The Renault Kwid has been one of the most popular entry-level hatchbacks in India since its launch in 2015. Known for its SUV-inspired styling, affordable pricing, and surprisingly modern features for its segment, the Kwid has carved a unique place in the Indian automobile market. Over the years, Renault has updated the Kwid to keep it competitive, offering new technology, safety upgrades, and refreshed styling to meet changing customer expectations.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of the Renault Kwid
The Renault Kwid was introduced in India as an affordable alternative to conventional small hatchbacks like the Maruti Alto and Hyundai Eon (now discontinued). Its SUV-like stance, high ground clearance, and aggressive front design made it stand out in the budget car category.
Over the years, Renault has consistently upgraded the Kwid to make it more attractive, adding features like LED DRLs, touchscreen infotainment, and dual airbags. The latest iteration continues to be a strong contender in the small car market.
Key Highlights of the Renault Kwid (2025):
- SUV-inspired design
- High ground clearance of 184 mm
- Multiple variants to suit different budgets
- Touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fuel-efficient petrol engines
- Affordable maintenance and running costs
2. Exterior Design – Mini SUV Appeal
One of the strongest selling points of the Renault Kwid is its design. Unlike traditional budget hatchbacks, the Kwid has a bold, SUV-inspired look that appeals to younger buyers.
Front Profile
The front fascia features a split headlamp design, with LED daytime running lights (DRLs) on top and the main headlights positioned lower on the bumper. The signature Renault grille with chrome elements gives it a premium touch, even at this price point.
Side Profile
From the side, the Kwid has a compact yet muscular stance, aided by flared wheel arches and stylish dual-tone wheel covers. The black cladding along the sides enhances the SUV-like feel.
Rear Profile
At the back, the Kwid sports C-shaped LED tail lamps and a neat bumper design. A subtle roof spoiler adds a sporty vibe.
Available Colours (2025):
- Ice Cool White
- Fiery Red
- Moonlight Silver
- Zanskar Blue
- Metal Mustard with Black Roof (Dual-Tone)
3. Interior and Comfort Features
Despite being an entry-level car, the Renault Kwid’s cabin feels surprisingly modern. Renault has ensured that even budget-conscious buyers can enjoy a premium feel inside.
Cabin Layout
The dashboard design is simple yet stylish, with gloss-black inserts and chrome accents on higher variants. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is centrally placed, giving the cabin an upscale look.
Seating and Space
The Kwid can comfortably seat four adults. The seats offer decent cushioning and support for city drives. The high driving position gives a better road view, adding to the SUV-like feel.
Storage and Boot Space
One of the best in its class, the Kwid offers a 279-litre boot space, which can be expanded by folding the rear seats.
Notable Features:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Reverse parking camera with guidelines
- Front power windows
- Manual AC with heater
- Dual-tone interiors (on select variants)
4. Engine, Performance & Transmission
The Renault is available with two petrol engine options, catering to both economy-focused and slightly performance-oriented buyers.
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission | Mileage (ARAI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.8L SCe Petrol | 799 cc | 54 PS | 72 Nm | 5-speed manual | ~21.7 km/l |
| 1.0L SCe Petrol | 999 cc | 68 PS | 91 Nm | 5-speed manual / AMT | ~22.3 km/l |
Performance in the City:
The 0.8L engine is best suited for short city commutes, while the 1.0L engine offers better highway performance and is more comfortable with AC usage and passengers onboard.
AMT Convenience:
The Automated Manual Transmission (Easy-R AMT) makes driving in traffic hassle-free, appealing to urban buyers.
5. Ride Quality and Handling
The Kwid’s 184 mm ground clearance is excellent for tackling speed breakers and rough patches, especially in semi-urban and rural areas. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, making it suitable for daily commuting.
However, given its tall-boy design, the car does experience some body roll at higher speeds. It’s best enjoyed at moderate city and highway speeds rather than aggressive cornering.
6. Safety Features
Renault has significantly improved the Kwid’s safety package over the years to comply with stricter norms.
Standard Safety Features Across All Variants:
- Dual airbags (driver and passenger)
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Seat belt reminder
- Speed alert system
Higher Variant Additions:
- Reverse parking camera
- Driver-side seat belt pre-tensioner
- Stronger body shell
While the Kwid meets mandatory safety regulations, it is primarily designed as a city commuter rather than a high-speed highway vehicle.
7. Variants and Pricing (2025)
The Kwid is offered in multiple variants, catering to different budgets.
Variants:
- Kwid RXE (Base)
- Kwid RXL
- Kwid RXT
- Kwid Climber
- Ex-Showroom Price Range (Approx):
- ₹4.7 lakh – ₹6.5 lakh (depending on variant and transmission choice)
8. Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest reasons for the Kwid’s popularity is its fuel efficiency. Both engines deliver excellent mileage, making it a cost-effective choice.
- 0.8L Petrol: ~21.7 km/l
- 1.0L Petrol: ~22.3 km/l (Manual & AMT)
Real-world mileage may vary based on driving style, load, and road conditions, but most owners report around 18–20 km/l in city driving.
9. Renault Kwid vs Rivals
The Kwid competes in the entry-level hatchback segment against cars like:
- Maruti Alto K10
- Maruti S-Presso
- Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (lower variants)
- Tata Tiago (lower variants)
Kwid Advantages:
- SUV-inspired styling
- Feature-rich cabin
- High ground clearance
- Spacious boot
Kwid Disadvantages:
- Build quality is average
- Not the most powerful engine in segment
- Limited rear seat space for three adults
10. Maintenance and Ownership Costs
Renault has worked to ensure low maintenance costs for the Kwid, making it ideal for first-time buyers. The service intervals are reasonable, and parts are competitively priced.Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 (depending on usage)
Additionally, Renault offers extended warranty packages for peace of mind.
11. Pros & Cons of Renault Kwid
Pros:
- Attractive SUV-inspired design
- Affordable pricing
- Feature-rich for the segment
- High ground clearance
- Large boot space
- Low maintenance cost
Cons:
- Average build quality
- Not ideal for high-speed cruising
- Narrow cabin for three adults in the rear
12. Final Verdict – Should You Buy the Renault Kwid?
If you’re looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient, and affordable small car with modern features, the Renault Kwid is an excellent option. It is especially suited for:
- First-time car buyers
- City commuters
- Budget-conscious families
- Students and young professionals
The Kwid offers more style and features than most competitors in its price range. While it may not be the most powerful or the safest car in the market, it delivers outstanding value for money.