Renault’s Kwid, Sandero & Clio
The French automaker has made its impact in South Africa and around the world for some time. Their small budget cars have taken centre stage with the likes of the Renault Kwid, Renault Sandero and even the Renault Clio.
Now, they’ve even gone one step further with their #GetCloser initiative and we take a closer look at what that means for Renault drivers. At the same time, we wanted to highlight some of the features to remind everyone just how good the Renault Kwid, Renault Sandero and Renault Clio are.
What Is The #GetCloser Initiative?
Renault South Africa has introduced a 12-month free comprehensive insurance plan for all the vehicles across the Kwid, Sandero and Clio ranges. The #GetCloser initiative adds to the five year/150 000 km warranty as well as the two year/30 000 km service plan on the Sandero and the three year/45 000 km service plan on the Clio.
According to a statement from Renault: “Through this offering, we are supporting 1st-time buyers and cash-conscious consumers to gain access to affordable mobility, by reducing the cost of total vehicle ownership.”
The Renault Kwid Fits Any Budget
In the entry-level segment, the SUV-inspired Renault Kwid has staked its claim exceeding all expectations. They have sold more than 20 000 vehicles since its launch in November 2016 and ranked 3rd on the top 10 list of South Africa’s best-selling passenger cars punting 1 069 units in February.
The Renault Kwid is suitable for every budget but don’t let the price mislead you. It may be more affordable but it has several features and enhancements that make it an even better buy. They’ve added smartphone mirroring, 7″ Touchscreen MediaNav with Bluetooth, USB, AUX and MP3 playback, ABS brakes, airbags and seatbelt warning among others.
There are three derivatives within the range, the Renault Kwid Climber, Dynamique and Expression. The SUV-inspired design means 180 mm of ground clearance to take on any challenge. It’s also surprisingly spacious and closely matches the upper segment vehicles seating 5 people comfortably with 300 litres of boot space.
The Renault Kwid has a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Smart Control efficiency (SCe) engine which has been optimised for power and performance. It pushes out 50 kW at 5 500rpm and maximum torque of 91 Nm at 4 250 rpm. Paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, the Renault Kwid is extremely fuel-efficient delivering just 4.7 litres/100 km and 4.4 litres/100km with the AMT transmission.
Budget-friendly Renault Sandero
The Renault Sandero elegantly combines durability, space and style in the shape of a large hatchback. It is available in three models, namely the Expression, Stepway Expression and Stepway Plus, the latter being top of the range with a few added extras.
Each Renault Sandero derivative features several acclaimed safety features such as central locking, alarm, Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Anti-slip Regulation (ASR) and dual front airbags.
On the inside, standard features include power steering, air-conditioning, height-adjustable front headrests, rear doors child lock, LCD display, internally adjustable side mirrors, a power socket, a 320-litre boot, engine undercover protection, a heated rear window, tinted windows, 15-inch and 16-inch wheels with full covers.
The 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine produces 66 kW and 135 Nm of torque giving the Sandero sufficient power for the average commute. Across the range, combined fuel consumption averages between 5.2 and 5.4 litres/100 km. This engine is one of the most durable and fuel-efficient compared to other vehicles in its price range. The Renault Sandero is simply a smart choice for any South African vehicle owner.
The All-Impressive Renault Clio
If you’re looking for sublime styling and impressive performance, the Renault Clio is just what you need. Available in four models, Authentique, Expression, Dynamique and EDC Expression – each one charming, stylish and filled with advanced features.
Besides the EDC Expression with 88 kW, the Authentique and Dynamique models produce 66 kW from the new 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo engines while the Expression has the bigger and 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine. They allow for sharp acceleration from low speeds where 90% of the torque is available at just 1,650 rpm. This helps avoid excessive gear changes while ensuring a pleasant driving experience. Fuel consumption is just 5.5l/100 km and emissions are limited to 126 g/km of CO2.
In terms of the new 1.2-litre, four-cylinder, 88kW Turbo engine in the EDC Expression, it seamlessly combines power with fuel economy as consumption is estimated at 5.2l/100 km and 120 g/km of CO2. The responsive and lively engine pushes enough power and doing it quietly for that matter. Coupled to Renault’s 6-speed dual-clutch EDC automatic gearbox, it produces 190 Nm of torque at just 2,000 rpm.
Safety has always been a plus point for Renault as all models come standard with 4 airbags, Hill Start Assist, ABS brakes with EBD, ESC and ASR. They are also fitted with an on-board computer, R&GO App, cruise control and ECOmode.
Whichever Renault you choose, it will be the right one as these cars are simply sublime especially if you consider everything you get in these budget cars. Visit our website for more information on new and used Renaults and stay up to date with motoring news from around the world by reading our blog and following us on Facebook.
