Renault Kiger: First Drive experience

The Renault Kiger packs all the basics, a few frills, and killer looks at an almost unbelievable price point. It also competes in one of the most hotly contested segments in the market. So the Kiger sure has its work cut out. But from our experience of having driven it, we think it certainly has what it takes to make an impact. Here are five things that surprised us when we first drove the Kiger in Goa. 

Looks Proper SUV Or Bordering On Hatch?

There’s no denying that Renault designers have created a stunning package. But its proportions and similarity to the Kwid make the Kiger look like a hatchback from some angles. Especially if you are approaching it from behind without any other car nearby for a size reference. It’s only when you see it next to another vehicle (or inside a parking lot when it’s stationary) that it looks like an SUV. 

That said, there are quite a few things going on for the Kiger, including its cool LED headlamps and standard LED taillamps, 16-inch diamond-cut alloys, and a range of exterior packs upping its style quotient. 

Inside As Good As The Outside?

While the exterior is impressively styled as expected, the Kiger’s cabin design isn't quite as inspiring. But don’t get us wrong, we’re talking of only the styling. There is everything you need in here; there are a lot of nice touches like that brilliantly styled driver’s info display and the little LED lights on the air-con controls. But we would have liked the use of more plastic or fabric on the various touchpoints.

Plush Ride

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Renault has a knack of nailing ride quality to match typical Indian conditions. The Kiger was no different. We loved how it handled the roads in and around Goa. Want to know more about how it rides? Head to our first-drive report here.

Small Engine = Slow?

Only two 1.0-litre three-cylinder engines to choose from here. But one of those is boosted by a turbo (giving it a healthy 100PS and 160Nm) paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. We only managed to drive the turbo-manual combination, and it was far from slow. To spice things up a little, you have three drive modes (Sport, Normal, and Eco) on offer. 

How does this all add to the Kiger experience? Click here to find out.

“Biggest” Boot?

Renault is claiming that the Kiger’s 405-litre boot is one of the most spacious ones in the market. Its platform mate, the Nissan Magnite, has a 336-litre boot, which made us wonder how Renault managed to achieve this feat! So, we did our luggage test, and the results were pretty surprising. Click here to read our CarDekho space and practicality test of the Renault Kiger.