Image Courtesy Suzuki.com
66 horsepower, 3.68 meters long and priced under $200,000. "The SUV of the compacts", as the Renault Kwid 2022 is called, is neither an SUV nor a compact, but an urban car that can be a great option for low-cost mobility in cities crowded as those in Africa.
This Outsider version receives some elements from an SUV, such as unpainted plastic parts, luggage rails -decorative, because they carry a warning not to put cargo on the roof- and good ground clearance.
A simple and colorful cabin
The cabin neither disappoints. You can't ask for a very high level of refinement from a car whose range starts at $164,900. All of the Kwid's parts are stiff, shiny and economical looking. From the friendly side, it meets the expectations of an urban car, it has solid assemblies and meets the preferences of young customers. It is also noted an effort by Renault to break with the simplicity of an urban car by introducing some orange details on the steering wheel, gearshift and doors. The upholstery is pleasantly textured.
Interior
Image Courtesy Suzuki.com
The dashboard design is simple and functional, although the button layout is a bit odd. The door glass controls are located below the touchscreen and not on the door panels, as in most cars. In the same group of buttons is the control of the electric locks. In terms of space, if you're going to travel with passengers in the back all the time, it would be better to buy a pre-owned compact, not a city car. Kwid, like most of its competitors, offers little legroom and fits three passengers tightly in the back. The center seat belt, moreover, is pelvic only.
The right equipment
Image Courtesy Suzuki.com
The equipment configuration of the Renault Kwid 2022 is extremely successful. From the intermediate version we have a 7" multimedia system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. For that price, such an infotainment can be a decisive buying factor among young consumers. Air conditioning, trip computer, some electrical equipment, but no electric mirrors, steering wheel controls and an alarm.
Engine
The Renault Kwid is one of the least powerful cars in Africa, but also one of the lightest. It uses a 1.0 liter naturally aspirated engine, capable of generating only 66 hp and 69 lb-ft. The Renault Kwid can be driven at 50 km/h in fifth gear at only 2,000 rpm, getting very good fuel efficiency. In the city it has an averaged 14.4 km/l -the tank is filled with 37 liters.
