Remember the futuristic Renault Kwid concept that was unveiled at the New Delhi Auto Expo earlier this year? Well, the study may spawn a production model, as Renault wants to expand its crossover range with a new compact vehicle smaller than the Captur.
The fact that the Kwid study was revealed in India was not random, as Renault said the concept was designed to show its commitment to developing markets. This could mean that the production model may be primarily aimed at these markets.
Although the production vehicle may retain the Kwid name, there will be major differences in terms of styling and size compared to the concept car. According to a report from Auto Express, the length will grow from 3,600mm (141.7in) to around 4,000mm (157.5in), making it 150mm (5.9in) shorter than the Captur.
Styling-wise, the adventure-oriented Kwid concept will be toned down when it reaches the assembly plant, but it is expected to retain the overall look of the front end including the shape of the headlights and grille, as well as the sporty rear. The crossover will also retain the three-door setup but will obviously ditch the scissor doors for conventional ones.
A raised ride height and similar personalization options as on the Renault Captur should also be offered. As for engine options, the Kwid could be offered with a range of small displacement units including 3-cylinder engines from the Twingo, more specifically the 89hp 0.9-liter turbocharged unit and the 69hp 1.0-liter naturally aspirated unit.
The Renault Kwid is rumored to launch in 2016.
By Dan Mihalascu
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