The Micro SUV

They say the slow and steady wins the race! Well, Renault is surely on its way towards winning the race in its slow and steady pace. Fortunately, Renault came out to be the first company that recognized the demands of we Indians that in the end, all it matters is "Kitna Deti Hai? (Fuel Efficiency)" and along with that that Indians love to be seated in a big car. Renault took the market by storm with Duster earlier and now it's on the path to give a blow to the entry-level hatchback market. Renault intelligently has been able to provide Good Looks, Stylish Design, Comfortable Drive, Compact Vehicle with Grand Image, Amazing Ground Clearance and Good Fuel Efficiency in one package in the name and face of Renault Kwid. All that at an extremely affordable price. Powered by the 800CC or 0.8-litre petrol engine, driving Kwid around the city is peppy and jerk-free. However with Air-Conditioner on, the engine demands a heavy foot on the accelerator to make the car move from stationary. The paddles are easy and the gear knob is placed at a very comfortable position. Being big on size, it's a fun to drive the car on the highway as well. The car equally pleases you during your drive irrespective of the fact that you are driving in the city or out for a drive on the highway. The 180 mm ground clearance seats you well above the ground and the suspension system takes well to the pits and pots on the road. Also, the gap between the tyres and the body is maintained well to provide an ease of driving while maneuvering bumpy roads and keep the body safe from getting damaged. Where Kwid surprises the most, is the room it provides on the inside. The car is comfortable for all passengers and the boot space would easily carry your luggage for your weekend trips with friends and family. The inner glove compartments, utility space under the gear knob and door pockets are other spaces of convenient storage. The initial fuel efficiency falls somewhere between 16.0-17.0 kmpl in the city which shall boost to around 20.0-22.0 kmpl in the city ones the engine revs up some 3k-4k kms. Though fuel efficiency highly depends on the driving style but a decent drive would return you a pocket friendly fuel efficiency. Major part where Renault excels out among competition is the styling of the car. The car looks like a not so mini miniature of some bulky beastly loaded SUV. The looks of the car are impressive. Load the standard delivered vehicle with some accessories and some touch of chrome to enhance the looks of this mini beast. Renault Kwid is in direct competition with Maruti Suzuki Alto and Hyundai Eon. On one hand, Maruti is one brand that is loved and preferred by any Indian family when it comes to making a no nonsense choice. Hyundai on the other hand is equipped with cosmetic features. Where Kwid gets an edge over the competitors is the looks and handling convenience. The Kwid is a delight to drive in comparison to the other two. Where it may lack is After Sales and Services. In terms of availability of Service Centres, Renault is still in the expansion stage where Maruti stands tall with its vast network. However, the Renault Kwid is for sure the best choice and best product at a pocket-friendly price in the entry-level hatchback market. Also, the fresh feel that Kwid carries is the cherry on the cake.