Positioned in the extremely competitive compact crossover segment, the updated Renault Kiger brings design tweaks, new features, and a much-needed improvement in refinement. But the key question is, has Renault India addressed the shortcomings of the Kiger to make it a stronger contender?
At first glance, the changes on the outside might seem minimal, but they do add up to something. The Kiger now looks sharper, and especially in the new yellow colour, quite a bit nicer than before. New bits include a revised front grille with a larger Renault logo, smoked LED tail lamps, and a redesigned bumper. New alloy wheel design and two fresh colours, Oasis Yellow and Shadow Grey, round up the exterior changes. These upgrades may not be dramatic, but they give the Kiger a more substantial appearance.
The biggest update inside comes in the form of additional features. The most expensive version now offer ventilated front seats and a surround-view camera system, features that are uncommon for Rs. 10 lakh. The cabin also gets leatherette upholstery, soft-touch materials and improved insulation. Space remains a strong point with ample headroom and one of the largest boots in its class, making the Kiger practical for a small family.
Renault has worked on improving NVH levels. Better cabin insulation and additional damping are now part of the package and the result is a slightly quieter cabin. Under the hood, the familiar engine options remain: a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, paired with manual, AMT, or CVT gearboxes depending on the variant. While the naturally aspirated version is adequate for city commutes, it’s the turbo-petrol that shines with strong performance and punchy mid-range acceleration. That said, the three-cylinder engine’s typical growl under hard acceleration is still there.
The Renault Kiger facelift is not a radical makeover, but it is an important update that focuses on addressing the crossover’s biggest weaknesses. The improvement in refinement, the addition of comfort-oriented features like ventilated seats, and the updated looks contribute to making the Kiger feel more mature and well-rounded. While the naturally aspirated version of the Kiger lacks a defining USP compared to rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Tata Punch, and Hyundai Exter, the Kiger turbo offers a strong powertrain which includes a punchy turbocharged engine and an extremely smooth CVT gearbox so if you are in the market for that specific powertrain, the Kiger deserves serious consideration.
