Renault’s New Kiger Small Crossover Is Quite A Looker

Renault has expanded its reach in India with the Kiger, a new sub-compact crossover, but unlike most small cars made for the Asian country, it will be marketed internationally in a second phase.

Previewed by the Kiger Concept last year, it is just under 4 meters long (157.5 in) riding on a 2,500 mm (98.4 in) long wheelbase, which places it between the Kwid and Triber in the company’s local lineup.

If there’s one thing that stands out on the Kiger, that’s the bold exterior design. With an athletic look, defined by muscular fenders and hood, sleek headlights flanking the typical Renault grille, C-shaped taillights and slightly arched roofline that are complemented by plastic cladding on the lower parts of the body, the Kiger is one of the best looking small crossovers out there.

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The cockpit layout and design is modern but doesn’t stand out as much, with many elements shared with other Renaults and Dacias. The Kiger sports a multi-function steering wheel, 8-inch floating-style touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch customizable TFT cluster. Available amenities include support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless charging pad, automatic air-conditioning with a PM2.5 Clean Air Filter, a premium sound system, and keyless entry and go. At 405 liters (14.3 cu-ft), the boot capacity is said to be the best in the segment, and it can be extended to 879 liters (31 cu-ft) with the second-row folded down.

Based on Renault’s CMFA+ platform, shared with the Triber, the 2021 Kiger will launch with a choice of two powertrains. The naturally aspirated 1.0-liter engine produces 72 PS (71 HP / 53 kW) and 96 Nm (71 lb-ft) of torque, and is available with a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The turbocharged 1.0-liter unit, featured on the Clio and Captur in Europe, produces 100 PS (99 HP / 74 kW) and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft), and comes mated to a five-speed manual transmission, while a CVT will launch later on.