Sunday, 28 May 2023
Updated Renault Captur SUV Offers An Enticing Package
Tuesday, 25 April 2023
First Time Driving The Renault Kiger - What You’re Wondering
The Renault Kiger has been around for over a year now, and it quickly crossed the 50,000 production milestone at their Chennai facility. To celebrate this milestone, we’ll tell you everything you want to know about the new Kiger SUV.
In India, part of the update is the new Metal Mustard exterior paint with a blacked-out roof. And for this 50,000 units production milestone, Renault has also introduced a handsome-looking Stealth Black paint scheme. There’s also a new chrome-finished tailgate insert and stylish-looking skid plate at the front and the subtle yet intriguing Turbo decal on the side. Also, the diamond-cut alloy wheels now have red finished hub caps making them stand out.What’s new inside and what's on the feature list
Getting inside, the refreshed Kiger flaunts the new red accents running across the dashboard, providing a nice flavour to the all-black cabin. Apart from that, the latest Kiger models also have this quilted emboss finish on the seats. Adding to the sportiness are contrast red stitches on the seats, around the gear lever, and on the steering wheel. Also part of the update is a wireless charger placed down the centre console. It also gets cruise control now. Moreover, the updated Kiger comes with a PM2.5 air filter as standard across the range.
The Kiger continues to offer clever storage options all around the cabin – 29 litres, to be exact. Even the boot capacity of 405 litres is best-in-segment, and it can be extended up to 879 litres by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats. Then, the all-digital driver’s display is configurable depending on the driving mode you are in. In the Eco, you get a green screen, in Normal it is blue, and in Sport mode, it’s red with more information on display, like bhp and Nm bars, and a G-metre as well.
As for the seats, they are fairly comfortable with good bolster support and you get height adjustment as well. Even space at the back is more than ample for two. It has sufficient leg room with a seating position set for my height, it's big on headroom as well, thanks to the tall roof and the flat floor further helps passengers in sitting quite comfortably.
What we have here is the top-spec, loaded to the gills, RXZ version. You get all the modern-day useful features that you’d expect from this segment. This includes LED DRLs and headlamps, LED tail lights, a stylish roof-mounted spoiler, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, functional roof rails, blacked-out door handles, and a shark-fin antenna.
Inside the chrome and piano-black finished cabin, you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel, contrast red stitches on upholstery, cruise control, wireless charger, a digital driver’s display with drive mode skins, 3D surround Arkamys sound system with six speakers, automatic AC, rear defogger, electric folding ORVMs, dual glove box with the lower one being a cooled glove box, ambient lighting, rear AC vents, steering mounted controls, height adjustable driver’s seat, rear wipers, push-button start with smartcard key, rear armrest with cup holders, and split seats. You also get an eight-inch floating touchscreen with USB connectivity and a rearview camera.
As for safety, there are four airbags in the RXZ trim with dual front airbags as standard. Then, there are rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, speed-sensing door locks, and ISOFIX as well. And if you are wondering, the Renault Kiger has already bagged four stars in the Global NCAP crash tests.
What’s it like to drive?
The updated Kiger continues to be offered with two engine options. The 1.0-litre non-turbo version makes 53 kW and 96Nm. It's either available with a five-speed manual or an AMT. What we are driving is the 1.0-litre turbocharged engine which has an output of 74 kW. It’s available with a manual which has 160Nm, while the automatic is a CVT with a torque figure of 152Nm.
No changes have been made to the engine or gearbox for this update. So, the three-cylinder engine in the Kiger continues to feel refined, sans those irksome vibrations associated with a three-pot engine. The power delivery is smooth and predictable, even the turbo lag is nicely compensated by the refined and user-friendly CVT transmission. No to mention, the bothersome rubber band effect of the usual CVT is fairly absent here.
You also get three driving modes, where the performance is subdued to extract more fuel efficiency in the Eco mode. Meanwhile, throttle response is slightly sharper in Sport. Hence, Normal mode would do just fine for your everyday need. No changes to steering and suspension either, so the Kiger is still one happy runabout, be it in the city, or out on the highway.
How does it compare and what’s the price?
With this update, the new Kiger has refreshed its appeal by offering more in an already well-rounded package. It looks handsome, has loads of features, is safe and equally good to drive with multiple powertrain choices. And it’s even priced competitively than other sub-four metre SUVs.
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Review shared from https://devotedtorenaultautomobiles.weebly.com/blog/first-time-driving-the-renault-kiger-what-youre-wondering
Sunday, 12 March 2023
Renault Clio vs VW Polo TSI - The Compact Crossover Comparison
The hatchback segment is one that has been hotly contested for as long as we can remember. Two of the most popular options, the locally built Volkswagen Polo and the Renault Clio, have been sitting at the top of the list since they were introduced. The Clio recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and, in that time, it has, like the Polo, carved out a decent share of the market. Both cars have been updated and seem to offer much in terms of value. The below comparison of the Polo and Clio price, specs, features and performance sees how they stack up against each other.
Design:
I love how different both cars approach design in their own unique way. In terms of visual appeal, the Clio is definitely the most attractive of the two. The Polo seems to be more subtle in its design approach, more clinical, and less flamboyant and that’s perfectly okay. What I do like is the LED light elements on both cars. The Clio features these large C-shaped lights whereas the Polo has adopted an LED light bar that runs across the grille. Both look extremely eye-catching when the sun goes down.
The rear of both cars also adopts LED technology within the light clusters. The Polo features the new VW badge and the new placement of the POLO designation just under it. The Clio features a slightly curved roofline which gives it a sleek silhouette. The Polo, however, stays true to form. Again, both look good in their own right but the Clio embodies that iconic French flair in its design, making it a bit more visually entertaining than the Polo.
Interior:
This is where drivers will be spending most of their time so the interior is very important. Both cars' interiors have come a long way since I started interacting with the Clio and Polo a few years ago. Cheap, bland and basic are not words associated with either car when it comes to the interior composition.
The Polo offers an ergonomically designed facia complete with a now-standard digital instrument cluster. I also rather enjoyed the 8.0-inch infotainment system which offers wireless app connection like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The latest Clio also features an updated interior complete with a new 9.3” Easy Link multimedia touch screen that draws your eye. It also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but it’s, unfortunately, not wireless.
The interior trim is decent, as are the comfort levels of the seats. The Clio and Polo offer decent interior space with ample storage space. The Polo offers a luggage capacity of around 351 litres. The Clio, however, offers around 40 litres more than that though at 391. I also prefer Clio’s climate controls which are dials with a digital element compared to the Polo’s more analogue offering. It is also worth mentioning that Volkswagen offers only USB-C ports, so make sure that you have an adapter.
Under the bonnet:
The Volkswagen and the Renault make use of a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged motor. I found both motors to be equally eager and both cars made use of a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Polo seen here develops around 85kW and 200Nm of torque while the Clio offers up to 74kW and 160Nm of torque. This deficiency can be felt when pulling away as the Clio tends to suffer more from turbo-lag than the Polo. Once both are up to speed they tend to cruise rather decently. In-gear acceleration is good and the Clio even offers various driving modes.
One downside to the Renault Clio is that it’s only available in five-speed manual form, whereas Polo buyers can choose between a manual and (as per our test car) a DSG dual-clutch auto.
When it comes to fuel consumption, which is an important consideration these days, you will be happy to know that the Polo has a claimed consumption of around 5.4l/100km. The Clio claims 5.7l/100km. We averaged around 6.5l/100km with both vehicles during our time. I guess that fuel consumption comes down to many external factors such as your specific driving style, traffic and how far you’re going.
Verdict
Although the cars are equally impressive, there is just something about the Volkswagen Polo that appeals to us just a bit more. We guess it’s the bit more power and the “it feels like home” when one climbs into the driver's seat. The Clio is great and offers its own charm. Truth be told, we would recommend looking at both.
It is worth mentioning that the Renault Clio price is R349 900 in top-spec form which means you’re getting a lot of car for the money. The mid-spec 85kW DSG Polo Life costs R374 500, although you can have the 70kW manual model for R353 600.
Check out the Renault Clio model lineup pricing.
The Polo does have a better service plan, though, at three years or 45 000km versus the Clio’s two-year/30 000 plan, although the French contender does fight back with a longer warranty, at 5 years/150 000km versus three-years/120 000km.
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Comparison compiled by and shared on https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/
Monday, 27 February 2023
Current Renault Duster Is The Perfect City SUV
This segment is alive with a host of rivals, including the Ford EcoSport, Haval Jolion, Kia Seltos, but if you want a crossover that can fit an average family and their luggage in comfort, and hang out with proper off-roaders, the 2023 Renault Duster with all-four traction is it.
But it’s not the impressive 4WD version on the test. This is the 1.5dCi Intens, a front-wheel drive-only range-topper crammed with the latest tech. For starters, you don’t need to lock or unlock the vehicle using its card key to enter. You simply approach and “click” all doors are unlocked; a walk away and another ‘click’ signals full automatic lock-up.
It’s got new design 17-inch wheels, silver roof rails and prominent front and rear skid plates alongside updated front and rear LED lights and daytime running lights. The new look avoids the dainty, city fashionista look so prevalent in the segment and refines the tough-cookie style, which speaks volumes about its go-anywhere capabilities.
The interior is touched up with a modern-looking dashboard and new fabrics adorn the seats. The rear seats are split-foldable to create more loading space and there are numerous storage nooks around the dash to hide oddments from prying eyes. New technology includes a colourful 8-inch multimedia display that also plugs into mobile device features through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice commands are also possible.
All 2023 Renault Duster models are powered by a 1.5l four-cylinder turbo-diesel. In this Intens guise, it kicks out 80kW and 250Nm and powers the front wheels only via a six-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD model gets an extra 10Nm.
It’s an eager unit that fires off the Duster from a standstill to 100km/h in 11.9 seconds and maintains a spirited boil to reach a top speed of 169km/h. It has great fuel economy too, returning an exceptional 5.6l/100km average on the test, making it a good choice if you rack up mileage, and it’s assisted by conveniences such as a speed limiter and cruise control.
The body is well-controlled at higher speeds and it never felt hampered by its front-drive configuration to corner fast and surely. You also have no fear of potholes, manholes or speed humps in city surroundings, thanks to a higher-than-average ground clearance.
It’s the same results of poise and stability when driven on gravel roads; you can confidently wander off into the wilderness better than most crossovers because it has the same chunky set of wheels and articulation and the same 30-degree approach/34 departure angled bumpers as the 4WD model, and it clears the same obstacles thanks to a similar 210mm ride height
The 10Nm torque deficit shouldn’t disadvantage the Intens’ ability to clamber up some average steep gradients, but you need to curb your enthusiasm before tackling some obstacles. Slippery surfaces and deep ditches are strictly for the 4WD model.
The Duster Zen 4WD model is my pick, and further supporting my view is that its traction system is part-time, meaning it’s a front-wheel drive under normal circumstances, and you call on the all-wheel traction only when the need arises. While it has a marginal fuel consumption penalty, it sells for R8,000 less than the front-wheel drive Intens.
But if you live in the city and have the occasional need for gravel driving, the Duster Intens is perfectly good and acceptable in that respect. You gain an automatic gearbox (4WD is manual only), painted skid-plates, keyless entry and lumbar support, all the things required to navigate the concrete jungles comfortably.
Renault Duster 1.5dCi Intens technical specifications
ENGINE:
- Type: Four-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Capacity: 1.5l
- Power: 80kW
- Torque: 250Nm
TRANSMISSION: Type: Six-speed auto
DRIVETRAIN: Front-wheel drive
PERFORMANCE:
- Top speed: 169km/h
- 0-100km/h: 11.9 sec
- Fuel Consumption: 4.8l/100km (claimed), 5.6l/100km (as tested)
- Emissions: 189g/km
STANDARD FEATURES:
Electric windows, LED daytime driving running lights, multifunction steering-wheel controls, electric mirrors, keyless entry, Bluetooth, USB port, cloth upholstery, lumbar support, climate control, cruise control, drive modes, park distance control, rear blind-spot assist, ABS, stability control, brake assist, and four airbags
COST:
- Warranty: Five years/150,000km
- Service plan: Three years/Unlimited mileage
- Price: R404,999
VERDICT: A practical family crossover
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Review shared by https://bonjourrenault.wordpress.com/2023/02/27/current-renault-duster-is-the-perfect-city-suv/
Thursday, 22 December 2022
Renault Koleos Review Results: An Attractive Package
VERDICT
Review shared by https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-koleos-review-results-an-attractive-package
Wednesday, 23 November 2022
All About The Renault Captur’s Interior Design And Technology
The second-generation Renault Captur has kerb appeal in spades, with the deeply scalloped sides and floating roof

Infotainment and connectivity
The Captur’s ‘Smart Cockpit’ layout features a 7-inch multimedia touch screen, standard on Play and Iconic models, while S Edition versions get a 9.3-inch portrait format. Both give access to Renault’s Easy Link connected system. Charging times, heating and ventilation (while the car is plugged in) can be scheduled via the Easy Link touchscreen, or via the MY Renault app.
Connected services and apps, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, are provided as standard across the range. The car’s 4G connectivity supports services such as an emergency call function that activates automatically in the event of an accident. It also means that the platform is always up to date, thanks to automatic updates from the likes of Google, TomTom and Coyote.
Interior focus
Soft-touch plastics and satin finishes are used throughout, while the front seats have a new architecture. The steering wheel has a smaller diameter allowing an improved view of the instrument display, as well as re-designed backlit controls add to the ambience.
One of the highlights of the interior is the new ‘flying console’ available as part of the optional Comfort Pack for S Edition models. This elevated centre console incorporates the ‘E-Shifter’ gear selector on top, additional storage space and a wireless phone charger below.
Other creature comforts and convenience features (depending on the trim level) include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear privacy glass, high-beam assist, and an ambient lighting pack. The latter allows drivers to choose from eight different LED colours that provide a calming glow. A reconfigurable instrument cluster is available as an option for S Edition models. It allows the driver to choose their preferred set-up, including turn-by-turn navigation instructions displayed directly in front of them. When combined with the 9.3-inch infotainment display it gives the Captur one of the largest screen combinations in its class.
Size-wise, the overall length of the car has increased by 110mm, providing a spot with more room for occupants and their luggage. Rear legroom has been boosted by 17mm, thanks in part to re-designed front seats that also benefit from slimmer, comma-shaped headrests to improve visibility.
The 60/40 rear seatbacks can fold down completely to give an almost completely flat load floor of 1.57m – 110mm more than in the previous Captur. In addition, a movable floor allows the boot space to be configured either for maximum space or to create a flat load entrance with hidden storage beneath the floor. Boot capacity has been boosted by 81 litres to 536 litres, thanks to a sliding rear bench trading rear legroom for luggage space.
The front door storage compartments can each accommodate a 1.5-litre water bottle. A sliding front centre armrest conceals a fairly deep storage area. The glove box has an unusual pull-out tray-like design instead of a hinged door. There are also two cupholders in the front console area plus two in the back, integrated into the central armrest.
Some sound ideas
Compared with the audio system in the previous Captur, there are now nine speakers rather than seven, with two additional tweeters in the rear doors. There’s also a new compact subwoofer – the ‘Fresh Air Speaker’ (FCA). Fitted to a Renault for the first time, the FCA offers bass frequencies without the need for a conventional large enclosure. Instead, the sound is channelled to the passenger compartment through a patented duct system built into the car’s structure.
Integrated into the side of the boot is the optional Bose audio system, causing no reduction in load space. Occupants can tailor the audio experience to their tastes, switching from a neutral, studio-like setting to a more immersive sound. In addition, Dynamic Speed Compensation automatically adjusts volume and equalisation on the move, hence a seamless listening experience without the driver needing to constantly make adjustments.
Advanced driver assistance systems
In the ADAS department, the Captur incorporates a suite of technologies, including adaptive cruise control, traffic and motorway assistance, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and traffic sign recognition. In addition, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and a 360-degree camera with a bird’s eye view all help when reversing into some tight spaces.
On balance, the Captur looks great with plenty of interior charm. It also comes with a generous list of standard equipment, clever safety technology and an intuitive infotainment system. The upmarket textiles cover the door-card inserts, headliner, windscreen pillars and dashboard inlay. Most of the surfaces are soft to the touch with all the usual scratchy plastics hidden at ankle level. The seats not only look good but are comfy for short distances too. The sliding rear seat bench also helps this SUV stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Check out the Renault Captur’s specs too.
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Info shared by https://www.just-auto.com/
Sunday, 9 October 2022
New Renault Clio Is In SA - What Does It Have To Offer?
The new Renault Clio was launched in South Africa February 2022 and while the fifth-generation model doesn’t look radically different on the outside, it is totally new beneath the skin as it now sits on the updated CMF-B platform.
Tuesday, 13 September 2022
2022 Renault Kwid versus Suzuki Alto - Interior Comparison
Alto vs Renault Kwid - two major hatchbacks make up the entry-level hatchback class, one of which is more than 20 years old. The Suzuki Alto and the Renault Kwid, which have fuel-efficient engines, automated gearboxes, and a plethora of additional features in the smallest possible packages, are the two most competitive models.
Sales data reveals that Suzuki sells more Altos than Renault, but with the new Alto due to be introduced in India, the rivalry will be much more fierce. In order to examine how the 2022 Renault Kwid and Suzuki Alto compare, let’s look at their designs, measurements, and interior features.
Renault Kwid Design and Dimension vs Alto
The third-generation Suzuki Alto features an entirely new design and, for the first time, is built on the HEARTECT platform that also supports the Baleno, Ertiga, XL-6, and other Maruti Suzuki cars. The Alto receives a significant design makeover, according to spy photos so far, and borrows features from the recently released Celerio.
The 2022 Alto has updated bumpers, grilles, and headlights, and its total proportions are slightly larger than those of the current generation, giving it a roomier interior than the previous model.
The latest Kwid has a lofty posture and a more SUV-like styling. The Kwid’s squared wheel arches, high-set front end, and DRLs above the headlights give the hatchback a commanding stance on the road. The Kwid has a wheelbase of 2,422mm and measures 3,731mm in length, 1,579mm in width, and 1,474mm in height. When it comes to ground clearance, the Kwid matches SUVs at 184mm.
Alto vs Renault Kwid: Exterior and interior features
Among other things, the new Suzuki Alto will have steel wheels, LED DRLs and headlights, and LED taillights. The interior of the new Alto has been updated, and it now includes a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, manual air conditioning, power windows, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, a seatbelt reminder, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, navigation, a reverse camera and sensors, a digital instrument cluster, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and more distinguish the Renault Kwid from the competition.
Alto vs Renault Kwid: Engine specifications
Both cars will come with a choice between a smaller 800cc petrol engine and a larger 1.0-litre engine. Additionally, manual and AMT gearbox options will be available for the 2022 Suzuki Alto and Renault Kwid. The new 1.0-litre engine that now drives the S-Presso will be added to the 2022 Alto in addition to the smaller gasoline engine it already has.
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Comparison compiled by DNP India
Tuesday, 16 August 2022
Renault Pushes Boundaries In Automotive Industry
Now, it has been learnt that Renault is developing a few more vehicles for the automotive market. The vehicles will be slotted in different price ranges and according to Renault, these new vehicles will carve out new segments. First up, the French automaker launched a new compact SUV - the Kiger. This SUV, based on the CMF-A platform, is a bit smaller than other compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon and Maruti Vitara Brezza.
The Renault Automotive company is also working on an electric version of the Kwid and it has been codenamed XBA-EV. The electric car will feature heavily localised components aiming for a competitive price in the market. Renault is also working on a new compact sedan which is likely to be based on the CMF-A platform as well.
This compact sedan will undercut the likes of the Maruti Dzire. The sedan has been codenamed LBA and it might be showcased at the 2022 Auto Expo. While the Kwid and Triber make use of a 1.0-litre, 3-cyl, NA petrol engine right now, you can expect Renault to introduce a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine for the HBC and eventually for the Triber too. The compact sedan could get a 1.0-litre engine too, but it remains to be seen whether Renault uses the turbo unit or not.
From https://devotedtorenaultautomobiles.weebly.com/blog/renault-pushes-boundaries-in-automotive-industry
Monday, 25 July 2022
Renault SA - 2022 And Beyond
Renault is a brand that has bided its time in South Africa through good and bad days. The French government-controlled automaker has seen a surge in popularity over the past decade reinvigorating a previously tarnished track record with reliable products and dealer efficacy. With an increasing portfolio and growing popularity in South Africa, this is what’s happened in 2022 and what to expect from the established brand and Renault Johannesburg dealerships.
While Renault may have been selling cars to our local market from as early as the 1950s, there has never been a time when their lineup has been so conclusive and assorted. From frugal little hatches to spacious SUVs, Renault intends to appeal to every potential family-orientated segment in Johannesburg, Cape Town and everywhere in between, it can.
While the first half of the year has been a busy time for the French conglomerate in South Africa, two cars which were launched arrived considerably later than intended. The Clio 5 and updated Captur were earmarked for launch sometime in 2020 but secondary delays caused by Covid-19 have ruffled delivery dates into certain markets such as ours. Nonetheless, their bestselling model of all time; the Clio has undergone a transformation yet remains vaguely familiar to its predecessor. The new Clio V was launched earlier this year and the updated Captur is expected shortly in Q2.
While we are awaiting confirmed dates from Renault for their activities in the second half of 2022, what we can expect from their commitment is the Kwid MY22, Triber MY22 and Trafic MY22. The real exciting news from the stalwart French brand will only arrive in 2023 when the Duster-based Oroch single cab is expected to be launched into our market and into the hotly contested compact bakkie segment.
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Sourced from https://www.carmag.co.za/


