Renault Kwid 1.0-litre and AMT variants coming before Diwali

Renault’s entry level model in India, Kwid has accumulated an impressive response from the Indian masses. To make things more interesting, the company had showcased the 1.0-litre and AMT variant at the 2016 Auto Expo event that concluded earlier this year. Now, Sumit Sawhney, Head, Renault India, has been quoted as saying that both the 1.0-litre and AMT equipped Kwid variants will be launched ahead of Diwali this year.    

The Kwid 1.0-litre variant will not get major cosmetic upgrades except for the SCe badging that was seen during the Expo and on the test mules. The 1.0-litre Kwid which will come mated to a five speed manual transmission puts out around 67bhp of max power. The AMT will also come with the 1.0-litre engine. This could likely emerge as a strong competitor to the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 and the recently launched Tata Tiago. The former also comes with the option of an AMT ‘box.

The existing 800cc engine variant will continue as is and will come with a manual transmission. The new 1.0-litre and AMT Kwid variants will also get digital instrumentation and touchscreen infotainment system. As for safety, unlike the current model that only offers optional driver side airbags, the upcoming variants are likely to come with dual front airbags and ABS with EBD system as well.