Renault Kwid 1.0-litre launch in the offing

More powerful Kwid 1.0 with AMT is expected to hit the showrooms by end-August or mid-September, 2016.

Renault is all set to introduce the more powerful 1.0-litre version of the popular Kwid hatchback. Showcased at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo earlier this year, the Kwid 1.0 will also come with the option of AMT (automated manual transmission). Renault is expected to launch the Kwid 1.0 by the end of this month, or early in September 2016.

It needs not to be reminded that the Kwid has been a runaway success for the French auto maker ever since the 800cc version of the entry-level hatchback entered the market. Its monthly sales in India are currently averaging out at around 9,500 units per month, which has definitely made life difficult for the competition, especially Maruti Suzuki Alto 800, Hyundai Eon, etc. Now with the Kwid 1.0, Renault will be going up against the likes of the Alto K10 and Eon 1.0. The addition of AMT in the range will also help it eat into the sales of the Alto K10 AGS – the only automatic model in the entry-level hatchback segment.

While details are sparse at the moment, the more powerful Kwid will come powered by a 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre engine developing roughly around 65bhp of power output. The AMT is also understood to be based on the current 800cc model’s 5-speed manual gearbox. Expect the Kwid 1.0 to come equipped with similar features and equipment as the 800cc derivative.

Given how aggressively the Kwid 800 is positioned in the market - it is priced between Rs 2.62 lakh and Rs 3.67 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) – expect Renault to put a tempting price-tag on the more powerful version of the car as well. Also, since the Kwid 1.0-litre will primarily compete against the Alto K10 (priced between Rs 3.25 lakh – Rs 4.15 lakh), its prices should hover around the same ballpark.

Also read: 2015 Renault Kwid Review, First Drive