plus a modern, welcoming interior equipped with features normally associated with models from the next segment up.
This eminently modern newcomer features SUV styling and construction, combining generous cabin space with unprecedented features for its segment, while its compact footprint makes it particularly versatile.
Quality interior appointments include a modern Media-Nav navigation/multimedia system complete with large seven-inch touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Kwid combines the comfort and functional user-friendliness of a family city car with a modular interior and a raft of stowage solutions.
Renault has long showcased its ability to develop unique, innovative vehicles designed to meet the specific needs of its international markets.
With the introduction of the Kwid, the brand has gone a step further down the road of designing attractive, affordable vehicles in the small-car segment.
The Kwid will be launched in India in the second half of 2015 with a price tag of between 3 and 4 lakhs.
1. Unique styling, plus features new to the Kwid's segment
The combination of Kwid's great looks, features more readily associated with higher-end models, a dynamic stance and SUV lines adapted to its compact size make it a unique offering in India's compact city car segment. The brand new 'Outback Bronze' colour adds a warm, energetic touch. The Kwid is an attractive, modern car, with a spacious, comfortable interior that meets the everyday needs of families.
SUV styling that inspires confidence
The Renault Kwid illustrates the 'Explore' petal of Renault's design strategy, a symbol that stands for dynamic performance, robust strength and a taste for adventure. The Kwid's SUV-inspired design is an innovation in its segment.
Its short front and rear overhangs and high ground clearance (180mm) exude an impression of strength and reliability.
At 3.68 meters long and 1.58 meters wide, Kwid is ideally for zipping about in urban traffic, while its high-up driving position provides greater visibility for more relaxed journeys.
"At first glance, the Kwid blends an emotional design with the need for reassurance expressed by customers. Its SUV lines mirror its tough, robust character and underpin its distinctive, modern look."
Laurens van den Acker - Senior Vice President, Corporate Design
The Kwid's upright front end and short front and rear overhangs provide owners with the look associated with SUVs.
The bold, structured grille design highlights the logo and further emphasises the model's SUV credentials, while the head lights incorporate the brand's new lighting signature including a 'C'-shaped chrome trim.
The slightly sculpted sides provide a fluid, dynamic touch, with the rectangular forms of the black wheel arches providing another pointer to the Kwid's SUV breeding, as well as additional protection. The lower door decor underlines the Kwid's robust character. The steeply-raked, forward-positioned windscreen lends a sense of movement and fluidity to the high waistline which rises slightly at the rear.
The large windows ensure good visibility for the driver and play a big part in travelling comfort.
"TheKwid is an entirely new car which offers a lot of surprises both inside and out, including features from the next segment up."
David Durand - Head of Kwid Styling
At the rear, the lower part of the bumper comes with a black trim, another SUV cue. The body-coloured tailgate spoiler adds to the car's dynamic stance.
A modern interior
The Kwid's interior carries over the same confidence-inspiring styling as the exterior. Its distinctive appointments suggest status without neglecting everyday needs.
The horizontal, uncluttered lines of the dashboard convey an impression of width and feature the cues associated with higher-end segments.
The digital instruments and chrome air vent surrounds create a modern, high-quality feel. The dashboard also harmoniously houses the centrally-positioned multimedia system. Designed by Renault Design India, the interior trim is reassuring and status-enhancing.
Features new to the A-mini segment
The Kwid offers a modern, intuitive interior. The piano black centre console comes with a chrome-surround and houses the Media-Nav multimedia/navigation system which comes with a seven-inch (18 cm) display, an unprecedented size for the segment.
The Kwid's connected interior includes technologies that not only meet drivers' needs but also make driving simpler.
The user-friendly Media-Nav system includes the radio and Bluetooth technology for hands-free telephony which contributes to safer driving.
These features correspond to the needs of Indian customers who are looking for status and connected technologies.
Thanks to its specific architecture, the Kwid combines a compact footprint (length: 3.68m) with a spacious interior that sets the standard in its category for all five occupants. The front seats are generously sized and the rear seats are particularly comfortable.
The Kwid has a very spacious boot for a best-in-class load capacity.
2. The Kwid, the latest step in Renault's international growth strategy
The Kwid sees Renault launch a global car, made for easy living and a new way to go motoring. Built on a brand new platform common to Renault and Nissan, the Kwid reaps full benefit from the Alliance's pooled resources and expertise. The new model vehicle is adapted to the specific needs of markets like India and will enable Renault to push ahead with the deployment of its international expansion strategy.
Based on a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform
Founded in 1999, the Renault-Nissan Alliance sold 8.5 million vehicles in almost 200 countries in 2014, consolidating its position as the world's fourth largest vehicle manufacturer.
The Renault Kwid is the first Renault-Nissan Alliance model to use the CMF-A platform.
Thanks to this platform-based approach, the Alliance will be able to go further still in the development of an international, flexible product offering based on component sharing and high-performance architectures.
Like all the Alliance platforms, the CMF-A is extremely flexible. As a result, exterior styling and the powertrain can be varied significantly in order to match the specific requirements and preferences of customers in Renault's international markets like India.
"The CMF-A platform opens up new horizons in terms of our ability to satisfy and even exceed the expectations of customers in countries where demand is currently highest, particularly those customers buying a vehicle for the first time. (...) These influential consumers do not want a car that was initially designed for mature markets before becoming outdated. They aspire - and rightly so - to a modern, robust, elegant car at a price that represents a mini- revolution for such a remarkable vehicle."
Arnaud Deboeuf - Alliance Senior Vice-President of Renault-Nissan BV and Alliance CEO Office
Customer-focused development founded on complementary expertise
Renault went further down the road in terms of its organisation, cost management and delivery times to design and manufacture the Kwid, a model with a global calling.
The process made use of resources and staff in France, Japan, Korea and India.
For example, vehicle testing took advantage of the Alliance's strengths by using different establishments to put the Kwid through its paces: the body and chassis were tested in Japan, body equipment was evaluated in Korea and endurance tests were carried out in France, while India was the backdrop for overall and assembly testing.
The vehicle was developed close to its market. Supplier sourcing in India has been raised to 98 per cent, including 60 per cent in the Chennai region.
The project management team put in place the conditions necessary to develop the Kwid, with the entire team working out of a single location so that the teams tasked with designing, developing and building the car could work together more effectively.
Methodologies throughout were harnessed to ensure the car would be in phase with market needs and meet pricing targets.
A strategy based on expanding international markets
The Renault Group is active in 125 countries and sold 2,712,432 vehicles worldwide in 2014. As a result of this international strategy, Renault now sells 46 per cent of its vehicles outside of Europe, compared with 37 per cent in 2010.
Renault is pursuing its strategy to build vehicles close to its markets with 36 production sites and more than 12,000 points of sale worldwide.
Renault has regional engineering centres based in strategically important countries in order to take account of local needs (flex fuel engines in Brazil, extreme cold in Russia, etc.).
Furthermore, with five design centres around the world (France, Brazil, Romania, Korea and India), the Group is able to take account of local parameters when designing and adapting its products to meet specific requirements, such as colours and materials.
Following the revelation of the KWID Concept, the first Renault concept car to have been unveiled outside of Europe (New Delhi Motor Show in February 2014), Renault is staging the world premiere of the Kwid in India. The Kwid is a strong illustration of Renault's growth ambitions on international markets.
The Kwid mirrors Renault's vision of the motor car... innovative, attractive and affordable. This vision is expressed by the brand's new 'Renault - Passion for Life' tagline.
Renault has been around for more than 115 years, during which time it has pioneered a wealth of innovations intended for use by all motorists.
Today, Renault is continuing to innovate and develop technologies that stay one step ahead of customer requirements, as illustrated by its comprehensive range of electric vehicles.
This clearly-stated commitment reflects Renault's customer-focused approach which seeks to make innovations even more readily available, bringing them within the reach of the greatest number. For Renault, innovating primarily means designing the best products and services possible and making them an affordable reality.
As the inventor of the 'Voitures Vivre' concept, Renault has acknowledged know-how in the city car segment. This expertise is now expressed in the brand's new tagline: 'Renault - Passion for Life'.
Over the years, Renault has created numerous city cars that have reflected the changing face of society through their design and technical specification, introducing technological innovations that have simplified life for their owners, from remote central locking and automatic boot-opening to hands-free cards, etc.
Meanwhile, Renault's expertise as an engine manufacturer in Formula 1 has enabled the Group to develop a wide range of powertrain innovations that have played a part in bringing down the fuel consumption of production models.
Renault is also reputed for conceptual innovations such as sliding rear bench seats, tipping seats and flat floors for everyday versatility.
From the outset, Renault forged a reputation for making 'Voitures Vivre', in other words cars that are innovative, ingenious, versatile and comfortable. Since 2012, these Renault hallmarks have combined with a desire to appeal to customers' emotions, a shift that called for a fresh approach to vehicle design.
"Our new tagline 'Renault - Passion for Life" mirrors the in-depth design transformation pioneered by the latest-generation Clio. More than a signature, it expresses a promise to our customers. Our models are developed with passion by our engineers and designers to make people's lives easier and more enjoyable."
Michael van der Sande - Senior Vice-President, Global Marketing
Renault's ambition is to develop mobility in its international markets.
Like all volume vehicle manufacturers, Renault markets a comprehensive range of vehicles to meet the needs of customers the world over. However, Renault stands apart from other brands for its visionary strategy based on bold objectives and a commitment to mobility for all in its international markets.
Renault has a proven ability to develop vehicles tailored to all markets, with the Duster for example, by designing the practical products customers need.
This approach has also enabled Renault to be competitive by reducing costs, shortening development times and offering more attractive products, while at the same time paying attention to the functions and content that customers want.
Today, Renault and its partner Nissan are going even further by investing in the CMF-A platform which will provide the basis for a new range of modern vehicles targeting the greatest number.
Thanks to a combination of unprecedented features for the segment, attractive SUV styling and intuitive equipment, the Kwid personifies the brand's values as a model designed with passion with the intention of enhancing the lives of its owners.
3. Renault's ambitions in India
India is one of Renault's priority markets, along with Russia, Brazil and China. With a staff of more than 12,000, the Group has a strong local base there enabling it to adapt more effectively to local realities and requirements.
The Kwid is an illustration of Renault's ability to develop vehicles that make everyday life easier by meeting the needs of customers looking for a stylish vehicle that is robust and easy to drive. The Kwid's design and innovative features are poised to play an essential role in Renault's ongoing expansion in India.
A high-potential market
With a vehicle ownership rate currently standing at just 20 per 1,000 inhabitants compared with 105 in China, 300 in Russia and 600 in Europe, the Indian automotive market is expanding rapidly. In 2014, sales increased by 3.1 per cent to reach 2,537,892 vehicles and volumes are expected to be around five million by 2020. As a result, India could become the world's third biggest market by the end of the decade.
Renault's ambition is to increase its share of the Indian market from two per cent to a mid-term five per cent.
More than ever, the emerging young middle classes see mobility as a way to escape the constraints of the public transport system, gain a degree of freedom, display their social success and have a safe means of transport for their family.
In a market where the A2 and A3 segments account for the bulk of sales (the A segment currently accounts for more than 30 per cent of retail sales), a growing number of customers are keen to own larger, higher-end models.
Against a backdrop of rapid urban development, customers in India are looking for more connected, sophisticated cars that are reassuring and designed for family use. The Kwid meets these requirements.
A strong base and a fast-expanding network
Since arriving in India as an independent brand in 2010, Renault has established itself as a highly dynamic player in the automotive sector.
Renault has placed the emphasis on local presence and local content by setting up an operational base for the Alliance, with a production plant in Chennai, along with the Renault-Nissan engineering and purchasing centre and the Technical Business Centre India (RNTBCI).
The design centres in Mumbai and Chennai, and logistics hubs in Pune and Chennai reveal the brand's determination to establish a strong long-term presence in the country. The Mumbai design centre was the first to be opened in India by a foreign vehicle manufacturer in 2007.
Renault has an extensive network of dealers covering over 80 per cent of India, in 120 cities. This fast-expanding network increased from 14 dealers in mid-2011 to 157 at the end of 2014. It is expected to reach 205 dealerships by end-2015.
An increasingly acclaimed brand
In 2010, Renault announced a strategy to bring five vehicles to market in this country.
The Fluence and Koleos were launched in May and September 2011 respectively. Then, in January, July and September 2012, Renault rolled out the Pulse, Duster and Scala.
Renault sold nearly 45,000 vehicles in 2014, compared with 1,500 in 2011. In the space of just a few years, Renault has made greater gains in terms of recognition and visibility than rival brands present in India for 10 years.
Today, Renault ranks as the number one European make and number nine overall in India for vehicle sales. The Lodgy's recent launch in April 2015 is expected to consolidate Renault's growth in the country.
"Thanks to the Duster, Renault has become India's leading European brand. Following the launch of the Lodgy last month, and the warm welcome it received from the press, we are now taking the wraps off the Kwid. We confirm that our medium-term objective is to earn a five percent market share in India, one of the key countries in Renault's international growth strategy. "
Bernard Cambier - Senior Vice President, Chairman of Africa-Middle East-India Region
Renault is more and more acknowledged in India where it has received 40 awards, including 31 for the Duster alone.
Renault won the title of Manufacturer of the Year in 2012.
The Duster won the Indian Car of the Year prize in 2013. Less than a year after its launch, the Duster also received the TNS Voice of Customer prize for the highest rate of customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, the Duster was runner-up in the JD Power Asia Pacific 2013 India rankings on initial quality. The company praised the remarkable quality of the Duster in a highly congested segment, with no fewer than 15 models in contention.
http://www.topspeed.com/cars/renault/2015-renault-kwid-ar169490.html
The Kwid is the latest step in Renault's effort to grow its presence in international markets: "With Kwid, Renault continues to pursue its strategy of accessible mobility for all to step up its international growth. Using a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform and following the trail blazed by the Duster, the Kwid will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use," said Renault chief exec Carlos Ghosn.
Created specifically to meet the needs of the Indian marketplace, the Kwid will join the Fluence, Koleos, Pulse, Duster and Scala as the sixth new model in Renault's expanding presence in the country. So far, the strategy seems to be working: Renault sold almost 45,000 vehicles in India last year, up from the 1,500 sold in 2011. "In the space of just a few years, Renault has made greater gains in terms of recognition and visibility than rival brands present in India for 10 years," Renault boasts in a press release.
Read on to find out how the make plans to extend this track record of success.
Continue reading to learn more about the Renault KWID.
Exterior
Anyone who remembers the Kwid concept vehicle revealed last year might be sorely disappointed by the final design of the production version. As is often the case with this sort of thing, the flamboyance of the blue-sky-dreaming concept is lost in the transition to hard-nosed reality. The concept was superbly eye-catching, with a grey paint job offset by yellow accents, super-wide fenders sitting over knobby tires wrapped around funky wheels, scissor doors, and an external, roof-mounted aerial drone to check out the source of congestion in stop-and-go traffic. Unfortunately, the production version gets none of these things.
But that shouldn't be surprising. The Kwid is supposed to be an accessible, low entry point in the city-car A-segment, and as such, all frills and extraneous features have been cut in favor of greater value.
With that in mind, there's nothing inherently wrong with the production version of the Kwid (although a drone would have been one very sweet option). The Kwid features a crossover-like design with a high stance, boxy proportions and plenty of storage, while still maintaining a smallish footprint and somewhat compact dimensions.
Aesthetically, the Kwid attempts to bring a heady dose of SUVness to the compact crossover city car segment.
It was built on the CMF-A (Common Module Family) platform, a new architecture that's the result of a joint partnership between Renault and Nissan. The two automakers have been in cahoots since 1999, and share technologies and parts across the line with the goal of lowering RD costs for both makes. So far, the effort has been quite successful, with the Renault-Nissan Alliance selling some 8.5 million vehicles in nearly 200 different countries in 2014.
Essentially, the CMF platform is similar to Volkswagen's MQB platform in that it uses flexible parts and structures to create a variety of different vehicles across multiple body styles. The Kwid is the first to use the CMF-A platform, while other CMF-derivative vehicles include the Nissan Qashqai, Nissan Pulsar, and Renault Espace. Look for future CMF use in the upcoming Renault Kadjar and Renault Megane.
"The CMF-A platform opens up new horizons in terms of our ability to satisfy and even exceed the expectations of customers in countries where demand is currently highest, particularly those customers buying a vehicle for the first time," says Arnaud Deboeuf, Alliance Senior Vice-President of Renault-Nissan BV and Alliance CEO Office. "These influential consumers do not want a car that was initially designed for mature markets before becoming outdated. They aspire - and rightly so - to a modern, robust, elegant car at a price that represents a mini- revolution for such a remarkable vehicle."
Aesthetically, the Kwid attempts to bring a heady dose of SUVness to the compact crossover city car segment. This is done through a variety of features, including short overhangs in the front and rear, plus a lifted body that provides over seven inches of ground clearance.
In front is a large, geometric central air intake, bookended by headlights that use Renault's new C-shaped chrome trim lighting signature. It's a squared-off look using round edges, giving the front fascia a rugged demeanor. Twin foglamps set in black trim sit in the corners.
Moving to the flanks, we see more rectangular shapes, with the front, middle, and rear sections of the car chunked into boxy segments. This is emphasized by the black-trimmed wheel arches, which also help to visually raise the Kwid higher off the ground. While not as pumped-up as the concept car, the fender wells on the production car are still somewhat exaggerated, adding visual mass at the corners. The waistline is raked in appearance, pushed forward by a bulging rear quarter panel and emphasized by the forward-positioned windshield.
The rear is more rounded, with a crease at the mid-section of the tailgate that juts out into the lower bumper, which continues the black protective trim found in the wheel arches and side skirts. A small, color-matched spoiler trails the roofline.
Renault obviously used the right cues to lend the Kwid a sense of greater size and presence. But even with all these allusions to being a robust SUV, the Kwid is still quite compact, and should be small enough to work in a crowded city. Dimensions include a 12-foot length and five-foot width, which Renault claims is ideal for "zipping about in urban traffic."
A full list of color options for the paint is currently unavailable, but gauging from the press release photos, expect red and a greenish-brown dubbed "Outback Bronze."
Exterior DimensionsInterior
The interior of the concept Kwid was even more outrageous than its exterior, but as usual, the production car is much tamer. However, that doesn't keep it from offering a variety of very nice features for this segment. In fact, the interior of the Kwid is arguably its best feature when placed alongside its competitors.
Despite its somewhat diminutive exterior dimensions, the interior boasts a decent amount of space and storage capacity.
In terms of layout and design, the Kwid draws heavily from the current line of Dacia models. It's simple and straightforward, with little clutter spread across the dash. The central console is finished in piano black, and contains an interface for the infotainment system and climate control, plus two squared air vents. Two additional rounded air vents are at either corner of the dash. Behind the ergonomic steering wheel is a digital gauge cluster, with vitals on display in yellow. Chrome trim surrounds the central console, peripheral air vents and gauge cluster.
The seats are slightly bolstered for lateral support when dodging through traffic, and have red inserts in the shoulder area. The seats also offer a tall driving position, which combines with the large windows and high stance for good visibility.
For technology, Renault has blessed the Kwid with a modern appointment of infotainment and gadgets, including a digital multimedia and navigation system, 7-inch touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Despite its somewhat diminutive exterior dimensions, the interior boasts a decent amount of space and storage capacity. There's seating for five, while the trunk offers a manufacturer's claimed "best-in-class load capacity."
Finally, there's an optional driver-side airbag.
Drivetrain
When it comes to the drivetrain, Renault has been strangely tight-lipped. So far, we have details on only a single engine option - a 0.8-liter, three-cylinder gasoline unit. We do know the engine was developed through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and is the latest and smallest addition to the engine family on offer from the joint venture. Output figures are currently unavailable, but Renault does say it'll be "extremely well positioned in terms of fuel consumption," purportedly offering best-in-class mileage. Exact numbers to pin to these claims should be released sometime in the next few months.
We do know the engine was developed through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and is the latest and smallest addition to the engine family on offer from the joint venture.
In the meantime, we can also say with confidence that this three-cylinder gas-sipper will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission, also a new unit from Renault. No word yet on the availability of an automatic gearbox.
With so few details on hand, it's hard not to speculate. While a 0.8-liter fits the bill for a car like the Kwid, I wouldn't be surprised if Renault decided to throw in a diesel unit for even greater mileage, and something turbocharged for more fun. Neither would be all that large or powerful, but if Renault plans on selling the Kwid to a wide variety of buyers, it'll need more than a single engine option.
It's also worth mentioning that the concept Kwid was unveiled with a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Despite the ICE, Renault says the concept was designed with the intention of being an electric-vehicle, with space engineered into the chassis for the requisite batteries and motors required for full electric power. Whether or not any of these features will ever make it to production remains to be seen.
Drivetrain SpecificationsPrices
Here's the real kicker. The Kwid is slated for launch in India with a price tag between 3 and 4 lakhs. One lakh is equivalent to 100,000 rupees, which means at current conversion rates (5/20/15), the Kwid will cost between $4,717 and $6,289. The release date is scheduled for the second half of 2015, during the festival season starting around September. No details regarding trim levels are currently available.
CompetitionMaruti Suzuki Alto 800
Suzuki boasts that the Alto has been the No.1 selling car in India for the last decade. The latest model is tall and boxy, but aesthetically less of a SUV/crossover than the Kwid, with a rounded front fascia, small wheels and low fenders, all of which lend it a much more compact-looking exterior. The interior is finished in either brown or grey, and offers simple packaging and decent utility. The Japanese automaker claims a best-in-class "performance amongst all small cars in India," which equates to 47 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 51 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm, and 53 mpg from its 0.8-liter three-cylinder engine. Prices range between $3,870 and $5,755.
Read the full review on our Indian site here.
Hyundai Eon
Originally brought to the Indian market in October of 2011, the Eon is in line with what you'd expect of a five-door compact hatchback, with an inclined front fascia and bubble-like exterior design. The interior is less high-tech than the Kwid, but has lots of space and utility. Originally offered with a 0.8-liter three-cylinder engine producing 55 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 55 pound-feet at 4,000 rpm, Hyundai recently added a more powerful 1.0-liter three-cylinder with 68 horsepower and 70 pound-feet. Mileage for the smaller powerplant is rated at 50 mpg. Pricing starts at $4,856 and gets up to $6,636.
Read our full review on our Indian site here.
Conclusion
All told, the Kwid is a solid little car. The exterior may not have the same impact as the concept that it's based on, but it's definitely not a burden to look at. Buyers are sure to pick up on the SUV cues, and it's about the right size for urban maneuvering. The interior too presents all the correct pieces, with the digital gauges, large touchscreen, and multimedia infotainment all lending occupants a sense of modernity and high-techiness. Most impressive, however, is the price. At about $5.5K, the Kwid should be well positioned to entice buyers looking for maximum value for their money. While many vehicles that try to do it all end up riding the fence into disaster, the Kwid seems to strike a good balance, offering everything you need and expect for a bargain price tag.
While many vehicles that try to do it all end up riding the fence into disaster, the Kwid seems to strike a good balance, offering everything you need and expect for a bargain price tag.
So far, so good. However, it is troubling that Renault has declined to give us more information regarding the Kwid's drivetrain. Will the automaker add more engine and transmission options? What sort of output should we expect from the 0.8-liter three-cylinder already on the table? What kind of mileage will it offer? These are basic questions that need answering before a truly definitive decision can be made on the Kwid's worth. I expect a full disclosure of details soon.
But beyond the uncertain drivetrain, the Kwid should be seen as the latest from a carmaker that is moving quickly towards a vastly expanded worldwide presence. Not only can this be seen in the markets that now enjoy availability of Renault models, but in the process that goes into the very creation of the car. The concept, for example, was the first to be revealed outside of Europe. The production vehicle's body and chassis were tested in Japan, the body equipment was evaluated in Korea, the endurance tests were handled in France, and the assembly testing in India. Furthermore, development transpired close to its intended market, with supplier sourcing in India raised to 98 percent total.
As international markets expand, Renault feels urgency to expand with them. The automaker is currently active in 125 countries, selling 2.7 million vehicles worldwide in 2014. Around 46 percent of sales now occur outside of Europe, up from 37 percent five years ago. The carmaker has five design centers around the world for product adaptation to meet local requirements.
The Kwid should therefore be seen as part of Renault's earnest intention to increase its share in the Indian market from two percent to five percent by the midterm. With India expected to be the world's third-biggest market by 2020, we could see Renault employ strategies similar to those used for the Kwid in other expanding markets.
For all accounts and purposes, the Kwid meets those criteria. Now all we have to do is wait for the drivetrain specs, but considering the rapidly approaching release date, we shouldn't have to wait long.
LOVE ITSuperb interior amenities and techHighly affordableSUV looks without SUV sizeNew modular platformLEAVE ITConcept was so much coolerLittle info on engine or possible future engine optionsPress Release
As an innovator since 1898, Renault has constantly sought to pioneer new ideas, question conventional thinking and reinvent the way we use cars.
"With Kwid, Renault continues to pursue its strategy of accessible mobility for all to step up its international growth. Using a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform and following the trail blazed by the Duster, the Kwid will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use."
Carlos Ghosn - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Groupe Renault
The Kwid overturns established A-segment design cues thanks to a robust, stylish exterior plus a modern, welcoming interior equipped with features normally associated with models from the next segment up.
This eminently modern newcomer features SUV styling and construction, combining generous cabin space with unprecedented features for its segment, while its compact footprint makes it particularly versatile.
Quality interior appointments include a modern Media-Nav navigation/multimedia system complete with large seven-inch touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Kwid combines the comfort and functional user-friendliness of a family city car with a modular interior and a raft of stowage solutions.
Renault has long showcased its ability to develop unique, innovative vehicles designed to meet the specific needs of its international markets.
With the introduction of the Kwid, the brand has gone a step further down the road of designing attractive, affordable vehicles in the small-car segment.
The Kwid will be launched in India in the second half of 2015 with a price tag of between 3 and 4 lakhs.
1. Unique styling, plus features new to the Kwid's segment
The combination of Kwid's great looks, features more readily associated with higher-end models, a dynamic stance and SUV lines adapted to its compact size make it a unique offering in India's compact city car segment. The brand new 'Outback Bronze' colour adds a warm, energetic touch. The Kwid is an attractive, modern car, with a spacious, comfortable interior that meets the everyday needs of families.
SUV styling that inspires confidence
The Renault Kwid illustrates the 'Explore' petal of Renault's design strategy, a symbol that stands for dynamic performance, robust strength and a taste for adventure. The Kwid's SUV-inspired design is an innovation in its segment.
Its short front and rear overhangs and high ground clearance (180mm) exude an impression of strength and reliability.
At 3.68 meters long and 1.58 meters wide, Kwid is ideally for zipping about in urban traffic, while its high-up driving position provides greater visibility for more relaxed journeys.
"At first glance, the Kwid blends an emotional design with the need for reassurance expressed by customers. Its SUV lines mirror its tough, robust character and underpin its distinctive, modern look."
Laurens van den Acker - Senior Vice President, Corporate Design
The Kwid's upright front end and short front and rear overhangs provide owners with the look associated with SUVs.
The bold, structured grille design highlights the logo and further emphasises the model's SUV credentials, while the head lights incorporate the brand's new lighting signature including a 'C'-shaped chrome trim.
The slightly sculpted sides provide a fluid, dynamic touch, with the rectangular forms of the black wheel arches providing another pointer to the Kwid's SUV breeding, as well as additional protection. The lower door decor underlines the Kwid's robust character. The steeply-raked, forward-positioned windscreen lends a sense of movement and fluidity to the high waistline which rises slightly at the rear.
The large windows ensure good visibility for the driver and play a big part in travelling comfort.
"TheKwid is an entirely new car which offers a lot of surprises both inside and out, including features from the next segment up."
David Durand - Head of Kwid Styling
At the rear, the lower part of the bumper comes with a black trim, another SUV cue. The body-coloured tailgate spoiler adds to the car's dynamic stance.
A modern interior
The Kwid's interior carries over the same confidence-inspiring styling as the exterior. Its distinctive appointments suggest status without neglecting everyday needs.
The horizontal, uncluttered lines of the dashboard convey an impression of width and feature the cues associated with higher-end segments.
The digital instruments and chrome air vent surrounds create a modern, high-quality feel. The dashboard also harmoniously houses the centrally-positioned multimedia system. Designed by Renault Design India, the interior trim is reassuring and status-enhancing.
Features new to the A-mini segment
The Kwid offers a modern, intuitive interior. The piano black centre console comes with a chrome-surround and houses the Media-Nav multimedia/navigation system which comes with a seven-inch (18 cm) display, an unprecedented size for the segment.
The Kwid's connected interior includes technologies that not only meet drivers' needs but also make driving simpler.
The user-friendly Media-Nav system includes the radio and Bluetooth technology for hands-free telephony which contributes to safer driving.
These features correspond to the needs of Indian customers who are looking for status and connected technologies.
Thanks to its specific architecture, the Kwid combines a compact footprint (length: 3.68m) with a spacious interior that sets the standard in its category for all five occupants. The front seats are generously sized and the rear seats are particularly comfortable.
The Kwid has a very spacious boot for a best-in-class load capacity.
2. The Kwid, the latest step in Renault's international growth strategy
The Kwid sees Renault launch a global car, made for easy living and a new way to go motoring. Built on a brand new platform common to Renault and Nissan, the Kwid reaps full benefit from the Alliance's pooled resources and expertise. The new model vehicle is adapted to the specific needs of markets like India and will enable Renault to push ahead with the deployment of its international expansion strategy.
Based on a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform
Founded in 1999, the Renault-Nissan Alliance sold 8.5 million vehicles in almost 200 countries in 2014, consolidating its position as the world's fourth largest vehicle manufacturer.
The Renault Kwid is the first Renault-Nissan Alliance model to use the CMF-A platform.
Thanks to this platform-based approach, the Alliance will be able to go further still in the development of an international, flexible product offering based on component sharing and high-performance architectures.
Like all the Alliance platforms, the CMF-A is extremely flexible. As a result, exterior styling and the powertrain can be varied significantly in order to match the specific requirements and preferences of customers in Renault's international markets like India.
"The CMF-A platform opens up new horizons in terms of our ability to satisfy and even exceed the expectations of customers in countries where demand is currently highest, particularly those customers buying a vehicle for the first time. (...) These influential consumers do not want a car that was initially designed for mature markets before becoming outdated. They aspire - and rightly so - to a modern, robust, elegant car at a price that represents a mini- revolution for such a remarkable vehicle."
Arnaud Deboeuf - Alliance Senior Vice-President of Renault-Nissan BV and Alliance CEO Office
Customer-focused development founded on complementary expertise
Renault went further down the road in terms of its organisation, cost management and delivery times to design and manufacture the Kwid, a model with a global calling.
The process made use of resources and staff in France, Japan, Korea and India.
For example, vehicle testing took advantage of the Alliance's strengths by using different establishments to put the Kwid through its paces: the body and chassis were tested in Japan, body equipment was evaluated in Korea and endurance tests were carried out in France, while India was the backdrop for overall and assembly testing.
The vehicle was developed close to its market. Supplier sourcing in India has been raised to 98 per cent, including 60 per cent in the Chennai region.
The project management team put in place the conditions necessary to develop the Kwid, with the entire team working out of a single location so that the teams tasked with designing, developing and building the car could work together more effectively.
Methodologies throughout were harnessed to ensure the car would be in phase with market needs and meet pricing targets.
A strategy based on expanding international markets
The Renault Group is active in 125 countries and sold 2,712,432 vehicles worldwide in 2014. As a result of this international strategy, Renault now sells 46 per cent of its vehicles outside of Europe, compared with 37 per cent in 2010.
Renault is pursuing its strategy to build vehicles close to its markets with 36 production sites and more than 12,000 points of sale worldwide.
Renault has regional engineering centres based in strategically important countries in order to take account of local needs (flex fuel engines in Brazil, extreme cold in Russia, etc.).
Furthermore, with five design centres around the world (France, Brazil, Romania, Korea and India), the Group is able to take account of local parameters when designing and adapting its products to meet specific requirements, such as colours and materials.
Following the revelation of the KWID Concept, the first Renault concept car to have been unveiled outside of Europe (New Delhi Motor Show in February 2014), Renault is staging the world premiere of the Kwid in India. The Kwid is a strong illustration of Renault's growth ambitions on international markets.
The Kwid mirrors Renault's vision of the motor car... innovative, attractive and affordable. This vision is expressed by the brand's new 'Renault - Passion for Life' tagline.
Renault has been around for more than 115 years, during which time it has pioneered a wealth of innovations intended for use by all motorists.
Today, Renault is continuing to innovate and develop technologies that stay one step ahead of customer requirements, as illustrated by its comprehensive range of electric vehicles.
This clearly-stated commitment reflects Renault's customer-focused approach which seeks to make innovations even more readily available, bringing them within the reach of the greatest number. For Renault, innovating primarily means designing the best products and services possible and making them an affordable reality.
As the inventor of the 'Voitures Vivre' concept, Renault has acknowledged know-how in the city car segment. This expertise is now expressed in the brand's new tagline: 'Renault - Passion for Life'.
Over the years, Renault has created numerous city cars that have reflected the changing face of society through their design and technical specification, introducing technological innovations that have simplified life for their owners, from remote central locking and automatic boot-opening to hands-free cards, etc.
Meanwhile, Renault's expertise as an engine manufacturer in Formula 1 has enabled the Group to develop a wide range of powertrain innovations that have played a part in bringing down the fuel consumption of production models.
Renault is also reputed for conceptual innovations such as sliding rear bench seats, tipping seats and flat floors for everyday versatility.
From the outset, Renault forged a reputation for making 'Voitures Vivre', in other words cars that are innovative, ingenious, versatile and comfortable. Since 2012, these Renault hallmarks have combined with a desire to appeal to customers' emotions, a shift that called for a fresh approach to vehicle design.
"Our new tagline 'Renault - Passion for Life" mirrors the in-depth design transformation pioneered by the latest-generation Clio. More than a signature, it expresses a promise to our customers. Our models are developed with passion by our engineers and designers to make people's lives easier and more enjoyable."
Michael van der Sande - Senior Vice-President, Global Marketing
Renault's ambition is to develop mobility in its international markets.
Like all volume vehicle manufacturers, Renault markets a comprehensive range of vehicles to meet the needs of customers the world over. However, Renault stands apart from other brands for its visionary strategy based on bold objectives and a commitment to mobility for all in its international markets.
Renault has a proven ability to develop vehicles tailored to all markets, with the Duster for example, by designing the practical products customers need.
This approach has also enabled Renault to be competitive by reducing costs, shortening development times and offering more attractive products, while at the same time paying attention to the functions and content that customers want.
Today, Renault and its partner Nissan are going even further by investing in the CMF-A platform which will provide the basis for a new range of modern vehicles targeting the greatest number.
Thanks to a combination of unprecedented features for the segment, attractive SUV styling and intuitive equipment, the Kwid personifies the brand's values as a model designed with passion with the intention of enhancing the lives of its owners.
3. Renault's ambitions in India
India is one of Renault's priority markets, along with Russia, Brazil and China. With a staff of more than 12,000, the Group has a strong local base there enabling it to adapt more effectively to local realities and requirements.
The Kwid is an illustration of Renault's ability to develop vehicles that make everyday life easier by meeting the needs of customers looking for a stylish vehicle that is robust and easy to drive. The Kwid's design and innovative features are poised to play an essential role in Renault's ongoing expansion in India.
A high-potential market
With a vehicle ownership rate currently standing at just 20 per 1,000 inhabitants compared with 105 in China, 300 in Russia and 600 in Europe, the Indian automotive market is expanding rapidly. In 2014, sales increased by 3.1 per cent to reach 2,537,892 vehicles and volumes are expected to be around five million by 2020. As a result, India could become the world's third biggest market by the end of the decade.
Renault's ambition is to increase its share of the Indian market from two per cent to a mid-term five per cent.
More than ever, the emerging young middle classes see mobility as a way to escape the constraints of the public transport system, gain a degree of freedom, display their social success and have a safe means of transport for their family.
In a market where the A2 and A3 segments account for the bulk of sales (the A segment currently accounts for more than 30 per cent of retail sales), a growing number of customers are keen to own larger, higher-end models.
Against a backdrop of rapid urban development, customers in India are looking for more connected, sophisticated cars that are reassuring and designed for family use. The Kwid meets these requirements.
A strong base and a fast-expanding network
Since arriving in India as an independent brand in 2010, Renault has established itself as a highly dynamic player in the automotive sector.
Renault has placed the emphasis on local presence and local content by setting up an operational base for the Alliance, with a production plant in Chennai, along with the Renault-Nissan engineering and purchasing centre and the Technical Business Centre India (RNTBCI).
The design centres in Mumbai and Chennai, and logistics hubs in Pune and Chennai reveal the brand's determination to establish a strong long-term presence in the country. The Mumbai design centre was the first to be opened in India by a foreign vehicle manufacturer in 2007.
Renault has an extensive network of dealers covering over 80 per cent of India, in 120 cities. This fast-expanding network increased from 14 dealers in mid-2011 to 157 at the end of 2014. It is expected to reach 205 dealerships by end-2015.
An increasingly acclaimed brand
In 2010, Renault announced a strategy to bring five vehicles to market in this country.
The Fluence and Koleos were launched in May and September 2011 respectively. Then, in January, July and September 2012, Renault rolled out the Pulse, Duster and Scala.
Renault sold nearly 45,000 vehicles in 2014, compared with 1,500 in 2011. In the space of just a few years, Renault has made greater gains in terms of recognition and visibility than rival brands present in India for 10 years.
Today, Renault ranks as the number one European make and number nine overall in India for vehicle sales. The Lodgy's recent launch in April 2015 is expected to consolidate Renault's growth in the country.
"Thanks to the Duster, Renault has become India's leading European brand. Following the launch of the Lodgy last month, and the warm welcome it received from the press, we are now taking the wraps off the Kwid. We confirm that our medium-term objective is to earn a five percent market share in India, one of the key countries in Renault's international growth strategy. "
Bernard Cambier - Senior Vice President, Chairman of Africa-Middle East-India Region
Renault is more and more acknowledged in India where it has received 40 awards, including 31 for the Duster alone.
Renault won the title of Manufacturer of the Year in 2012.
The Duster won the Indian Car of the Year prize in 2013. Less than a year after its launch, the Duster also received the TNS Voice of Customer prize for the highest rate of customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, the Duster was runner-up in the JD Power Asia Pacific 2013 India rankings on initial quality. The company praised the remarkable quality of the Duster in a highly congested segment, with no fewer than 15 models in contention.
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