Renault SA’s MD Confirms Plans For 2024
Want to know more about the current state of Renault in South Africa as 2024 gets into full swing? Recently Carmag.co.za spoke to the managing director of Renault Southern Africa, Shumani Tshifularo to find out where the manufacturer currently sits and what’s in store for South Africa in 2024. Here’s a summary of the main points he had to make and what we have to look forward to from the brand.
Renault has seen some upward momentum since 2022 with the manufacturer selling the most-ever Renaults in South Africa that year, thanks to popular products like the hard-to-live-up-to Renault Kiger!
“While other brands have noted the popularity of the Kiger and since introduced compelling rival models, together with a comprehensive update of this product scheduled for the middle of 2024, we remain confident that the Kiger will continue to sell well for us,” said Tshifularo.
The immediate future looks bright with Renault South Africa set for a busy 2024.
Updates To Existing Renault Models
Renault has updated its Kwid, Kiger and Triber models to be even more appealing. The updates to the Kwid are not huge but do add to the appeal of the already popular hatch. It does however get a new automatic variant, which uses the Easy-R electro-mechanical automatic transmission.
The Triber and Kiger updates however are a little more noticeable. The Tribe has a new 7.0-inch touchscreen cluster and wireless phone charger in its range-topping RXZ variant as well as cruise control and a leatherette steering wheel, while the Kiger’s eye-catching cosmetic adjustments include red brake callipers and red upholstery!
The updated Clio is set to arrive mid-2024 followed by an update to the Captur.
New Launches To Look Forward To
Renault also has high hopes for the arrival of an all-new Duster. The third generation of this SUV is set for a November launch, says Tshifularo. And then the Bigster (true to its name) is set to launch in 2026.
The Duster-based Oroch bakkie is also on the cards for local introduction when market conditions improve as currently pricing is not ideal for the local market.
Although Renault is shifting its focus to hybrid technology with products like the Captur and Arkana set to showcase this drivetrain solution, South Africa won’t see much of this right now.
“While Renault remains a proud contributor to the global advancement of electric mobility, for our market – and as is the consideration for many brands – we need to make a case for battery-electric technology based on potential volume, something that simply isn’t present now,” noted Tshifularo.
Local Concerns Subdued
If you were worried about getting parts for your new Renault, Tshifularo has some reassuring words: “We currently have a warehouse brimming with R100 million worth of replacement parts for our cars and should an owner not be able to get their vehicle back timeously, our dedicated team of customer relations officers is mandated to make alternative arrangements, including a loan car, to ensure that the next conversation around a braai isn’t one about a disappointing experience with a French car.”
Seems like the immediate future is bright for Renault in South Africa, with some top-class offerings on the cards.
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