Introduction
The Renault Kwid has been updated for this year and while it looks very similar visually, there is a new grille and graphics on the car. Overall, it looks decent and different from everything else in the segment.
On the inside
The outline and layout remains the same as previous models, however, the cabin has got good share of updates. The car has chrome trim on the inside and small detailing that helps improves the interior. That said, the levels of quality isn’t the best and the car now has a digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen. These updates help brighten up the cabin.
The touchscreen is also good and the rear view camera is a segment first feature. However, the camera does get dirty and you end wishing the car had sensors. New features include the incorporation of rear seat belts and even a 12V charger. The car also gets a class-first centre armrest at the rear. However, there is a decent amount of room in the rear and the 300-litre boot is usable.
How does it drive?
The engines on the car have remained unchanged. The Kwid still gets the 0.8 litre or the 1.0 litre motor that makes 54hp and 68hp. That said, the AMT equipped variant has been tweaked slightly. It now gets the creep function which makes the car move slightly forward when you let of the brake pedal. While it is a nice addition, the car was moving forward a bit too slow. Nonetheless, it is a huge improvement over the older model that had an on/off accelerator pedal.
The AMT though, doesn’t respond well to sudden changes to the input. If you do so, you will notice that the car moves abruptly. Another negative is the lack of a manual mode on this car. Starting on incline can be difficult as the creep function doesn’t kick in and you have to use the handbrake like you would on a manual car.
Everywhere else, the Kwid’s strengths remain intact. It has a comfortable ride and the ground clearance is impressive. The hatchback is also light and easy to use in city conditions.
Should I buy one?
The small updates on the Kwid have done their bit to improve it. The new features do help make it a little more appealing and the inclusion of the creep function is good. However, we do wish the car had a manual mode for the gearbox.
Nonetheless, when you consider the equipment levels, the updated Kwid AMT’s price tag that starts at Rs 4.34 lakh is good value for money and worth considering.
