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Kiger is Renault's way of saying good things do come in small packages.
As further proof segment differentiation has lost its meaning over the years, the Kiger is officially labeled by Renault as a compact model. However, the smart-looking crossover is only 3,991 millimeters (157.1 inches) long, thus fighting in India’s hugely competitive market of sub-four-meter vehicles. Over in Europe, the Kadjar – also a compact crossover – is a whopping 459 mm (18 in) longer than the Kiger.
Renault introduced the Kiger as a showcar in November 2020 and now it’s unveiling the production version. It slots above the even smaller Kwid without stepping on the toes of the Dacia Duster sold in India with the diamond logo. As with most Indian-market cars, the new crossover has a generous ground clearance of 205 mm (8 in) to better cope with the typically rough roads of the world’s second-most populous country.
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In terms of technical specifications, the Kiger rides on the same platform utilized by another sub-four-meter model sold by Renault in India – the Triber minivan. Underneath the hood, a three-cylinder 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine produces 100 horsepower and 160 Newton-meters (118 pound-feet) of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual or an optional CVT.
A lesser 1.0-liter naturally aspirated mill is also available, delivering 72 hp and 96 Nm (71 lb-ft) through a five-speed manual or an Easy-R robotized gearbox. That might not sound like a lot of power, but we’ll mention the Kiger only weighs 1,012 kilograms (2,231 pounds). Interestingly, the Kiger even has a sport mode for a 'crisper engine response and faster shifting.'
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Despite being a petite crossover, Renault touts best-in-class cargo capacity thanks to a volume of 405 liters, expandable to 879 liters after folding the rear seats. There are also several other storage compartments throughout the interior, offering an extra 29 liters. The Kiger comes with an upper glove box – a first in the segment – and a massive glove box as well.
All things considered, it would appear Renault has come up with a worthy adversary for the likes of the Nissan Magnite, Kia Sonet, and the Hyundai Venue.
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Source: Renault