Two Renault SUVs For Under R200k

Whether you are looking for a reliable and safe family car or simply something to take you off the beaten track without breaking the bank, SUVs are always a sensible choice.

With plenty of slick and sporty models on offer, choosing the right option for under R200 000 can be a daunting prospect. Below are two fantastic SUVs, that you can get with Renault vehicle finance, to drive off in today without stretching your budget.

Renault Duster 1.6 Dynamique

The Duster, which is based on the same platform as Renault’s dependable Logan sedan, treads more closely to the small SUV line than many others, especially when you consider that the 4×4 model is an especially capable off-roader.

The Duster is unapologetically chunky and utilitarian in its styling and has a boot that is of a practical proportion, thumbing its nose at others’ refined curves and creases.

Renault Captur 66kW Turbo Dynamique

The eccentric Renault Captur still makes the most of its stylish, Clio-based styling, coveted raised ride height, and relative value. It has demonstrated that it is a strong competitor in the enduringly well-liked light-crossover market.

Renault South Africa, however, is not resting on its laurels and is eager to build on the success of this significant model, so it used a minor refresh to introduce a compelling new entry-level variant. It is one designed to attract customers who might not have had the means to purchase this French offering.

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Shared from https://www.capetownetc.com/

Renault Is Planning A Family Car Run On Electricity And Hydrogen

Renault is developing a family-sized passenger car that will run on electricity for short drives and hydrogen for longer trips as part of the company’s push into fuel-cell technology.

Dubbed Scenic Vision, the vehicle will have a carbon footprint that’s 75% lower than that of a conventional EV because it uses mostly recycled materials and a smaller battery, Renault said Thursday. The company plans to put the hybrid powertrain into vehicles from around 2030, a spokesperson said.

Chief Executive Officer Luca de Meo is rolling out more battery-powered models and aims to catch up with rivals in the popular sport utility vehicle segment. He has pledged a fresh lineup as part of a turnaround made more challenging by Renault’s costly pullout from Russia.

Still, the hydrogen push makes Renault an outlier among carmakers as the technology is still hampered by high costs and a lack of fueling infrastructure. Across all automakers, hydrogen-powered vehicles are forecast to account for just 0.1% of global production by 2029, according to research released Wednesday from climate think tank InfluenceMap.

Toyota Motor Corp. remains the biggest proponent of hydrogen, which only emits water vapor, though the world’s biggest carmaker has changed tack with plans to add battery-electric models to keep pace with the rest of the industry. BMW AG has said the technology could become an alternative for larger vehicles.

Renault said about 70% of the Scenic Vision’s materials will be recycled, including a floor made from old plastic pipes and milk containers and a fuel cell membrane using platinum from discarded catalytic converters. The car’s exterior design will mimic an all-electric model scheduled to hit the market in 2024. 

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Article shared from https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/

Waze Integrated As A Built-In Car App For The First Time Thanks To Renault

Two new Renault cars will be the first to get a dedicated Waze app with real-time routing, navigation, and more.

Waze is launching a dedicated app on two new cars with Google built in. It’s the first time Waze has been available as a standalone app in cars, thanks to Google’s embedded Android Automotive OS. It means drivers can access Waze’s real-time routing, navigation, and more, without the need to connect a smartphone.

All of the usual Waze alerts, navigation, and routing options will be available on dedicated displays inside the new Renault Austral Hybrid and Renault Megane E-Tech electric vehicles in Europe.

Renault Johannesburg has covered this topic on its blog and is sure to share the latest developments for the SA market.

Two new Renault cars will get Waze built-in

Renault’s openR link multimedia system will now include the dedicated Waze app, and the system also integrates with Google services like Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play to allow you to select music or change temperature with your voice, plot routes, and even control your smart home devices from your car.

Renault is the first car manufacturer to offer Waze directly on a vehicle’s multimedia screen without the need for a smartphone, but it certainly won’t be the last. Polestar, General Motors, Chevrolet, and Volvo all offer similar Google integration thanks to Android Automotive OS, with Honda set to use the embedded Android system soon too.

“Having Waze’s real-time navigation, routing and alerts built into the display of Renault’s vehicles, makes for a simplified and seamless driving experience,” says Aron Di Castro, director of marketing and partnerships at Waze. “We’re looking forward to bringing this excellent driving experience to more users across the globe in 2023.”

Waze has been increasingly focused on in-car improvements in recent years, with deeper CarPlay integration, support for Apple Music, and even some nostalgic ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s vibes appearing earlier this year.

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Info sourced from https://www.theverge.com/

Understanding Your Renault Car Service Requirements

It is important to do your homework regarding the maintenance and repair centre you use for your Renault service - especially for people without in-depth knowledge of car repairs and services.

Put your Renault into good hands, and consult a highly skilled and qualified repair shop. 

Service Intervals
Oil change service every 15,000 km or yearly.

Air and fuel filter - every 30 000 km interval but can last up to 100 000 km in modern vehicles.

Cambelt
Most cambelts need to be changed at 90 000 km or after 6 years, but this can vary from every 60 000 km to 180 000 km. Cambelts age and can tear if not changed in time, which will cause major engine damage.

Spark Plugs
Every 30 000 km but can last up to 100 000 km for platinum or iridium spark plugs in modern vehicles.

Transmission Fluid
The change intervals vary from every 45,000 km to a "lifetime" fill. But even for vehicles with a lifetime fill the oil deteriorates and we recommend a change at around 200 000 km or 10 years.

Power steering Fluid
Most vehicles come with a lifetime fill of power steering fluid. 
It is recommended that you change the transmission fluid at 200 000 km or after 10 years.

Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic (binds water) and deteriorates quite quickly, especially in coastal towns. 

Coolant Flush
Every 2 years.

High-quality coolants last longer and give better protection.
Ask your service centre about the recommended coolant for your vehicle.

Aircon Service
Every 3 years.
As the A/C loses a tiny amount of coolant over time, it loses performance. Oil in the coolant protects the moving parts of the A/C.

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Info sourced from https://www.autoworks.co.za/car-services/​

The Renault Kangoo Is A Refined And Efficient Van

The third generation version of Renault's Kangoo van might just be the market's most complete compact LCV

This completely redesigned third-generation Renault Kangoo van aims to set fresh standards in compact van design - and in some ways it does. There are some genuinely clever features on offer here - though UK customers can't have all of them - mixed with more than a dash of Gallic flair.

'Renaulution'. What on earth does that mean? Apparently, it's got something to do with a programme of innovation that the French maker has in mind for its most practically-orientated models. Starting with this one, the all-new Renault Kangoo van. We haven't actually had a completely fresh generation of Kangoo models since 2007, so this one is a big deal. Full of all the most clever ideas that the Renault LCV design department's been working on over the last decade.

Sadly we won't get this range, but the improvement in the product is evident almost everywhere you look with this third-generation version. The competition though is tough, not least from this Renault's most recently redesigned rival, the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy. So, does 'Kangoo' mean 'can do'? Let's find out.

Driving Experience

There's a choice of three diesel engines - 55, 70 and 85 kW versions of Renault's usual 1.5-litre Blue dCi powerplant. And customers are also offered the company's 1.3-litre TCe petrol engine with either 74 or 97 kW. The standard transmission choice is a 6-speed manual gearbox, but selected variants also offer the option of a 7-speed dual-clutch auto.

Taking a lead from some rivals, the French maker is now offering the option of a permanent rearview camera where the rearview mirror would normally be. And this third-generation Kangoo also gets a decent dose of the camera-driven driving aids and camera safety equipment that its predecessor lacked - features like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. There's also an all-electric version, the Kangoo E-TECH, which offers a 75kW electric motor and 44kWh battery with a range of 265 km

Design and Build

The Kangoo model line urgently needed a thorough visual redesign, which is what's been delivered here. In third-generation form, it certainly looks a lot more modern, with shorter bonnet and squarer lines. The large Renault badge on the nose (which conceals the charging socket on the E-TECH electric model) is flanked by headlamps incorporating the brand's signature C-shaped daytime running lights. And there are also smarter light clusters at the rear, where the left-hand door has been made wider to improve access in tight spaces.

There's an even bigger step forward inside, where just about everything that matters has been carried over from the current Clio supermini - steering wheel, dashboard, climate controls and the prominent infotainment touchscreen that appears further up the range. The cabin's more spacious too - now wide enough for the inclusion of an optional double passenger seat. If you need to carry more than two passengers, then it's worth checking out the Maxi Crew Van variant.

Market and Model

The Renault Kangoo price is dependent on the model, but we can say that we would want to keep some budget aside for the useful folding seat arrangement which sees the passenger chair collapse and the mesh bulkhead hinge to one side to leave a completely flat floor that runs from the rear doors into the passenger foot well. Another nice optional touch is the 'Easy Inside Rack', an interior roof rack that can hold lengths of up to 2,500mm and folds down from the roof when it's needed. Safety provision includes up to six airbags and you can specify all kinds of camera safety stuff this time round, including Lane Assist, tiredness alert and automatic emergency braking. Choose the optional automatic gearbox and you can have adaptive cruise control too.

Practicalities

As for practicality, well it isn't quite as straightforward as simply choosing the right body size - select either the 3.3m3 standard Kangoo van or the 4.2m3 Kangoo van Maxi. That's because in each case, there's the option to specify a fold-forward front seat that can boost said figures by quite a lot; to 3.9m3 for the standard version and to as much as 4.9m3 for the Maxi variant. And payload? Well for the standard van, this is limited to around 600kgs, but an 'increased payload' option can boost this to around 800kgs, while the lengthier Maxi variant with this option fitted can take around a tonne.

As for running costs, well, Renault says it's worked hard in this area; expect around 65mpg on the combined cycle and about 110g/km of CO2 from the volume dCi 95 diesel variant, while the TCe 100 petrol version manages around 50mpg and about 120g/km. The service intervals across the range though, aren't especially long. You also get a 3-year paintwork guarantee and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Summary

There's so much about this third-generation Kangoo that represents a clear step forward. Efficiency, cabin design, styling, safety, connectivity. We think innovations like the new folding seat arrangement and the roof-mounted interior rack are brilliant. If you're shopping in this class, make no mistake, this Kangoo has to be high on your list of contenders to try if you're to make the right buying or leasing decision. It turns out that 'Renaulution' really does mean something after all.

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Article shared from https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/

Renault Captur Success Leads To New SUV That Promises Even More

Renault wants to attack, definitively, the SUV market. The brand led by Luca de Meo, once it has already consolidated its electric car plan that will have its maximum and long-awaited components in the new R5 and R4, is now focusing a large part of its development on the launch of new SUVs with great commercial aspirations.

If in recent weeks we have already seen the launch of the new and very complete Austral and Espace, Renault will soon put on the market the new Scénic (which has also mutated into an SUV), an Austral Coupé and another model that we will talk about today: a new Captur long or Grand Captur, call it what you want for now because there is no official confirmation at this time about its final name.

Taking advantage of the great success that has marked the Renault Captur 2023 among utility SUVs, where for years it has been competing head-to-head for the leadership of the category with the Peugeot 2008, although in the last year, the Seat Arona has managed to overtake the two French models, this new SUV that they report today in France will complement their range as an independent model that will reach the market in the summer of 2024 and could be officially presented a little earlier, the same spring of this next year.

The current Renault Captur will be renewed and have a new, more familiar body.

The new SUV will be located between the Captur and Austral

Located then in the Renault range between the next new Captur and the Austral, this next Renault Grand Captur will technically derive from the utility SUV itself, although it will bet on its own independent design that sets it apart. Already developed under the DJB internal code, it will thus take advantage of the latest evolution of the CMF-B platform to create an even more complete model.

With measurements that will thus be located between the 4.23 meters of the Captur and the 4.51 meters of the Austral (points at 4.35 and 4.40 m), this new SUV is announced in France as a future real alternative to the traditional Mégane, which will definitively leave production throughout the same year 2024. And also indirectly of the Arkana, another SUV that already announces its disappearance from the catalogue in Europe for the year 2025, probably.

Front of the Scenic and hybrid versions of the new SUV

From Renault, as announced today in France, it is already confirmed that this new Grand Captur, or Long Captur, will not be a simple extended version of the Captur with the same aesthetics. Gilles Vidal, Head of Design for the brand, has been working for months on a new specific silhouette with different lines and a front that will be more similar to the one already seen in the concept that advances the new Scénic. The rear, on the other hand, will be reconfigured to optimize the space and load capacity of the trunk.

The new SUV will take the front already seen in the latest concept that anticipates the launch of the Renault Scénic.

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Article reshared from https://nationworldnews.com/

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Reviewed: Renault Triber AMT

An in-depth test drive review of the Renault Triber AMT

The addition of an AMT lends more convenience and also makes the Renault Triber an even better package

The Renault Triber has the advantage of being one of the most affordable 7-seaters in the Indian market today. When we drove this car last, we did come out impressed with the packaging that is offered for the price. The lack of an automatic was a negative point, but recently Renault launched the Triber AMT, and we’re driving it to find out whether it has any aces up its sleeve or not!

Exterior

No cosmetic changes have been made to the Renault Triber AMT, and it looks similar to the manual variant. Of course, there’s an Easy-R badge at the rear, but that’s about it. The Triber is a compact 7-seater and measures under 4 metres in length, and yet it manages to look very proportionate. The styling is pleasant to look at, and the design has an “offend-none” feel. Renault also offers some nice colour options with the Triber. The vehicle gets 15-inch steel rims, which have been styled to look like alloys.

Interior

The interior of the AMT variant is again similar to the manual variant, with the only change being the new gear lever and the absence of a clutch. The instrument cluster has a gear position indicator, and it beeps a warning when you shift from N to D or R without pressing the brake pedal. Renault has very smartly packaged the cabin of this 7-seater, and it has decent space in all three rows. The Triber is also decently feature-loaded, and it gets 4 airbags, ABS, touch screen infotainment system, manual AC, power windows, projector headlamps, push-button start, 4 speakers + 2 tweeters, reverse camera, 12V charging socket in the third row, etc. in the top variant which is indeed impressive. The seats are also quite comfortable and at par with other cars in this price range. Renault has also given a lot of importance to storage spaces, which are plenty in the cabin.

Performance

The Renault Triber AMT gets a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, petrol engine from the Energy series. It is offered on the Kwid, but it gets Dual VVT on the Triber. This engine is tuned to deliver 53 kW at 6250 RPM and 96 Nm at 3500 RPM, which is the same output as the manual variant. The engine is quiet at low revs but gets vocal after you cross 2500 RPM. It’s a small unit but pulls the car decently. The Triber now gets a 5-speed AMT which feels smoother than the one on Kwid, but yes while up shifting you do feel the head-toss movement that is generally felt in AMTs. When you’re driving fast, gear shifts can feel slow, but when you’re easy on the throttle, it feels smoother and manageable. Downshifts are a bit slow so quick overtakes on the highway need to be planned, otherwise a slow-down shift in the middle of an overtaking manoeuvre can get on your nerves.

The AMT offers decently quick and smooth shifts when you’re easy on the throttle and also gets a manual mode The AMT offers decently quick and smooth shifts when you’re easy on the throttle and also gets a manual mode

There is a manual mode too, and it makes sense to use it on inclines or sometimes to get better control of the gears while overtaking. The engine offers decent driveability in the city, but the power delivery isn’t very punchy, in fact, power is delivered in a flat manner. The Triber won’t disappoint in day-to-day runs, but you might have to take control of the gears sometimes. Renault is also working on a 1.0 turbo petrol engine, and that one should really spice things up. 

The engine offers decent driveability in the city, but the power delivery isn’t very punchy, in fact, power is delivered in a flat manner. The Triber won’t disappoint in day-to-day runs, but you might have to take control of the gears sometimes. Renault is also working on a 1.0 turbo petrol engine, and that one should really spice things up.

Driving Dynamics

Just like other Renault cars, the Triber also comes with a very sorted suspension setup. The ride quality is really impressive, and travelling on bad roads doesn’t really unsettle the car or offer a tiring experience to the passengers. The 182 mm ground clearance comes in to be really handy. The steering isn’t as felt as some other Renault cars, and it is quite vague, but it feels very light while driving in the city. The brakes offer good bite and the brake pedal has good progression.

Verdict

The price of the Renault Triber AMT is totally worth it if you are someone who wants convenience and if you are going to drive the car in traffic regularly. This vehicle has always come across as a VFM offering. The Triber doesn’t have any 7-seater rival in this price bracket apart from the Datsun GO+ which is quite smaller in comparison and no longer available as a new vehicle.

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Original article from: https://www.motorbeam.com/

Renault Kiger vs Renault Kwid Specs Compared

A detailed specs comparison of the Renault Kiger for sale and the entry-level Renault Kwid

Since the vehicle’s reveal, netizens have been busy comparing the Kiger with its hatchback sibling, Renault Kwid. So, we decided to do a proper on-paper comparison between Renault’s entry-level hatchback and its newest compact SUV.

Renault Kiger Vs Kwid – Exterior
The exterior design of the Kiger draws inspiration from the Kwid, and to be honest, that’s not a bad thing at all. The Kwid is quite a handsome vehicle, despite being just an entry-level car. It gets vertically-split headlamps and a large grille at the front. It also gets black plastic cladding on the bumper and wheel arches, which complete its crossover-inspired design.

The Kiger’s design is an evolution of the Kwid; it gets sleeker LED DRLs (with LED turn indicators), a sharper front grille, and sporty-looking bumpers. The main headlamp unit consists of three LED projectors on each side, and the C-shaped taillight is an LED unit as well. Overall, it looks sportier and more rugged than the Kwid. 

The Kiger is significantly larger than the Kwid, which isn’t a surprise. The Kiger is longer by 260 mm, wider by 171 mm, taller by 126 mm, and has a 78 mm longer wheelbase. At 184 mm, the ground clearance of the Kwid is impressive, but the Kiger trumps it by 21 mm.

Renault Kiger Vs Kwid – Interior
The Kiger gets a premium interior design, with a dark grey colour theme. Despite not being as large as some of its competitors, it has impressive interior space. There’s a lot of premium equipment on offer here, like a fully-digital TFT instrument cluster (7-inch), an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple Carplay and Android Auto), and automatic climate control.

The Kiger also gets two glove boxes, a wireless smartphone charger, an air purifier, ambient cabin lighting, push-button start/stop, power-operated ORVMs, and a drive mode selector. Safety features consist of ABS with EBD, up to 4 airbags, rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera, hill start assist, traction control, vehicle dynamic control, and TPMS.

Renault Kwid has a much simpler interior design, and considering the price, it’s quite good. Space is a little cramped at the rear though. Also, the equipment list is quite small, in order to keep the price in check. Still, it gets keyless entry, an LED digital instrument cluster, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The car also gets ABS, EBD, up to 2 airbags, rear parking sensors, a reverse parking camera, and central locking with an alarm.

Renault Kiger Vs Kwid  – Specifications
Renault Kiger shares its powertrain options with the Nissan Magnite (along with the platform). There are two engines on offer here, both 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder units. One is a naturally aspirated motor, with 72 PS and 96 Nm on tap, while the other is a turbocharged mill, which develops 100 PS and 152 Nm. A 5-speed transmission comes standard, and buyers get optional AMT on the NA petrol and optional CVT on the turbo-petrol.

Renault Kiger Specifications 

Renault Kwid also gets two engine options. The first one is a 799cc motor, which can generate 40 Kw and 72 Nm, while the second one is a 999cc mill, good for 50 kW and 91 Nm. As standard, the car gets a 5-speed manual gearbox, with a 5-speed AMT being optional with the larger, 1.0-litre engine.

Renault Kwid Specifications

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Comparison compiled by https://gaadiwaadi.com/

What You Want To Know About The Revised Renault Duster In South Africa

The Renault Duster was given a refresh in 2021 that includes subtle visual enhancements as well as a rejigged line-up that adopts Renault’s latest model grade names that were first introduced with the Kiger.

While the range was previously offered in Expression, Dynamique and Prestige flavours, the UPDATED line-up gives you a choice of three ‘Zen’ models as well as a flagship ‘Intens’ variant (and that’s not a typo).

The 1.5 dCi Zen 4x2 kicks things off at R365 999. The midrange models, namely the Zen EDC auto and the Zen 4x4 manual model, are listed at R409,999 and R420,999 respectively, while the Intens EDC 4x2 is yours for R420,999 as well.

The exterior design changes are subtle and include the addition of a rear spoiler and newly-designed 16-inch alloy wheels (although 17” diamond cut alloys are available). Renault has also added some new exterior colours, giving buyers a wide range of hues that include Arizona Orange, Fusion Red, Iron Blue, Brown Vision, Comet Grey, Highland Grey and Ice White.

Inside the new Renault Duster, you’ll find a new semi-flush 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which boasts wireless smartphone replication mirror compatibility, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Standard features in the entry-level Zen model include automatic air conditioning, an infotainment system, cruise control, rear parking sensors, dual front airbags, ESC stability control and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Additionally, the flagship Intens derivative ships with a multi-view camera, hands-free card, Blind Spot Warning, Hill Descent Control, front and rear skid plate add-ons with satin chrome appearance, 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome door mirrors.

On the engine front, the normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine has fallen away, now that the Kiger has been introduced as Renault’s entry-level SUV.

This means all Duster models are powered by the familiar 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesel mill, which produces 66kW and 210Nm in the entry 4x2 model and 80kW in the 4x2 EDS and 4x4 manual models, which have respective torque outputs of 250Nm and 260Nm. Claimed combined fuel consumption figures range between 4.8 l/100km for the EDC models and 5.1 l/100km in the case of the 4x2 manual.

All Renault Duster models are sold with a five-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a three-year/45 000km service plan.

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Article sourced from https://www.iol.co.za/motoring

Which Renault Kiger Engine Is The Better Choice?

Both the naturally aspirated and turbo engines have very different character and are suited to different purposes.

Here’s an interesting question from a potential buyer: “Can I go in for the CVT variant of the Renault Kiger with the naturally aspirated engine? Also, is there any issue with the engine after a year?”

The Kiger’s naturally aspirated 1.0-litre engine is nowhere near as good as the 1.0-turbo, which belongs to a different engine family. You will feel a marked difference in the driving characteristics between the two engines. The naturally aspirated version, apart from being down on power, isn’t as smooth or refined as the turbo variant. If you are driving very short distances, the naturally aspirated version will do, but if you can stretch your budget, it’s the turbo model we would recommend.

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Info sourced from https://www.autocarindia.com/advice/

Long-Term Review Of The Renault Kwid Climber

The Kwid Climber replaces our S-Presso as the smallest member of the fleet..

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I got the keys to a brand-new Renault Kwid Climber, which has replaced our Maruti Suzuki S-Presso; incidentally, its main market rival. The Kwid is not entirely new to me, especially after using the pre-facelift 0.8 as well as 1.0-litre versions extensively in the last few years. This one is the heavily updated Kwid and, in Climber's guise, it gets some unique cosmetic elements. This mid-life update went on sale in India before the rest of the world, and I have to give it up to Renault’s designers for making a budget hatchback look so convincingly SUV-like. The Climber variant comes with 14-inch wheels, which add a lot to its looks. The double-layer headlamp design, with its LED DRLs above and headlamps below looks upmarket, and further sets the Climber apart are its eye-catching orange exterior accents, dark grey wheel covers and unique interior upholstery.

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Since we are now back to a work-from-home regime, the Kwid makes fewer trips to the office, but I have managed to put around 2,000km on it, since late February. Spend enough time driving any vehicle, and you’re sure to get a good, solid perspective of its performance, dynamics and capabilities. The Kwid is my de facto ride to various COVID-19 centres I visit as part of a volunteer water distribution project I am part of. It’s also my companion for my aviation photography sessions, where its small footprint is quite helpful for the tight parking spots we ‘spotters’ often find ourselves in.

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Having driven this car over a thousand kilometres, I’ve noticed the new Kwid feels a bit slower and less energetic than the earlier Kwid 1.0, which I thoroughly enjoyed during my 12km office commutes a few years ago. While the engine does sound a bit more refined, it now feels milder. This is likely due to the added weight from upgrades made to let it meet the newer crash test norms.

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Once you get going, the performance feels adequate for a regular city commute, and it also has just enough pep to keep up with highway traffic. What I did like about the updated Kwid’s engine is that the bottom end is slightly better and, along with a light clutch, helps reduce stress and effort while driving in heavy traffic.

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The Kwid has also received a major change on the inside with this facelift. The dashboard is all new and so is the steering wheel. I did find the seats a bit better contoured, but the big talking point is the 8.0-inch touchscreen which is the biggest in the class. While the audio quality from the two speakers in the dashboard remains nothing to write home about, the updated touchscreen system sort of makes up for it. Also, a good addition is a rear-view camera, which offers a surprisingly clear view of obstacles, unlike other budget cars that have a patchy, low-res feed. Apart from the added structural reinforcement, the Kwid now gets dual front airbags and ABS as standard, thanks to the recent government norms, giving me a little more peace of mind.

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As far as fuel economy goes, I am getting around 13.5kpl in the city, but the Kwid Climber 1.0 is still quite new and the odometer is still just above 2,000km, so it should improve. More on that in my next long-term report, where I’ll also look into the rear seat and what has changed there.

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The Renault Kwid price is quite competitive, and the same is true for the Climber variant.

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Review compiled by https://www.autocarindia.com/car-long-termer/

New Renault Clio V Builds On The Success Of The Clio 4

The fifth-generation Renault Clio arrived in South Africa at the start of 2022 after a delay of more than two years due to the Coronavirus pandemic and semiconductor chip shortage. Although the stylish hatchback is late to the party, it still has some prominent features that would help it compete with the new Volkswagen Polo, Hyundai i20, and the Kia Rio. The fourth-generation Clio received lots of accolades around the globe, and the 2022 Renault Clio V builds on that success.

Trim levels and powertrain

The first non-tangible change for the Clio V is the new trim names. Renault has replaced the old Authentique, Expression, and Dynamique with entry-level LIFE, mid-level ZEN, and range-topping INTENS. 

The French carmaker gives buyers just one powertrain choice for the 2022 Clio V, i.e., a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol mill mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. While the engine might seem like carried over from the Clio IV, it basically has an entirely new motor producing 74 kW and 160 Nm of torque - 8 kW and 20 Nm more than the previous generation. The new powerplant is more fuel-efficient at 5.7L/100 km (claimed); however, in real-world testing, the reviewers witnessed around 6.9L/100Km.

Renault won’t want to offend the automatic gearbox lovers, so we expect a new mill and an auto variant sometime this year or for the refreshed 2023 Clio V.

Exterior

While the overall design of the new Clio V isn’t much different from the previous model, the new C-styled headlights and the new lower bumper give it an up-to-date appeal. Renault has also updated the rear styling with bigger LED rear lights built into the tailgate and a superbly incorporated chrome finish. Let’s not forget the concealed rear door handles that give the new hatchback a sophisticated look.

Interior

Renault is famous for its attractive cabin design, and the Clio V is no different. The interior looks upmarket, with most controls focused on the driver. The biggest highlight is the 9.3-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other salient features include two USB ports on the console and the digital instrument cluster that changes themes according to the drive mode.

To make the Clio V more capable, you can opt for the option that includes front parking sensors, a reverse-view camera, 17-inch diamond-cut alloys, a little bigger (9.3- in place of a 9.0-inch) display, and a wireless charging pad.

The new 2022 Clio V is a little more compact than its predecessor, but that doesn’t make it less spacious for carrying luggage. In fact, the cargo room has increased by 61 litres to take the total volume to an inspiring 391 litres with the rear seats up. Fold them flat, and the capacity increases to around 1069 litres.   

Renault Clio price

The 2022 Renault Clio V starts at R307,999 for the entry-level LIFE and R322,999 for the mid-level ZEN. The flagship INTENS model goes for R362,999. All Clio models come with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty and a service plan.

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Info sourced from https://www.motorhappy.co.za/motorhappyblog/

Renault’s Clio 5 Rivals The Polo

Renault launched the fifth-generation Clio in 2019, though it only reached SA in 2022.

At first glance, the new model doesn't look remarkably different from the previous model, but there are plenty of new features to write home about and to set it apart to the keen eye, like the broader shoulders, lower roofline, and more sculpted lines. The radiator grille is also raised and broader, while the signature C-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and Headlights add to its more assertive look.

And while it might not be chalk and cheese to the average consumer, it's because Renault says it's they've taken a winning formula and just refined it to create an even better little city car than before.

Same, same but different

In the week when Volkswagen has launched a brand new Polo range, with the GTI model being its range-topper, news that there'll be no Clio R.S model is a very bitter pill to swallow. But even more interesting is that A Life nomenclature also denotes Renault's entry-level model, much like VW. 

It's crazy to think the Clio for sale is already more than three-decades-old, and the name still stirs some kind of excitement when hearing it. Despite the first Clio only arriving in SA in the year 2000, with the second generation model, it's one of those cars that get better with age, constantly evolving with the times to keep up with modern trends and needs.

Since its local introduction, more than 76 000 models have been sold here, while more than 34 800 of those were from the fourth generation from 2013. While the styling is not radically different to the previous model, it's inside where there have been significant upgrades. And, it's really this car's success story as the brand has kept its DNA by taking something from every generation before it, especially its robust design, which has set the tone for the brand's most recent models.

New premium materials are evident, along with better build quality and higher-spec equipment. The cabin is also more driver-orientated for more comfort and convenience, and the car comes in six body colours. There's a new 9.3-inch Easy Link infotainment touchscreen on the tech front, multi-sense driving modes, park distance control, and cruise control. Safety features include Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam Control (HBC).

It has a lot to go up against, namely the brand new VW Polo, but also the Hyundai i20, Mazda 2, Ford Fiesta, and the Kia Rio - all with competitive pricing too, and all outstanding cars. And this is where the Clio will have to fight really hard to make its mark in the local line-up with such compelling options on offer to South Africans. Perhaps in recent years, the Clio had an advantage for being such a forward-thinking and dynamic package, but everyone else has come to the party, all having their hands raised up high, saying, 'Pick me, pick me.

So what's it like to drive?

Under the bonnet is a brand 3-cylinder 1.0-litre TCe 100 (turbo) petrol engine delivering 74kW and 160Nm. Power figures see an improvement of 8kW and 20Nm compared to the Clio IV, with CO2 emissions of 132g/100km. Renault also says fuel consumption has been reduced by 10%, with a claimed figure of 5.7 litres/100km in a combined fuel cycle.

At first, you'd think the new Clio is a tad bit underwhelming, and you're probably more than likely to stall a couple of times with the manual transmission. Don't try putting your foot flat in the corner too, or you'll be disappointed, just like you'll be slumped going up a hill.

But here's the thing about the new Clio; driving it is like going on a first date - you can't possibly know everything about your new love interest at first glance; you need to take some time and get to know them better. The same applies here, and once you take the time to play with the throttle, it's hardly mundane at all.

The 1.0-litre engine is feisty, but you have to know how to lure that out. Power figures are only 74kW at 2500rpm. But you need to hit it at the sweet spot of 5000rpm and keep it in that power band to get the most out of this little hot hatch, and then it really comes out of its shell and holds its own on sweeping S-bends in any of the Cape's delectable mountain passes to hold its own.  

Renault has hit the nail on the head with its smaller city cars like the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber, all selling really well for the brand and bringing in hundreds of sales numbers every month, consistently bringing in a tally of over 2000 units. It will be interesting to see if the Clio could move that many units too. If it does, Renault will make a killing and bump its ranking up from the fifth place in the automaker standings and market share.

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Review compiled by https://www.news24.com/wheels/

How Renault Improved The Koleos

The current Renault Koleos for sale: it’s “planted”, solid, quiet, comfortable and much nicer than the old one. The previous generation never sold very well in South Africa, with the last few easing off showroom floors by mid-2016.

Carried over to the new model is the Alliance’s 2.5-litre QR25DE petrol engine, now with more torque at lower revs, the X-Tronic CVT gearbox presently boasting seven virtual gears rather than the original five and, for the all-wheel drive version, iDrive 4x4 off X-Trail. It is still built at the Renault-Samsung factory in Busan, South Korea.

And, like other brands from that country, build quality has improved remarkably over the past ten years.

We were tempted to compare its fit and finish with cars from the German Big Three but knew that some readers might blow gaskets because certain things cannot be said out loud. It is very good, though.

And the new car looks every inch like the solid, muscular and handsome D-segment SUV that Renault was aiming for. It is the brand’s new range-topper, so forget budget-beating Dusters and Stepways for a moment; think European, think Clio.

Briefly, the new range consists of two models in the Dynamique trim level; two drive trains, 4x2 and 4x4; one engine and one transmission.

Expression offers 4x2 drive, auto-on halogen lights with cornering foglamps, 17inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, black fabric seats with manual controls, rear parking sensors, powered windows and mirrors, automatic dual-zone air conditioning with ducting to the rear and temperature-controlled cup holder, extra grab handles, a seven-inch touch screen, Arkamys 3D sound with app mirroring via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (now downloadable from Google Play Store), voice commands and the usual Bluetooth and plugs. The boot has grown from 450 litres to 464.

Safety kit includes six airbags; ABS brakes with EBA, EBD, ESC; traction control; hill start assist; ISOFix mountings; cruise control with speed limiter and side impact beams.

Dynamique offers a choice of 4x2 or 4x4 and ups the ante. Try LED headlamps, 18inch alloy wheels, leather seats with electric adjustment on both front chairs, additional parking sensors front and side, reversing camera, blind spot detection, keyless entry and start, tyre pressure monitoring, illuminated sun visor mirrors, an 8.7” capacitive (more sensitive) touch screen, LED dashboard with ambient lighting in five colours and auto-fold for the outside mirrors.

Colours: Ultra Silver, Metallic Grey, Metallic Black, Mineral Beige, Cosmo Blue and Solid White – the only “standard” colour.

Driving impressions: Spacious and all the adjectives used above. The all-wheel drive made easy going of gravel roads turned into quagmires by heavy rain the day before. The CVT is an acquired taste, unfortunately. It’s cooperative when driving sensibly and fuel-consciously, with manual override available for emergencies or sporty motoring. Traditionalists still prefer a “normal” automatic though.

• Engine: 2488 cc, naturally aspirated four-cylinder, 16-valve petrol
• Power: 126 kW at 6 000 rpm
• Torque: 233 Nm at 4 000 rpm
• Claimed average fuel consumption: 8.1 l/100 (4x2), 8.3 (4x4)
• Tank: 60 litres
• Boot: 464 litres
• Warranty: Five years/150 000 km
• Service: Five years/90 000 km at 15 000 km intervals

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Info shared on https://www.news24.com/