Renault had introduced the new Duster Easy-R AMT recently in the Indian market. In an attempt to boost sales for the Lodgy MPV, it is believed that the company will also introduce the Easy-R AMT system in its Lodgy MPV sometime soon. The new Lodgy may feature a six-speed ZF sourced Easy-R AMT. This model will be on sale sometime by early second half this year.
The MPV segment in India has by far and large ruled by Maruti’s Ertiga and Toyota’s Innova. Though a good option, the Renault Lodgy failed to generate sufficient sales numbers for the automaker from the Indian market. The new Lodgy will continue to be powered by a 1.5-litre dCi engine, however the Easy-R AMT option would only be offered on the 108bhp generating trim while the 83bhp variant may continue to be offered with a five-speed manual transmission.
Only the seven-seater Lodgy variant will be offered in AMT option. It is anticipated that the AMT transmission variant might return a fuel efficiency figure of about 21 kmpl. Speaking on the design and style aspect, the new Lodgy might not come with major upgrades. However, we can expect new badging and minor cosmetic upgrades.
The Renault Lodgy Easy-R AMT might cost an additional Rs 40,000 - 50,000. Post launch, it might emerge as a strong rival against the Maruti’s Ertiga MPV. Until now, only the Ertiga MPV has been offered with automatic transmission in diesel and with the Lodgy Easy-R AMT due for launch soon, customers indeed have a new option to choose from.
