Renault Kiger

The Renault Kiger stood out in the crowded sub-4-metre SUV segment, thanks to its striking design, spacious cabin, and budget-friendly pricing. Renault has given the Kiger a facelift to keep it competitive against newer and feature-packed rivals like Maruti Fronx, Toyota Taisor and Nissan Magnite.

The new model brings styling updates, more features, standard 6-airbag safety, and a new ‘Persona’-based variant structure: Authentic, Evolution, Evolution Plus, Techno and Emotion. With prices ranging between Rs 5.81 lakh to Rs 10.35 lakh (ex-showroom), does the Kiger still hold on to its value-for-money crown? Let’s find out.

The Renault Kiger has always been one of the more stylish small SUVs, and this facelift simply makes it even better. 

The front design is where most of the changes lie. The new 10-slat grille with Renault’s updated 2D logo looks sharper and more premium. A revised bumper with satin chrome accents houses a larger air dam, while the highlight is the all-new LED foglamps that significantly improve both looks and functionality. The DRLs remain in the familiar boomerang shape, lending the Kiger a distinctive signature at night.

In profile, the design remains unchanged. The coupe-like roofline, muscular fenders, and pronounced wheel arches continue to give the Kiger a sporty stance. The facelift introduces a new design for the diamond-cut 16-inch alloy wheels. 

The Kiger also gets functional roof rails, that can carry upto 50 kg.

At the rear, Renault has opted for a clear effect for LED taillamps. The bumper has been redesigned for a cleaner, more modern look. We have thoroughly detailed the exterior design if you want to take a closer look at the facelifted sub-4m SUV.

At 3990mm length and with a generous 205mm ground clearance, the Kiger continues to offer one of the most clean stances in its class. 

The Renault Kiger facelift comes in a palette of seven colours: Oasis Yellow, Shadow Grey, Caspian Blue, Ice Cool White, Moonlight Silver, Stealth Black, and Radiant Red. The Kiger also offers hues like Oasis Yellow, Shadow Grey, Ice Cool White, and Radiant Red, with an option for a contrasting Mystery Black roof on the higher-spec Techno and Emotion trims. I personally like the new Oasis Yellow shade, which looks quite striking when combined with the dual-tone roof and the 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. If you are confused about making a choice on your favourite colour, we have detailed all the colour options and the variant-wise availability of these hues.

Overall, the Kiger’s design is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. It’s a smart update that keeps it looking fresh and young. However, if you want to make it feel more personalised, take a look at the list of all the accessories.

Design & Quality

The cabin sees fewer changes than the exterior, but Renault has introduced a dual-tone white-and-black interior theme, which instantly makes the cabin feel brighter and airier. The dashboard layout remains unchanged: functional and well thought-out. 

Renault has used hard plastics throughout the cabin, which feel scratchy to the touch but are durable. Another update comes in the form of leatherette upholstery, which feels like a big jump up from the older fabric seats. The cabin experience is acceptable for the price, and the fit and finish are consistent, too.

Front Seats

It is easy to get in and out of the car, and the elderly also wouldn’t have an issue.

The front seats are supportive even for larger frames with ample support for the back, shoulders and underthigh. There’s ample headroom for taller occupants, too, and width is unlikely to be a concern. 

The driving position is high-set, giving a good view of the road. The driver's seat is adjustable for height and recline, whereas the steering is adjustable only for reach.

Rear Seats

The second row continues to be one of the Renault Kiger’s biggest strengths, making it a practical choice for families and those who spend a lot of time on the move. There’s generous knee room that ensures even six-footers won’t face an issue, while the wide bench provides enough shoulder space to seat three adults without forcing them to rub elbows. 

The seat base itself is well-cushioned and offers decent under-thigh support, which goes a long way in keeping occupants relaxed during longer journeys. The view outside for the rear occupants is wide enough, making it roomier.

Rear AC vents add to passenger comfort, keeping them comfortable for drives in the hot conditions. To make things easier for you, we have tested its interior space with people of different heights. 

Practicality

Storage remains excellent. Renault claims the Kiger has 29 litres of cabin storage, including dual gloveboxes, deep door bins, and a sizable centre console box. 

The main glovebox compartment is a cooled unit which can keep your favourite cold drink cool on a sunny day. The bottle holders are spacious enough to hold the 1-litre water bottles. You can easily carry a powerbank with its cables under the armrest, whereas the cupholders can hold your morning coffee.

There’s more than enough space for all your personal knick-knacks along with the usual paperwork and cleaning cloths. 

Charging Options

In the charging department, the Kiger is equipped with just the basic options when compared to its segment rivals. It gets a wireless charging pad, a USB Type-A, a 12V socket and one more 12V socket in the rear. There are no USB Type-C charging ports.

Features

One of the biggest pain points about the pre-facelift Kiger was that it felt a little less equipped compared to its rivals. Renault seems to have taken that feedback seriously, and the updated Kiger now gets a far more balanced features package. Actually, it comes with some first-time features for the Kiger nameplate, which is a welcome addition.

The cabin is anchored by an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The unit is intuitive to use, and response times are acceptable.

The driver’s display is taken care of with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that feels modern and easy to read, which shows you all the necessary information like the trip meter, fuel efficiency, distance to empty and more.

It continues to be equipped with expected features, like a wireless phone charger, cruise control, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, drive modes and more. 

The feature additions in the major are LED fog lamps, automatic headlamps, as well as automatic wipers, as well; all of them are welcome additions. Conveniences like push-button start/stop, keyless entry, and an 6-speaker Arkamys-tuned sound system round off the kit. 

The addition of ventilated seats is an important feature. It has 3 fan speed settings. The fan is not noisy on the highest setting and provides adequate cooling.

While the feature additions make the Kiger even more tempting, a sunroof would’ve sealed the deal for a lot of buyers. That said, the Kiger facelift is a package that feels complete and well-rounded for the price point, making it more competitive than ever. 

If there’s one area where the new Kiger makes a significant leap, it’s safety. Renault has equipped the Kiger with six airbags as standard across all trims.

Along with this, you get Electronic Stability Program (ESP), a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ISOFIX child seat mounts, and a multi-view camera, ensuring peace of mind for both city commutes and highway trips. 

These inclusions not only bring the Kiger in line with current safety expectations but also make it a far more reassuring choice for family buyers. 

While the updated model is yet to be tested under the Bharat NCAP protocols, it was tested by GNCAP in 2022, where it scored a solid 4 stars. For safety-conscious buyers, this facelift makes the Kiger a much more convincing proposition, right from the base variant.

One of the Kiger’s biggest practical strengths is its boot space. At 405 litres, in real-world terms, this means the Kiger can easily swallow two to three medium-sized suitcases along with a couple of duffel bags, making it a solid choice for small families heading out on weekend getaways.

The wide boot opening and relatively low loading lip for a car of this size also make it easier to haul heavier luggage without straining your back. Adding to the flexibility is the split-folding rear seat, which allows you to extend the cargo bay when transporting bulkier items like camping gear, strollers, or even a small cycle. 

For buyers who value practicality just as much as style and features, this boot is one of the Kiger’s most underrated highlights.

The Renault Kiger facelift continues with the same set of engines as before, offering a mix of efficiency, everyday usability, and a dash of fun for those who pick the turbo.

But not all the powertrain options are available in all trims (Check out this story for a detailed report on the variant-wise powertrain distribution).

1-litre Petrol

The naturally aspirated 1-litre petrol engine produces 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque, and is offered with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT.

City Performance

In the city, this engine feels most at home. Slotting through gears in the manual is effortless, and the AMT adds convenience for those who spend hours in stop-and-go traffic.

That said, ask for a sudden burst of power, and the limited torque becomes noticeable. Quick overtakes or uphill climbs with a full load require patience and planning. The AMT also shows its limitations here, with jerky shifts that can be felt during hard acceleration.

In city conditions, you can expect fuel efficiency in the range of 12-14 kmpl. Renault claims a fuel efficiency of 19.83 kmpl (as per ARAI).

Highway Performance

On the open road, performance feels adequate but not particularly exciting. It cruises comfortably between 80-100kmph. However, overtakes need to be planned in advance, often requiring a downshift. With a full cabin and luggage, the engine can feel strained if pushed beyond its comfort zone, especially on highways and hilly roads.

Where it makes sense is for buyers with mostly city running who value smoothness, low running costs, and the option of a government approved retro-fitted CNG kit for even greater savings.

1-litre Turbo Petrol

The 1-litre turbo petrol is the more versatile engine option, producing 100PS and 160Nm of torque with the 5-speed manual, or 152Nm when paired with the CVT automatic. 

Refinement levels are acceptable for the class. With the turbo engine, the Kiger feels more like a well-rounded package than just a city SUV.

City Performance

In urban driving, this engine immediately feels livelier than the non-turbo option. Power delivery is stronger post 2000rpm, which makes driving through gaps and merging into fast-moving traffic easier. 

The CVT in particular complements the engine well, delivering smooth, refined acceleration and masking turbo lag effectively. For daily use, it feels polished and easy to live with.

The manual gearbox, while engaging for keen drivers, can get tiresome in stop-and-go traffic since the turbo needs frequent gear changes to stay in its power band. Turbo lag is present at very low speeds, but once the boost kicks in, the engine feels eager.

Fuel efficiency in the city hovers around 10-12 kmpl for the CVT, slightly lower than the manual, but still competitive for a turbocharged motor. 

Highway Performance

Out on the highway, the turbo petrol truly comes into its element. The additional torque gives the Kiger a confident character, making overtakes easier and less stressful. 

The CVT is tuned more for smoothness than sportiness, so sudden overtakes may need heavier throttle inputs, but the overall experience is composed and relaxed. Those who enjoy driving will prefer the manual for its direct feel, though it demands more effort on longer journeys.

At steady cruising speeds, we expect fuel efficiency to be around 14-17kmpl, making it a frugal long-distance option too. Renault claims an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 20.38 kmpl for the turbo-petrol.

The Renault Kiger continues to sit on the CMF-A+ platform, the same architecture that also underpins the Nissan Magnite. This shared foundation gives it a solid balance between everyday comfort and sorted dynamics. The light steering, compact dimensions, and predictable throttle response make it very easy to drive in congested traffic. 

Ride Quality

The suspension setup has clearly been tuned with Indian road conditions in mind. Potholes, speed breakers, and even mildly broken rural stretches are absorbed without much fuss, which makes the Kiger a very family-friendly choice. At low to mid speeds, the cabin remains composed and doesn’t toss passengers around, giving it a mature ride quality for its size. Over long distances, too, it manages to keep fatigue at bay, which is impressive for a compact SUV. There’s no unnecessary vertical movement, which passengers will appreciate. 

Handling

The steering is light, which city drivers will immediately appreciate. Parking in tight spots and weaving through traffic feels effortless, making it ideal for a daily commuter. 

However, enthusiasts might find it a touch too light at higher speeds, where it doesn’t inspire outright sporty confidence. That said, the Kiger redeems itself with good stability at triple-digit speeds and feels predictable around corners. Body roll is present, but well within acceptable limits for this class.

Overall, the Kiger strikes a balance that most buyers will value, easy and effortless in the city, yet stable and confident enough for weekend highway runs.

The Renault Kiger is available in five variants: Authentic, Evolution, Evolution Plus, Techno and Emotion.

Renault Kiger Authentic

• Available with 1-litre NA petrol engine and 5-speed MT only.

• Exterior elements such as LED DRLs and taillamps, 16-inch steel wheels with covers, black ORVMs with turn indicators, silver roof rails and rear spoiler

• Black fabric upholstery with white and black dual-tone dashboard, monochrome semi-digital instrument cluster, front and rear centre armrest and 60:40 split-folding rear seats

• Features such as remote lock/unlock, internally-adjustable ORVMs, all power windows, manual AC and 12V front and rear charging sockets.

• Standard safety tech includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), hill hold assist (HHA), rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), three-point seatbelts for all passengers and traction control.

Renault Kiger Evolution

• Available with 1-litre NA petrol engine, paired to 5-speed MT or 5-speed AMT

• Exterior upgrade with addition of a sharkfin antenna.

• Adds features such as steering-mounted audio controls, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 4-speaker sound system, day/night adjustable IRVM, electrically-adjustable ORVMs and rear AC vents.

• Safety upgraded with rear view camera

Renault Kiger Evolution Plus

• Powered by 1-litre NA petrol with 5-speed MT/5-speed AMT transmissions; 1-litre turbo-petrol also available as MT only.

• Piano black door handles as part of exterior upgrade.

• Interior upgraded with dual-tone white and black upholstery and height-adjustable driver seat

• Gets feature upgrades like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control and keyless entry with push button start/stop.

Renault Kiger Techno

• Available with both 1-litre NA petrol and turbo-petrol engines with manual and automatic transmissions

• Adds LED headlamps, 16-inch stylised steel wheels and silver front and rear skid plates

• Interior gets chrome AC vent surrounds and upper glovebox.

• Adds electrically-folding ORVMs.

• Safety features remain the same as lower variants, except the addition of rear washer and wiper.

Renault Kiger Emotion

• 1-litre NA petrol available with 5-speed MT; 1-litre turbo-petrol can be had with 6-speed MT or CVT automatic transmissions.

• LED fog lamps, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and red brake calipers (turbo only) make the top-spec look nicer

• Cabin experience improved with leatherette seat and steering wheel upholstery, cooled glovebox and piano black centre console accents

• Equipment list includes features like auto headlamps, cruise control, multi-drive modes, remote engine start (turbo only), 6-speaker 3D sound system by ARKAMYS, wireless phone charger, ambient lighting, auto-dimming IRVM and ventilated front seats.

• Adds rear defogger, multi view camera and rain-sensing wipers for safety.

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• The base Authentic trim is ideal for buyers wanting all the necessary safety features, without the fancier equipment. The value-for-money pricing is tempting too.

• For most first time buyers, the Evolution Plus is a great balance between affordability and features. It is also the entry-point for the 1-litre turbo-petrol offering a nicer drive experience.

• The Emotion trim offers all the niceties and style for those wanting to go all out.

The Renault Kiger facelift doesn’t reinvent the formula but refines it where it matters most. With a smarter design, more features, and safety updates (6 airbags standard), it feels like a much more mature product while still keeping prices competitive.

Yes, it still misses out on some feel-good features like a sunroof, and cabin plastics could have been better. But as a practical, stylish, safe, and budget-friendly compact SUV, the Kiger continues to punch above its weight.

For families seeking space, safety, and value, the Renault Kiger facelift is now a stronger option than ever.

Other Options To Consider

Tata Nexon

Reasons To Consider:

• Premium cabin feel

• Well-rounded feature package

• Choice of petrol, diesel, and CNG powertrains

Reasons To Ignore:

• Higher price point

• Rear seat space is limited

Kia Sonet/Hyundai Venue

Reasons To Consider:

• More upmarket overall experience

• Feature-rich cabin

• Availability of a diesel engine

Reasons To Ignore:

• Rear seat space is not as generous

• Comfort is not the best in the segment

• Positioned at a higher price

Maruti Brezza

Reasons To Consider:

• SUV-like upright design

• Comfortable suspension setup

• Top-spec variant priced competitively

Reasons To Ignore:

• Cabin lacks premium appeal

• Misses out on flashy modern features

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Reasons To Consider:

• Spacious rear seat

• Packed with modern features

• Strong safety package

Reasons To Ignore:

• Smaller boot space

• Design may not appeal to everyone

Kia Syros

Reasons To Consider:

• Best rear seat comfort in the segment

• Rich features list

• Option of a diesel engine

Reasons To Ignore:

• Polarising styling

• Most expensive SUV in its class