The iconic Renault Duster update now comes with superior SUV capabilities and enhanced features. Its imposing broad hood and contemporary design details, both on the exterior and the interior, lend an impressive stance. Combined with extraordinary power and safety features. The new turbo petrol variant is powered by a 1330cc 1.3-litre 4- cylinder engine. The engine can generate a power output of 156 PS and offer a peak torque of 254 Nm.The engine is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission and a X-tronic CVT transmission. Imposing Design The new Renault Duster is more audacious. Its new tri-winged full chrome grille guarded by the dominating hood syncs perfectly with the new signature projector headlamps. The LED DRLs and Everest Diamond Cut alloy wheels enhance the commanding look of the iconic Duster. The Kayak roof rails, matt¬e black embellisher and waterfall LED tail lamps further accentuate its dynamic stance. Renault retains 1.5 litre petrol engine Renault has retained the 1.5 litre petrol engine that is offered in the outgoing model. The new Renault Duster features a responsive and fuel-efficient 1.5 litre petrol engine. With exceptional power of 106 PS and maximum torque of 142 Nm. Sharp interiors The Midnight Black interiors are as inviting as they are comfortable. The premium blue glazed seats lend a classy touch, while the new style Renault steering wheel with so¬ touch add-ons ensures a smart, sophisticated feel. The dual-tone centre fascia with a so¬ touch dashboard and door trims further accentuate the stylish interiors. Additionally, the aesthetics are enhanced by the ice blue graphic instrument cluster with a multi-information display, which always keeps you updated on critical driving parameters. Advanced safety and technology The new Duster also delivers an engaging experience with its fully integrated 17.64 cm Touchscreen MediaNAV Evolution that comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and EcoGuide – a system that monitors driving pa erns and provides guidelines to improve efficiency. Now wait no more, the reinvented classic is here to take you places. Comfort above allThe new Renault Duster’s interiors merge imagination with practicality. The fully automatic climate control adjusts the airflow inside the cabin and ensures the most comfortable temperature. The compact yet spacious, illuminated and cooled glovebox is thoughtfully redesigned to accommodate all your personal belongings.
How much does it cost? Who are rivals?The current Duster range starts at R288,900 and goes up to R373,900, according to Group 1 Renault’s website. The Renault Duster turbo petrol variant, if it comes to SA, will probably be priced slightly higher. The Duster rivals the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross directly but with the new turbo motor also takes on the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the Nissan Kicks! . . . Article from https://auto.timesofindia.com/
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Covid and quarantine delayed the international launch of Renault’s new hybrid line-up, as they have most things this year. So rather than test eco-friendly versions of Renault Clio and Captur on marble-smooth roads somewhere sunny, Renault was forced to send them to Buckinghamshire, UK. This is good because their lumpy, cheese-grater roads immediately show up any chassis weaknesses. Now let’s start with Clio. What a gem Renault’s Clio is. I’ve said it before but Clio has matured over the last 30 years like a fine wine in a French chateau. Superb ride-quality, fizzy engines, low driving position and a plush, soft-touch cabin crowned by an upended iPad that warns of speed cameras and flags up fuel prices. It’s almost as though this car was engineered by an actual person who leads an actual life. The new E-Tech hybrid is the cherry on top. The 1.6-litre petrol/electric combo gives you extremely good performance and economy — 140hp and 100km/h — and because the battery charges itself on the move, there’s no faffing about with a plug.
It’s the smoothest transition towards our electric future. Clio starts in electric, reverses in electric and has a B-mode for stronger regenerative braking. This also means you can drive using only the throttle pedal if you’re good enough at anticipating traffic flow. Why Renault no longer sells Clio by the boatload in the UK baffles me. I’ll just consider us lucky to still have the petrol Renault Clio range at Group 1 Renault in South Africa. The Megane eVision was first previewed in the fall of last year, and Renault’s chairman, Luca de Meo, announced that production would begin by the end of 2021. Now we discuss our first glimpse of a prototype testing on public roads for the first time. When the original concept was announced, it was said that the production car would look 95 percent like the concept, incorporating the same design elements such as the pushed-to-the-corners wheels and the distinctive 3D lighting. Those claims appear valid in these spy shots, which point to the body shape and lighting being similar to the Megane eVision. However, there are also some changes. The beltline appears to be lower, allowing for a larger glasshouse, while the roof tapers down less. The rear shoulders appear less pronounced, and the exterior mirrors are conventional units (although cameras may be offered on certain trim levels). The new Megane eVision is the first Renault based on the Alliance’s modular CMF-EV platform, which also underpins the Nissan Ariya. Although billed as a compact hatchback, it stands tall, looking more like a crossover. When launched, the Mégane eVision will do battle with Volkswagen’s ID.4 and will be produced in France, at the same plant that will manufacture the electric 5 hatchbacks. The production car will feature a 60 kWh battery pack, billed as the thinnest battery in the segment, at 11 cm (4.3 in) tall. The battery dimensions have allowed Renault to explore packaging options which they claim will enable the Megane to have as much interior room as a conventional hatchback, but within a footprint that is some 50 cm shorter.
The Megane eVision had a 160 kW single motor, delivering around 220 hp. This battery is expected to have a range of 450 km (280 miles), while de Meo hinted at the EV being offered with multiple battery capacities. It is also expected to come with fast charging capabilities, enabling 200 miles (320 km) of charge to be added in 30 minutes. It will occur later in 2021, with production slated before the end of the year. There’s no confirmation on whether the Megane eVision will be released in South Africa or what price Renault will stick on it, but Renault prices have always been reasonable considering how much Renault you’re getting for your money. We’re still a long way from getting vehicles like this at local dealerships like Group 1 Renault, but luckily Renault prices on petrol and diesel cars are affordable. . . . Original article from https://www.carscoops.com/ Renault South Africa has expanded its seven-seater Triber range with the introduction of an automated manual transmission (AMT) variant. The self-shifting derivatives join the manual-equipped models that launched at Group 1 Renault in February 2020, with local sales having already pasted the 2 500 mark. Priced at R219 900 and available exclusively in flagship Prestige trim, the five-speed AMT variant commands a R10 000 premium over the equivalently specified five-speed manual derivative. As a reminder, the Prestige trim level includes items such as four airbags, a reversing camera, LED daytime running lights, 15-inch “flex” wheels, a third 12 V socket and keyless entry. An eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. As with the manual models, power comes from a naturally aspirated 1,0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine delivering 52 kW with 96 N.m to the front axle. The French firm says the AMT has been “specifically tuned for effortless driving in city traffic conditions”. All models in the Indian-built Triber range feature a two-year/30 000 km service plan (with 15 000 km intervals) and a five-year/150 000 km warranty. Pricing at selected Renault dealers:
Article from: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-triber-amt-offered-in-south-africa
The demand for SUVs has been and still is at an all-time high. Back in 2015, it was also the reason Renault introduced the SUV-like Kwid. It was designed with two different ideas merging together; the aforementioned demand for SUVs is what inspired its tall dimension and second, Renault’s aim of a small A-segment car which would bring volumes for the manufacturer. Working over this idea for the French manufacturer was Gerard Detourbet, who was also the brains behind cars like Logan, Lodgy and ever-so-popular Duster. Using his formula, Gerard Detourbet was well prepared for cracking the code for Renault India that has given the Kwid a successful 5-year run. In 2020, the Renault Kwid got its midlife makeover. With updated styling, interior design and features, it promises to be a more complete automobile. So without further ado, let’s jump straight in and find out what’s what. Exterior
Jacked-up hatchbacks with SUV-inspired design elements have a tendency to fascinate most buyers. Plans to offer this package to customers in an A-segment hatchback was how the Kwid was conceived. For 2020, the new Kwid has received little to no styling tweaks in its side and rear profile, however, it is the front that is largely revised to help you differentiate the Kwid facelift from the car it replaces. At the front, the most evident change is the placement of the headlight assembly. The units have now moved further down from where they were previously placed. You now find them tucked in neatly to the bumper, in place of where you found the fog lamp units in the outgoing Kwid. At the top, filling the void left by the missing headlamp units are a pair of bright strip of DRLs accompanied by the turn indicators. The DRL assembly merges seamlessly with the grille to keep the essence of the original Kwid design alive. With this shift, the bumper also received a few changes of its own. It is now re-profiled to house the headlamps and a few extra faux air vents can now be found positioned below them. However, the car gets an all-black lip on the lowest-most part of the bumper and its design mimics that of a scuff plate. It also works as an air-dam to supply cool air to the radiator. Looking more keenly you’ll the grille has also been revised but with lesser chrome detailing this time. There is a slim chrome-plated strip that runs across the grille to merge with the sleek DRLs on either end. The honeycomb design on the grille remains intact but isn’t as bold as the previous design. Moving further back, the bonnet design remains unchanged and so does most of the side profile. Renault designers have only changed the finish of the ORVM caps for a two-tone appearance, the design of the wheel caps and graphics on the plastic cladding over the doors. The wheel caps are now a 5-spoke design in comparison to the older car’s 3-spoke finish. The top-of-the-line Climber variants, however, get an option of multi-spoke alloy wheels. Apart from these minor details, the overall design remains untouched. The rear fascia of the Kwid was always a sight for sore eyes and that design remains intact in this new iteration as well. The minor changes here include a new glow pattern for the tail lamps which now get LEDs for the stop lamp, while turn indicators and reverse lamps make do with halogen bulbs instead. Other changes that the Kwid gets with this facelift are reflectors integrated into the rear bumper. The pronounced crease on its boot lid in conjunction with the LED-taillamps this time has brought along a fresher appeal. Renault has put in more effort on the styling at the front, while it seems the rear and the sides were treated more like step-children with this facelift. Thus, from the sides and rear, the Kwid does feel a tad aged. Interior Just like the host of changes to the Kwid's front-end design, the interior is significantly revised. To start with, the steering wheel gets an all-new design. While it may resemble the old one slightly, the design is now even more contemporary looking. It is nice to hold with horn pads right in your reach and well-placed thumb contours for an easy 10-and-2 position. It is a flat-bottom unit and is quite sporty to look at as well. Behind the steering wheel is the instrument console, which now is a fully-digital unit. Part sharing from the Triber is evident here and also borrow cues from the Duster. The centre console is also new with revised placing for the power window switches and HVAC controls. In the centre of the dashboard now sits a larger touchscreen unit. The unit now measures 8-inches as compared to 7-inches in the outgoing Kwid. However, the number of speakers remain the same, with just two mounted on each door pad. What sets this infotainment system apart from the competition is the reverse parking camera, which the S-Presso misses out on. The design of the dashboard on the passenger’s side has been redesigned as well. The glove box on top of the dash is now gone, replaced by big, bold lettering that spells 'KWID'. While the glovebox on the top is no more, the glove box found below is enormous by all means for a car of this size. It can easily store a half-face helmet without any hesitation. Along with this, the Kwid gets other storage spaces inside the cabin. The door bin on the front doors are large and can hold a 1-litre water bottle. There are cubby holes in the centre stack too. However, moving towards the rear bench, there are no door bins or cubbyholes to be found here. While the new Kwid does have a lot going for it. Panels all around the cabin are hard and scratchy, albeit with upmarket fit and finish levels. Enhancing the ambience further is its upholstery. With red accents on seats and contrast stitching, the seats on the Kwid liven up the overall dark interior of the car. Talking about the seats, we cannot explain just how comfortable they are. With adequate support from the side bolstering, the seats on the facelifted Kwid are ideal for pottering around cities. While cost-effectiveness may have sacrificed on cushioning, expecting premium-sedan-like comfort from them would not be justified. For the price you pay, the Kwid offers ample space and support to all its passengers. How many passengers, you ask? The Kwid can accommodate 4 of them with ease, including the driver. Any more than that would be a tight squeeze. With that said though, the Kwid still proves itself to be a well-engineered combination of space and design. On the whole, the new Kwid now gets a better in style and appeal, just with the updates in design and equipment. Performance The Renaut Kwid was offered with two different engine options for the customers at Group 1 Renault to choose from. One displaces 799 cubic centimetres and the second displaces 999 cubic centimetres. The rated output of the 799cc engine is 54PS and 72Nm, while the latter produces 68PS and 91Nm. Renault sent over its 1.0-litre unit for our test-drive review and us being the performance-hungry souls that we are, happily accepted. Cranking the engine up, brought the 3-cylinder mill to life with a throaty hum and expected vibrations. While the engine did feel adequately powerful, it was the engine refinement and erratic power and torque delivery that were its weak point. Around the low rpm range, the car has a lot of grunt to pull itself along at a peppy rate. However, there is a large gap between how the the engine climbs revs and the car builds speed. Step on the throttle in a hurried manner and all your rewarded with is a louder whine from the motor and higher vibration through the steering wheel Instead, it is around the 3000 rpm mark on the tacho, that the engine actually starts to build momentum and numbers on your speedometer increase at a faster pace. With an uneven power curve, the car does not particularly excite you, yet it can easily do triple-digit speeds and hold them all day long. That said, cruising around 90kmph is what it does best and does so with ease. Helping it potter along such speeds with flair is also the well-tuned suspension. The suspension setup comprises of basic McPherson struts on the front and twist beams with coil overs at the rear. Nothing fancy but these components help the car with the right amount of travel, progression, damping and adequate rebound. The Kwid can tackle the worst of the bumps and potholes with an assuring thud thanks to this mechanicals. Throwing it around the corners though is the scary bit, as the car likes to roll quite a bit thanks to the softly-sprung setup. Although, sticking to a lane and cruising in a straight line is a job it does better done than its competition. The steering wheel is lovely to hold, as we mentioned earlier and that also inspires some sort of cornering confidence. However, being light, what it does best is allow the car to be very easy to use around the city. Making manoeuvres in a tight parking place or in slow-speed traffic conditions is easy, as the steering is feather-light. Albeit, it doesn’t gain any weight whatsoever, with the gain in speed. Thus, resulting in twitchy and unnerving driving dynamics. The chassis is the strongest point of the Kwid’s driving behaviour. Coupled with a light steering, adequately powerful engine, soft suspension setup and perfectly tuned gearbox, the Kwid’s chassis makes the car a sprightly performer. Also, benefitting it are the 14-inch wheels, which are large enough to save on some rolling resistance. Verdict Renault has worked hard on giving the Kwid a new and distinctive face, with most of the effort going into sprucing up the design up-front. Summing it up, the Renault Kwid is a car that wins the budget hatchback segment’s beauty pageant. Original article from: https://indianautosblog.com/ RAVISHING, or should that be classy, good looks. The 2020 Renault Koleos certainly has a certain je ne sais quoi about it. It’s attractive and distinctive, but it’s hard to say what makes it that way.
From its stylish head and taillight treatments to the abundance of exterior and interior chrome, the Koleos looks genuinely French. For 2020 it comes with new-look 19-inch alloy wheels. The Renault Koleos model variants at Group 1 Renault include the Expression CVT, the Dynamique CVT and the Dynamique CVT 4x4, with the latter being the range-topping offering. If you’re choosing the one with all the cookies in the jar though, you’ll score plenty of cool bits, like the opening panoramic glass roof, comfortable heated and ventilated front seats, in the leather of course, and a hands-free powered tailgate, as standard. There’s also a BOSE premium audio system and a portrait-style 8.7-inch infotainment system, complete with satellite navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And in what can best be described as something uniquely French, the volume buttons are behind the steering wheel. That’ll take some getting used to, but it’s kind of cool, even if it is a little quirky. The Koleos shares much of its underpinnings with its Alliance (the working partnership between Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi) brother, Nissan, and the X-Trail, with the Ti variant a similar comparison to the Dynamique. Like the X-Trail, it’s got plenty of interior space, with good legroom both front and rear, and loads of boot space, with 464-litres with the seats up (it’s a 5-seater), and 1,690-litres when the second row is folded. The Koleos Dynamique also has one-touch seat folding, whereby you can literally touch a button to fold the seats flat. It’s another one of those unusual features, but it’s definitely something we found very usable. There’s a lot of those nice practical touches here. There are cup holders and USB ports in the front and rear, which is a nice touch as well, and ensures your rear seat passengers can charge devices and watch movies, should they want to zone out. The door pockets will hold proper drink bottles too. If the interior has another downside, other than that misbehaving infotainment system, it’s that the speed limiter and cruise control are not located on the steering wheel, they’re in the centre console, behind the cup holders. Yes, we know. Weird right. On the road, the Koleos feels firm and solid and drives nicely. It’s well behaved on rougher roads and is capable enough in handling the basics of off-road terrain. We wouldn’t recommend climbing any rock faces with it though. It’s powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine offering 126kW of power and 226Nm of torque. Renault claims fuel economy of 8.3-litres/100km. It’s mated to a CVT transmission and an average one at that. It feels like its working too hard thanks to the fact it holds the revs high and long under acceleration. There’s an abundance of safety and driver aids though, including walk away door locking, and easy park assist, as well as a multitude of airbags, advanced autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. In addition, there’s stability control, ABS, emergency brake assist, hill start assist, forward collision warning, and automatic high beam. In the seriously overcrowded mid-sized SUV space, the is definitely one of the better options, thanks to its space, an abundance of technology and safety features, and it’s uniquely French style. It is up against the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander, Toyota RAV4, and of course, its sibling, the Nissan X-Trail Ti. It’s a tough space to play in but is definitely worth considering. You can choose your 2020 Renault Koleos Dynamique in one of six colours, including Solid White, Metallic Black, Mineral Beige, Titanium Grey, Cosmos Blue, Ultra Silver and Dune Beige. It comes with a 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, 5-years roadside assist and 5-years capped price servicing. The 2WD variants have a 5-star ANCAP safety rating as well. A range of accessories are also available, should you want to customise your shiny new Koleos SUV, including roof racks, side steps, a boot sill protector, front and rear weather shields, and carpet floor mats. Article sourced from: https://www.exhaustnotes.com.au Mark five and almost 30 years of Renault Clio, is what it is. Yes, v1.0 of Renault’s supermini was launched way back in 1990. What we have here is definitely a new, new Clio though, spun from a shared platform called CMF-B (Common Module Family -B), the use of which is said to deliver improvements in space, safety, weight-saving and tech. Which it does, but more of that in a minute. Outside it’s shorter than before - though the 12mm reduction in length isn’t all that obvious - a touch wider and lower, but with more space, load capacity and general volume inside. Noticeably more space, in fact, and it feels more capacious upfront, though the rising window line makes it a little less airy stuffed in the back. There are LED headlights across the range, Renault citing safety benefits, and ‘C’-shaped daylight running lights. There are sharper creases, bonnet feature lines, the usual Clio hidden rear door handles up in the C-pillar, a big Renault badge in the front grille, some nice horizontal lines that widen the car visually. It’s all very clean and crisp, without being particularly scary or revolutionary. If Laurens van den Acker’s (Senior VP, Corporate Design at Renault) intent was to clean up a MkIV Clio, then the brief has been exceeded. But that was exactly the brief: the Clio has been Europe’s best-selling B-segment supermini since 2013, so any scary external revolution really wasn’t on the cards - this is still a familiar Clio, tidied up and made contemporary. And there are some really decent changes, including a leaps-and-bounds better interior (see ‘On the inside’) and new engines. We’ll get a very clever E-Tech hybrid in 2020, but for the moment there’s a choice of four ICE motors: a pair of 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrols (Sce 75 and TCe 100) with 70 and 98bhp respectively, a warm-ish 1.3-litre TCe 130 four-cylinder petrol with - you guessed it, 130PS (128bhp) - and a 1.5 Blue dCi 85 four-cylinder diesel with 83bhp. The lower-engined petrol variants get a five-speed manual, the diesel a six, and the faster one a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. The trims are Play, Iconic and R.S.Line, the latter a nod to the sportier Renaults, the others variations of kit. It’s a handsome enough, decently-sized supermini, that’s more efficient and a bit cleverer than before. Good. If you wondered where all the real newness was in the new Clio, then Renault seems to have stuffed it all inside. Because where it really scores is with its new interior, which is several jumps ahead of the old one. Renault calls it the ‘Smart Cockpit’, and the first things you notice are the 9.3-inch infotainment screen stuck up in the middle of the console portrait-style. Rotary knobs for air-con and ‘piano buttons’ for other functions are handily perched beneath, and the gearstick is pushed up into the right place in a semi-floating console just below that. In front is another small TFT instrument cluster - there’ll be a 10-inch optional version next year - and a generally very agreeable layout. There are better materials, much nicer and more comfortable seats - especially for taller drivers - and some really nice attention to detail. The steering wheel is a touch smaller, for instance, and features a smaller airbag. You can see where bare millimetres have been shaved (the steering column is slimmed down, making more room for knees), and get the feeling that Renault really has tried to hone this one along with the more obvious headline changes. In fact, with some of the different colours of panel available at Group 1 Renault, the interior has turned out to be the Renault Clio’s high point - you’ll almost forget that you’re in a supermini at all. There’s even a choice of eight different colours of ambient lighting, and enough options to satisfy any inveterate button-pusher. It has to be mentioned that you must spec lighter-colours in here though - all the cars on the launch had lovely (and expensive-feeling) options, so we’ll reserve full judgement until we see a base ‘Play’ with nothing on it. It might be quite a bit less fun. Article from: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-clio-a-very-mature-car
The Renault Sandero price offers strength, space and style in the form of a large hatchback.
The Sandero is available in three models The Ambiance, Dynamique and Stepway. This review focuses on the Ambiance and Dynamique models. Our favourite standard trim features on these models 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 capacity, engine undercover protection, a heated rear window, tinted windows all round and 14" wheels that arrive with full covers. Each Sandero features Renault acclaimed safety features such as central locking, and alarm system, the latest Bosch 8.1 Antilock Braking System (ABS) incorporating both Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). It also boasts one of the most durable and fuel-efficient engines when compared with other vehicles in its price range - making the Sandero car a street-smart choice for South African vehicle owners. Check out the current Renault Sandero price or compare the various models available at Group 1 Renault by visit their digital showroom. Article source: https://www.imperialselect.co.za/blog/new-renault-sandero-review The Renault Duster for sale received subtle cosmetic changes including a redesigned front, a fresh bonnet and new front bumpers. It also got LED DRLs and a set of projector headlamps. The front grille now has more chrome surrounds. The rear was worked on too, as it now sports new roof rails as well as black padding on the tailgate. Renault also gave the Duster a new set of alloys.
The interiors are now decked in a new seat fabric, while the infotainment system now features phone app connectivity. The car also received an update in its safety system, including dual front airbags, ABS, parking sensors and speed warning. Renault did not touch the engine, however, and it continues with its 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The 1.5-litre petrol engine makes 106 PS of maximum power and 142 Nm of peak torque. It has a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional CVT gearbox. The diesel engine, on the other hand, makes 110 PS of maximum power and 248 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with an AMT gearbox as optional. The car launched in 2019 was priced higher than the then current-gen Duster (2018) due to its cosmetic and safety upgrades. You can find the 2019 Renault Duster for sale at Group 1 Renault dealerships near you. Article source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/technology/2019-renault-duster-to-launch-soon-gets-a-number-of-cosmetic-changes-4088891.html Renault South Africa has already had a busy 2020, with the local arm of the French firm launching at least five new or facelifted models locally in 2020. So, the new seven-seater Triber already arrived in South Africa, around February. This model is set to do battle with the likes of Datsun's GO+.
The facelifted Mégane (which, interestingly, has yet to be revealed on the global stage) the flagship Mégane RS Trophy was planned for a local launch in March. We also expected to see the facelifted Koleos hit local dealership in March 2020, a mere 13 months after the nameplate made a return to SA shores. Next comes the all-new Clio hatchback in about April, with the box-fresh Captur hot on its heels in around June. All these great Renault vehicles are available at Group 1 Renault to buy or simply to test drive. Make sure you stay abreast of Renault specials this year to snag your favourite new Renault car at a special price! Article source: https://www.carmag.co.za/news/industry-news/heres-which-vehicles-renault-is-bringing-to-south-africa-in-2020/ The smallest model in the French firm’s local range, the Renault Kwid, has proven nothing short of a smash hit in South Africa, promptly assuming the role of the brand’s best-seller. And that popularity shows no signs of waning. Indeed, in the first ten months of 2019, as many as 8 709 examples of the little budget car were registered across the nation (taking the total since launch to a whopping 27 702 units), with the Kwid achieving a monthly sales figure in excess of 1 000 units as many as five times. That makes it the fourth best-selling passenger vehicle so far this year, behind only Volkswagen’s seemingly unconquerable Polo and Polo Vivo, and Toyota’s Fortuner. A considerable number of South African buyers, including those who manage rental fleets, clearly place value at the very top of their lists of priorities, then.
Of course, Renault South Africa has steadily expanded its Kwid line-up at Group 1 Renault over the past three years (adding special-edition models such as the Xtreme as well as the flagship Climber), while also introducing automated manual variants and (finally!) fitting ABS as standard as recently as April 2019. But this latest update represents the first formal facelift for the diminutive crossover-inspired hatchback. The new range The updated local Renault Kwid range has grown from five to six derivatives, with the familiar Expression, Dynamique and Climber trim levels each offered with either a five-speed manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission employing the same number of cogs. Pricing now runs from R144 800, while one year of comprehensive insurance, a two-year/30 000 km service plan and a five-year/150 000 km warranty are all included. That sees its well-positioned against rivals such as Hyundai’s box-fresh and smartly priced Atos, the Datsun Go (now offered in CVT guise, too), Suzuki’s underrated Celerio and the base models in Kia’s Picanto range. So, what exactly does the Kwid’s mid-cycle refresh entail? Well, besides the obvious styling changes – the most noticeable being the thoroughly revised front end, which includes an in-vogue split-lighting arrangement comprising narrow daytime running items sited atop chunky main elements framing a new grille, along with new LED taillamps – Renault has also ostensibly improved the Indian-built Kwid’s safety specifications. Talking safety Dual airbags now ship standard (the pre-facelift model made do with a single driver’s item, remember), while the long-awaited ABS with EBD has, naturally, been retained. A seat-belt reminder for the front pews has also been introduced. Is that enough for the Kwid to better its most recent Global NCAP crash test rating, a solitary star scored back in 2016? Well, any improvement would likely be marginal, what with Renault South Africa disappointingly confirming no changes have been made to the vehicle’s structure (such an amendment would likely come only with the next-generation model, the company says). The French firm’s local arm does, however, quite cryptically state the facelifted Kwid has gained a “new rear axle”, while the already lofty ride height has seemingly been further hiked by four millimetres to 184 mm, likely thanks to the fitment of 14-inch wheels (an inch bigger than before and now wrapped in high-profile 165/70 Apollo Amazer XP rubber). Thanks to the mysterious tweaks made to the rear suspension (which remains torsion beam in construction) and the adoption of slightly chunkier wheel wells plus a larger spare wheel, the luggage compartment has shrunk to a claimed 279 litres. Interestingly, the vehicle’s overall length has been increased slightly to 3 731 mm, though the wheelbase is an unchanged 2 422 mm. Step inside Inside, the ergonomic shortcomings that afflicted the original model have been left largely unaddressed, still stemming from a decidedly perched seating position and a lack of height adjustment on the driver’s pew (the latter admittedly the norm in this segment). For taller drivers, this results in a distinct shortage of headroom and leaves the stowed sun visor partially obstructing the pilot’s forward view. Add a fixed steering column and those with lengthier limbs find themselves having to awkwardly adjust their bodies to the controls rather than the other way around. Still, at least the Kwid offers plenty of kit at the price, with a new centrally sited 8,0-inch touchscreen – complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, and handily relaying video from a reversing camera – standard on Dynamique and Climber variants. These derivatives furthermore gain a second 12 V powerpoint (for use by rear passengers, interestingly sited at the edge of the parcel shelf), a fast-charging USB port up front, rear power windows and electrically adjustable side mirrors. A redesigned digital instrument cluster, revised steering wheel and rear parking sensors, meanwhile, are standard across the range. And while the vast majority of plastics employed throughout the cabin are justifiably hard, fit and finish remain decent for the segment. Under the bonnet The powertrain, though, is carried over unchanged, with the firm’s naturally aspirated 1,0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine still offering class-typical outputs of 50 kW and 91 N.m. We again found the little three-pot does its best work – though quite vociferously – high up the rev range (peak twisting force arrives at a fairly elevated 4 250 r/min, after all). It's interesting to note, though, that the firm's spec sheet suggests the updated model has gained around 40 kg, which means the little engine has a bit more to lug around. Though Renault claims a vast improvement in road holding thanks to the apparent fine-tuning of the rear axle and the adoption of larger wheels, it proved difficult to detect any discernible change on the short drive in Gauteng without having an outgoing model on hand to compare. In short, though, the high centre of gravity and softly sprung suspension (perhaps ideal at low speeds on poorly surfaced roads in the vehicle’s domestic market of India) again combine to deliver what is an at-times unsettled experience at higher velocities. Final thoughts While we applaud the inclusion of ABS and dual airbags here (but had hoped for some additional structural reinforcements, too, as have been applied to the Brazilian-market model), some of our misgivings from that January 2017 road test – in which the original Kwid scored a lowly 54 out of 100 – remain. But so does the South African buying public’s enthusiasm for the nameplate. Add fresh looks, extra equipment and yet more value to the package, and the Kwid’s local sales success story looks set to continue, safety concerns or not. When it comes to affordable vehicles, Renault is one of the brands that's got it covered. The French automotive giant has been producing affordable cars for the longest time, but more recently, they’ve given us the budget-beating Kwid. While the Kwid is by no means the safest nor the most attractive, it has one crucial thing up its sleeve: its price. Priced between from R144 800 at Group 1 Renault, the Kwid offers cash-strapped consumers the chance to own a brand-new vehicle without having to break the bank. And since the Kwid came to market in 2016, it’s been a regular top seller in South Africa. Unfortunately for the Kwid range, there hasn’t been a variety of body types to choose from. Buyers could only select the hatchback, and that’s that. Now Renault hopes to address the Kwid’s shortcomings by introducing a bigger version of it, called the Triber. Scheduled for launch in February 2020, we list a few reasons why we think it could be another sales success for Renault. Bigger body, greater space
The Renault Triber is built on Renault’s CMF-A platform, albeit a modified version. This architecture is used to underpin the popular Kwid, and Renault believes that this platform is adequate for its forthcoming Triber. The new MPV boasts with a length of under 4m but carries a face that makes it instantly recognizable with Renault’s other MPV/SUV offerings. The Triber can seat up to seven passengers, but the third row can be removed to increase loading space. With the seats removed, the cargo area is said to be 625L big. This can, of course, increase with the second row of seats folded flat. Potential buyers are treated to four airbags as standard. Appealing front design The Triber, we have to say, is a rather attractive looking vehicle. Based on the images, it features daytime-running LEDs, and a front design reminiscent of the Kadjar (keeping it in the family). The rear is less inspiring, but given its MPV/crossover roots, it does not come across as too out of place. What we did pick up, though, is a small exhaust pipe hiding underneath the rear bumper. This is a clear indication of the engine that’s in play. Renault opted to implement the Kwid’s 999cc three-cylinder engine in the Triber. This unit produces 56kW and 96Nm, and can be mated with either a five-speed manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission (AMT). Under R200k? While the Kwid carries a maximum price tag of just under R175 00, while the Triber retails for under R200 000. Given its size, the four airbags, and MPV/crossover body, Renault would price its newest addition accordingly. Because the Triber is based on the Kwid, it must continue with the budget-beating onslaught. Renault wouldn’t want to alienate consumers and drive them away from a potential buy; hence they’d want to come in with an aggressive launch price and gradually increase it. . . . . Article from: https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/opinion-why-renaults-new-triber-could-be-a-sales-success-in-sa-20200106 One of the cars which surprised me this year was the latest Renault Clio. Tested here is its big brother, sister or gender-neutral sibling, the Captur, all-new this year and continuing, one expects, the success of the previous Captur – billed by Renault as the best-selling urban SUV. It has sold 1.5 million in 90 countries since 2013 and is segment top dog, cat or other animal for the past seven years. It is based on the Clio and Juke platforms but is larger than both, with a notable increase in cargo length. Sliding rear seats are a useful feature, with a variation of six inches between maximum and zilch legroom in the rear seats. The cabin width is much like the Clio and Ford Puma and many other hatchbacks so you’ll trade up to the Captur for that extra cargo space and a slightly higher ride height. It is four inches longer than the earlier Captur. Even with the seats right back there is still 30 inches of load floor, with a 40-inch load width. This is still a few inches longer than the Puma but does not have the sunken luggage well boasted by the Puma.
Puma’s dimensions make it a sharper drive than the bulkier Captur but a more focused rival could come from a sporty understudy to Captur. This would or could make sense because the Captur is among a dozen or so compact SUVs which take some 4 in 10 sales in Europe, (JATO). The Renault Captur has plenty of bold bodily shout, with fillets and shiny patches and air vents both real and fake. The slack-jawed black radiator grille is underlined by more chrome. So, here I am Captur. Hard to miss, aren’t I? Happily it’s not all style over substance. Since December Renault gives a five-year warranty, with unlimited mileage in years one and two and up to another 100,000 miles to year five. The Captur has the latest safety and handling electronics and connections with the outside world. Renault is currently awash with incentives to re-start business after the Covid-19 calamity. For example, a £1,000 contribution towards its electric ZOE and £500 off the hybrid versions of the Clio and Captur. Captur prices at Group 1 Renault start at R268,800 for the three-cylinder 99bhp Play, which has climate control, cruise and speed control, steel wheels, the EasyLink media and phone system on a 7-inch touch screen, LED headlights, lane departure, lane keeping and traffic sign recognition. Switch up to the Iconic (from £19,095) to get two-tone paint, navigation, alloys, roof rails and rear parking sensors. The S Edition, from £20,595, adds a larger, tablet-format screen, reversing camera, front sensors. Tested here is the S Edition TCe 130 auto with the four-cylinder 1,333cc, 128bhp petrol engine and seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, from £23,395. The flame-red paint added £660 and the 18-inch alloys another £300. The sunroof, flying console holding an electronic gear selector, with useful storage below, and a height adjustable co-driver’s seat were in a £1,000 pack. With BOSE audio and furnishing upgrades the car cost £27,055, and mostly very nice, too. After several weeks in the Puma the Captur felt luxurious though not as dynamic and quick steering – to be expected anyway. Neat details: automatic locking and unlocking on approach and departure, traffic alerts – but no speed camera warning and no remote tailgate opening. Also, the speed limit reader was sometimes asleep, though the only ones it missed were when moving to a higher limit. Ride comfort was acceptable and better with weight in the boot, though you’ll still notice some thud and noise. On a highway cruise it was extremely relaxing, less so on rural roads. The small turbo engine gives decent response. The gearbox shifting action from reverse to drive to reverse is a shade slow for nifty three-point turns and the big wheels don’t help the turning circle. None of which matters all that much. You get used to these things. Article source: https://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/cars/review-renault-captur-2890415 What's the used Renault Clio hatchback like?
The Renault Clio for sale is well known to most car buyers. For that, you can thank a certain Nicole and her papa who appeared in a hugely successful advertising campaign to promote the original Clio of 1991. This fourth-generation car arrived more than twenty years later in 2013 and was a popular choice with small car buyers right up until 2019, when it was replaced by an updated version. That popularity was due mainly to its bold exterior and interior styling (including a dashboard shaped like an aircraft’s wing), competitive pricing and low running costs. The highlights of the engine line-up are Renault’s smooth 1.5-litre diesel and a turbocharged three-cylinder 0.9-litre petrol engine both with 88bhp. There are also 1.2-litre petrols either with a turbocharger (118bhp) or without (74bhp), but these are rather expensive or rather slow respectively. If you’d prefer an automatic gearbox rather than the slightly notchy manual you’ll need to opt for either the 1.5 diesel or the turbocharged 1.2 petrol, and for speed demons there’s the hot Renault Sport version, with its 1.6-litre turbo. As for the trim levels at Group 1 Renault, there are five trims for the standard Clio and two for the Clio RS models. Opt for the entry-level trimmed Expression model and you'll find Bluetooth, USB connectivity, cruise control, front electric windows, and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors fitted as standard. Upgrade to Play and the Clio gains 16in alloy wheels and air conditioning. The Dynamique Nav trims include keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers, and Renault's MediaNav infotainment system complete with a 7.0in touchscreen display, DAB radio and sat-nav, while the Dynamique S models add 17in alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, LED headlights, climate control and all-round electric windows. The range-topping Signature Nav trim adorns the Clio with TomTom-powered sat-nav, more speakers, front parking sensors, reversing camera and part-leather upholstery. If you are after a bit more power then the RS, as mentioned, comes in two versions - the RS 200 and the RS 220 Trophy. For those, after a truly sporty drive the Clio Renault Sport (RS) and in particular its Trophy derivative are very capable cars. The RS 200 comes with RS-designed LED headlights, 17in alloy wheels, a rear diffuser, a F1-styled front blade, a sporty bodykit and chassis set-up and an electronic differential on the outside, while inside there is cruise control, air conditioning, sports seats trimmed in dark cloth with red stitching and Renault's MediaNav infotainment system. The Clio comes closer than most small cars in terms of ride comfort, with good grip and secure handling that borders on good fun. There's more body lean than some of its newer rivals, but the payback for that is a comfortable ride. Aside from a restricted over-the-shoulder view, it is a doddle to drive, too. The Clio will swallow a couple of large cases without fuss, but if you’re buying a Clio with the aim of transporting small children, be prepared to familiarise yourself with their buggy’s wheel-release mechanism. Space in the rear seats is fine for children but taller adults will find that both leg room and head room is tight. Those in the front will enjoy much more space, but might still rue the shortage of decent cubby holes for phones and the like. In June 2016 the Clio line-up received upgraded materials for the interior and the addition of a more powerful 110bhp version of the 1.5 diesel complete with a six-speed gearbox. It was eventually replaced by the now older fifth-generation Clio in 2019. Advice for buyers What should I look for in a used Renault Clio hatchback? With cars as popular as the Renault Clio there’s really no need to compromise on things such as a lack of service history because if the car you’re looking at doesn’t have it the next one almost certainly will. You should also pay close attention to the condition of the bodywork because the Clio has always been popular with young drivers who might not be as spatially aware as those with more experience. With rear visibility in particular being tricky look for damage at the rear of the car. Timing chains Both the 1.2 petrol and 1.5 diesel have a timing chain that needs replacing after five years, so with any car reaching this milestone it’s worth checking it’s been done or factoring the £400 cost into the asking price. Brake hoses The Clio has been recalled twice over possible issues with how protectors on the brake hoses were fitted. In the worse case scenario this could result in wear to the hoses that causes fluid to leak, ultimately reducing braking performance (you’ll also see a warning light on the dash). This might affect any Mk4 Clio built up until April 2015 so if in doubt ask a Renault dealer if the work’s been carried out. . . . . Article source: https://joiedevivrevehicles.tumblr.com/post/619919192309841920/tips-when-buying-a-used-renault-clio-hatchback Genuine Parts are specifically designed for Renault vehicles.
- Genuine Renault Parts, Lubricants and Chemicals are specifically designed for Renault vehicles and are engineered to match the exact quality standards of the original factory equipment specification used during the manufacture of your vehicle. Quality and Safety - The quality of materials guarantees the durability and longevity of the Original Renault Parts. Tests are performed on each part to ensure that it meets Renault’s high standard in geometry, elasticity limits, breaking strains and resistance to knocks and temperature effects. - Renault uses all its know-how to improve the safety of its vehicles. Thousands of tests are undertaken to give its parts better performance, durability and flexibility. We have for example increased the surface area of the windscreen and enhanced the headlight range to improve visibility. Innovation and Design - Each body part plays a major role in vehicle reliability. The Renault industrial process is at the very forefront of technology and is subject to continuous technological checks during manufacture. - Genuine Renault spares fit perfectly to your Renault which ensures that the original design of the vehicle can be maintained without disturbing its aesthetics. Always insist on Genuine Renault parts and approved lubricants or be sure to take your Renault to a Service Center that only uses certified Renault parts, like Group 1 Renault. Article source: https://joiedevivrevehicles.tumblr.com/post/614119251918372864/why-you-should-use-genuine-renault-parts-genuine Group 1 Renault once again drives into the future with the launch of The All-New Renault KWID Climber automatic, a completely new vehicle in terms of its exterior appeal and engineering excellence, as well as 16 first in class features. The All-New Renault KWID Climber automatic also delivers outstanding power and economy with its high-tech 1000cc engine, the most spacious and comfortable cabin in the category and a refined gear system with intelligent Traffic Assist.
The first thing you’ll notice about The All-New Renault KWID Climber automatic is that it is a completely different beast from previous versions. The vehicle’s interior, revamped state-of-the-art 1000cc engine and a host of new advanced features give the new model an edge over anything else in the same class. Its top-of-the-line specs incorporate the latest Renault technology from France for superior performance and a stunning new look. Drivers will notice many new innovative additions that offer total convenience and have been specially developed to cater to the needs of the urban driver. Power shutters offer absolute ease, with smart additions like the intelligent traffic assistant mode and a highly accurate reverse camera. The All-New Renault KWID Climber automatic also guarantees outstanding driver and passenger safety by adding features like the ABS system with dual airbags, high-speed alert, and pre-tension seat belts. The All-New Renault KWID Climber automatic is also the most futuristic-looking vehicle in its class, sporting brilliant iron man lights and rear U shaped LED lights. The vehicle’s spacious, dual-tone, premium interior, with oversized storage space, guarantees a more comfortable ride for the driver and passengers. The 20.32CM touch screen with the apple and android car play with voice recognition, a completely digital meter cluster with brand new features like the ‘service due’ reminder together with 12V power socket and fast USB charging offer superior convenience & makes driving a pleasure. If you’re interested in test driving the new Kwid, or you simply want to find out more about the Renault Kwid price - visit Group 1 Renault’s site. Article source: https://joiedevivrevehicles.tumblr.com/post/190381804645/the-all-new-renault-kwid-climber-automatic-makes The fifth-generation Renault Clio has to battle it out with the likes of the new Peugeot 208, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo. Can it do that? AutoExpress travelled to Portugal for the official media drive to find out.
The exterior looks like an evolution of the old car; however, everybody panel is new, and Renault has made it a tad shorter and has lowered the roofline. Still, thanks to clever packaging, the interior is now more spacious than before, which should give it an advantage over some of its rivals. Upon entering the new Clio at Group 1 Renault you’re struck by the airy feel, provided by the new dashboard layout and clean-looking infotainment system, with higher grades getting a 9.3-inch display and, optionally, a digital instrument cluster. Other new features include the addition of a wireless charging pad for compatible mobile devices. Elsewhere, you get the usual soft-touch materials and leather upholstery that give it a premium feel. Everything is in reach for the driver and even the boot space impresses, with over 1,000 liters (35+ cu-ft) after folding down the rear seats. The model reviewed is the range-topping RS Line that’s powered by a 130 PS (128 hp / 96 kW) 1.3-liter TCe petrol four that’s mated to a standard 7-speed DCT. The combo feels refined and there’s sufficient power for daily use, regardless of the conditions. Overall, Renault has managed to obtain a good balance between performance and comfort. The new Clio won’t disappoint - find out more about the Renault Clio price and book your 2020 Clio test drive today! Article source: https://joiedevivrevehicles.tumblr.com/post/190381763995/2020-renault-clio-has-got-what-it-takes-to-win-you Looks great, feels classy. Worth a look, Volkswagen and Ford owners.
What is it? The all-new, fourth-generation Renault Megane. And what a classy looking thing it is, too. Based on the same platform as the larger Espace and Talisman – big cars we don’t get in the UK – it benefits from all of their tech and much of their style. It’s certainly a great leap on from the current car. There’ll only be five-door hatch and estate versions, with the coupes and cabrios of old dropped, as their target buyers have all moved to crossovers (such as the Renault Kadjar). What is it like on the road? In standard form, this feels like a French car of the old school, with a comfortable, composed ride and a handling balance not disposed to unnecessary sportiness. That’s not to say it’s dull, though; it’s simple and classy to drive, and a solid base for a future Renaultsport hot hatch version. The launch engine line is simple, with an equal split of turbo petrol and diesels, while there’s a diesel-electric hybrid arriving in the near future. We like the sweet 1.2-litre TCe which, we suspect, will be more than enough for most. Of the diesels, the 128bhp 1.6 dCi appeals most, offering punchy performance and a claimed 70.6mpg, though a 108bhp 1.5 dCi offers a mildly dizzying 76.4mpg, twinned with meagre 96g/km CO2 emissions. Want something less sensible? While we wait for a proper RS, a 202bhp GT comes with the curious addition of four-wheel-steering, just like you get on a 911 GT3. It works, though its artificial sharpness will feel at odds with a raw RS. Layout, finish and space This is where the new Renault Megane shines brightest. Tick plenty of options boxes and it can feel rather luxurious, with topmost versions getting a 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen (mounted in the same way as a Tesla Model S, you know…) that’s brighter and more eye-catching than rival systems, if not quite as slick. It houses all manner of functions, including a ton of active safety and parking tech, while behind the steering wheel lie bright and almost endlessly customisable TFT dials. It’s all very smart and of decent quality within the Megane, and with a longer wheelbase than before, there’s plenty of room in the back and a 434-litre boot is among the best in class. It may look sporty and swoopy on the outside but Renault’s made sure practicality hasn’t suffered within. Running costs and reliability Group 1 Renault has gone keen on pricing, considering the generous kit levels; best value are the mid-range Dynamique Nav and GT Line Nav trims, although you have to spend a little more if you want the full glory of that Tesla-style infotainment screen. Running costs look strong – with high mpg and low CO2 figures – and Renault’s four-year warranty continues to impress, making this a comfy and classy alternative to the Golf and Focus norm. Yes, it deserves a place on your shortlist. Article source: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/renault/megane Renault has updated its Sandero budget-car range in South Africa through the addition of a new Stepway Plus flagship derivative. Should this keenly-priced, feature-packed crossover be in your crosshairs? Where does it fit in? Look closely and you'll notice the Plus stickers located subtly underneath the side mirrors. The 16-inch wheels catch the eye! Visually, the Stepway Plus is differentiated from lesser Renault Sandero derivatives by the addition of gloss black side mirrors (with detailing) and its 16-inch 2-tone alloy wheels. Given their price points, the Sandero Stepway Expression and Plus are effectively a bridge between the entry-level Kwid and compact family Renaults such as the Duster and Captur. Buyers are increasingly favouring crossovers and SUVs, and the Stepway is a version of the budget Sandero with added ground clearance, front and rear skid plates and wheel arch mouldings. Is it a good proposition? Find out below. How it fares in terms of… Carting a small family around The Stepway Plus shares its powertrain with the Clio. Its 0.9-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder motor develops 66 kW and 135 Nm, which do not sound like lofty outputs, but when you consider the car's low kerb weight (just 1 055 kg) you realise the engine doesn't really have much mass to shift around. Granted, things are little different when you start factoring passengers and cargo into the equation. When the Stepway Plus has 3 adults and some cargo on board, its engine labours and fuel economy takes a hit. There's a little bonus though. When you depress the accelerator pedal fully, you'll feel a little button click at the end of the pedal's travel. This triggers the motor's overboost and a little bit of extra power (and urge) ensue. On-road refinement The Stepway Plus has a 5-speed manual 'box with a light shift action, combined with an easy-to-modulate clutch pedal, which is just as well, seeing that you are likely to change cogs quite often in cut-and-thrust traffic. The Sandero has what's termed as a narrow powerband, an area in the rev range where the engine is at its most responsive (maximum torque arrives at 2 500 r/min) and you'll be seeking that sweet spot often, like when you need to execute overtaking manoeuvres. Use the aforementioned overboost functionality and you should be able to dispatch slower traffic easily. Usually, 3-cylinder engines tend to sound a bit gruff, but we think Renault has done a good job of suppressing the triple's vibration and noise characteristics. At full throttle, there's a cute little rumble coming from the engine bay, typical of 3-cylinder engines. In terms of economy, the little Stepway Plus displayed 6.8 L/100 km on the trip computer, which we think is fair. It's pleasant to drive too, with a fair ride quality and light steering. The suspension is adept at soaking up moderate road imperfections, which is helped by the fact that the 16-inch alloys are wrapped in thick rubber. The Renault is nimble around town. "Plus" the reverse-view camera and rear parking sensors, allied with the light steering, make it easy to park in a confined space. Finally, despite it not being marketed as an SUV, the newcomer offers a useful 193-mm worth of ground clearance, giving it some credibility off the tarmac. You can effortlessly mount a kerb and traverse gravel in the Stepway Plus. Features It does not take much effort to activate Apple CarPlay; simply plug an iPhone's cable into the USB slot above the touchscreen. The Sandero Stepway has always been generously equipped and the Plus is especially so. The top derivative gains all-round electric windows, rear parking sensors, satellite navigation, cruise control (with speed limiter), a reverse-view camera and trip computer. For the first time, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available on this vehicle and you connect via a USB port and Bluetooth. Annoyingly, the USB port is positioned at the top of the infotainment screen, meaning you'll have a cable dangling in clear sight. It's odd, as most USB ports are positioned in more remote locations. Despite its budget aspirations, the Stepway Plus' safety spec is ample. It features 4 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-start assist and impressively, electronic stability control. The latter can't be switched off and proved its worth when 1 of our testers drove through a big puddle on a rainy evening. Practicality The ability to load in a 29-inch mountain bike was a boon. Despite the Sandero Stepway being marketed as (and priced equivalent to ) a compact city car, it's surprisingly spacious inside. Rear passengers are afforded ample headroom and just about enough legroom to render the Renault a small family car. With the rear seatback in its upright position, luggage space is commendable, with substantial length and depth to the loading area. And, with the 60/40-split seats folded down, there's even more space available. This author was able to load in a 29-inch mountain bike, mountain bike accessories and camera gear (including a tripod) with ease. Renault claims 292 litres of space, which is a touch larger than its nearest rival, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo. The cabin itself is well thought out, with sufficient compartments and storage slots for mobile phones, keys and so on. Price and after-sales support The Sandero price includes Renault's 5-year/150 000-km warranty and 2-year/30 000 km service plan. Services are at 15 000 km intervals, available at Group 1 Renault. Verdict
Should you buy one? Many consumers complain that new cars are too expensive and that the kind of financial outlay required to buy a vehicle of substance "out of the box" is beyond the means of most of the population. The Sandero Stepway Plus is Renault's antidote to that sentiment – the newcomer offers a lot of specification and tech, is pleasant to drive and is honestly priced. There's more kit in the Sandero Stepway Plus than in some more expensive new cars and, despite our criticism of it being underpowered when fully loaded, chances are the majority of customers will be singles or couples who won't experience that issue. The Plus is charming; you'll be hard-pressed to find more new-car value at this price point. Article source: https://joiedevivrevehicles.tumblr.com/post/189547790980/renault-sandero-stepway-plus-2019-review-renault Renault recently launched the facelifted version of the Kwid in the Indian market. The French manufacturer has made quite a lot of changes to the car in terms of aesthetics and it almost seems likes a generation update rather than a facelift. Prices for the new Kwid start at Rs 2.83 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) which means it is much cheaper than the Tata Tiago and the Maruti S-Presso. Renault also offers AMT transmission option on the Kwid.
The AMT unit on the Kwid is a 5-speed unit which drives the front wheels. Since the AMT variant is offered only on the top variants, they come loaded to brim with features. The Climber variant, on the other hand, come equipped with an attractive body kit which makes the car look rugged. This includes orange accents on body panels, roof rails, and blacked-out alloys among other things. The interiors of the new Renault Kwid AMT facelift have been updated thoroughly too. The dashboard has been updated in a dark grey theme and it has been redesigned too. The dashboard now has revised climate control vents and a new touchscreen infotainment system that gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system. The dashboard looks quite similar to the Triber. Also, the steering wheel of the new Renault Kwid is different from the previous model. However, still, there are no mounted controls on the hatchback that can be used to control the infotainment system. Renault has also not added a keyless start/stop system to the vehicle. The seats of the new Kwid also gets contrasting highlights all-over, which makes it look quite youthful. The engine options on the new Kwid are the same as on the pre-facelift models. There is a 799cc, three-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine that generates a maximum power of 54 Bhp and 72 Nm of peak torque. The more powerful 1.0-litre, a three-cylinder petrol engine is also available with the Kwid. It churns out a maximum power of 67 Bhp and peak torque of 91 Nm. The smaller displacement engine only gets a 5-speed manual transmission. The 1.0-litre engine option Kwid comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and automatic AMT transmission at Group 1 Renault. Article source: https://www.cartoq.com/all-new-renault-kwid-amt-facelift-walkaround-review-video/ The 26-tonne D Wide Z.E. truck presented by Renault Trucks almost exactly one year ago is now being used in the Lyon area. The first pre-series model of the electric truck will be used for waste disposal in Meyzieu. The D Wide Z.E. is a variant specially optimised for waste transport – as a 16-tonne D Z.E. it is also available as an electric truck for distribution operations. According to Renault, waste disposal is an area of application for which electrification is particularly suitable. Waste disposal vehicles have to drive in a stop-and-go motion, with somewhere between 300 to 800 stops per operation. This results in high consumption and increased fine dust and particle emissions due to rapid material wear. In electric vehicles, which mainly use the engine for braking, the braking system is therefore subjected to less stress. The 26-tonne Renault Trucks D Wide Z.E. has two electric motors with a total output of 370 kW and a constant output of 260 kW respectively. A battery pack with a capacity of 200 kWh will be used as an energy storage device, which should enable a real range of up to 200 km. With direct current, the lithium-ion batteries of the electric truck can be fully charged in one to two hours via a CCS plug with 150 kW charging power.
However, Renault is not alone with an electric truck for waste disposal: As early as April 2018, Volvo presented the FL Electric followed shortly after with the FE Electric for heavy distribution tasks and waste disposal in cities, now both in operation. Although these Renault trucks aren’t yet available at Renault Cape Town’s dealerships, due to their use as waste removal trucks - Group 1 Renault does offer the Kangoo and Trafic panel vans! Test drive these vehicles at a Renault dealership in Cape Town, Johannesburg and in between. Article source: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/renault-testing-pre-series-e-truck-model-in-lyon Over the course of a sunny weekend, I was fortunate to drive the new the Renault Sandero Stepway during an awesome road trip along the West Coast. This was a new experience for me where I was able to experience a vehicle specially designed for safe and comfortable driving. I find the new design of the Renault Sandero for sale to be more appealing than the previous models thanks to its cute styling, especially at the front. While driving along the West Coast road and throughout Langebaan, I began to see more and more Stepway models around, realising how popular this vehicle actually is. It felt awesome being the only one with the latest variant with its sporty roof racks. The side profile of the Sandero is really unique and its 16" unique rims adds a dash of charm to this city slicker. This model is ideal for getaways and carting around a small family for a weekend, especially where boot space is concerned. The Stepway Plus also has a rear-parking camera, to aid the driver when reversing. I love how Renault gave the Sandero Stepway a face-lift; the grille, as well as large Renault badge in front, gives it a fierce and assertive look. The 3-cylinder, 66kW, 0.9-litre turbo motor is eerily silent when idling though quite nippy and fun for a 900cc. The Stepway handles the long-road quite well with it's 5-speed 'box, and a claimed fuel consumption of 5.4 litre/100km by the automaker. The charcoal coloured interior is quite eye-catching with its red trimming, a leather steering wheel, electric windows, and aircon. What I love most is the cruise control, along with a speed limiter that beeps to warn you when you are driving above the speed limit or if there is a speeding camera up ahead. The radio/CD player features with Aux connectivity, Bluetooth, USB and a navigation system. The audio controls are behind the steering wheel, and this is an ideal safety feature when you are driving, creating hands-free calls and scrolling through music. Renault offers a 5-year warranty as well as a 2-year service plan, along with a year of insurance. If you are worried about parts, Renault offers a mobility solution if your required items need to be imported.
Overall, I found the Sandero Stepway Plus to be a fun, yet safe vehicle. If you need to spend less on fuel a month, this would be the right vehicle for you. I can’t wait to see what Renault has in store for us next when it comes to our daily commute in a safe, comfortable, and fuel efficient driving. Test drive the Renault Sandero today at Group 1 Renault today and experience the thrill of this great vehicle first hand! Article source: https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/renaults-all-new-sandero-stepway-plus-makes-a-great-little-getaway-car-20190709 Over two million sold since this vehicle was first introduced seven years ago.I always marvel at how many bull celebrities can talk when interviewed during lifestyle programmes on television. Whether singers, writers, clothes designers or actors, they often make their successes seem like a given, carefully not mentioning years of unrewarded struggle, many fruitless disappointments, plus multiple unsuccessful auditions and interviews. They also generally omit the fact that blind luck, and being at the right place at the right time, often heralded their big break. Fair enough, but here is the bit that gets my goat. Always, always, the interviewer will ask: “What advice do you have for youngsters watching you right now, who wish to follow in your footsteps?” Always, the celebrity answers: “Follow your dream, and most importantly, just be yourself.” This is problematic – 99.999% of would-be actors whose dream it is to emulate Johnny Depp will end up as unemployed waiters. As for just being yourself – what if you are a scumbag and the ANC still does not want to employ you? All of which brings us to the new Renault Duster. It is unapologetically itself as one of the world’s best small Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV) and more than two million have been sold globally since its launch seven years ago. It has just been revamped. Renault’s press release mentions stuff like “distinctly assertive”, “more expressive front and rear”, “rugged stance” and “adventurer credentials”. We – unable to match such prose – are going to cop out and simply invite you to look at the photographs alongside. We did notice the vehicle has ground clearance of 210mm, steep approach and departure angles, skid plates front and rear, plus 17- inch alloy wheels in 215/60R17 rubber ware – suggesting off-road capabilities, even in the test vehicle’s front-wheel-drive configuration. The test vehicle came with a turbocharged, four-cylinder, eight-valve, 1 461cc diesel engine, that produces 80kW of power at 4 000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 1 750rpm. It relays the grunt and twist to the front wheels via a six-speed EDC automatic gearbox. It will seat five adults, has a large boot, which can be increased via rear seat split folds, plus numerous stowage spaces. Making life easier are keyless entry, blind-spot warning, automatic climate control, speed limiter and cruise control. A multiview camera allows for easy visibility of the rear and side terrain triggered by reverse gear, while rear-park distance control enables one to sneak the Duster into really tight spots. Naturally, it boasts ABS and EBD, plus anti-lock brake assist, hill start assist and airbags front and rear. On the move, the Duster proved reasonably sprightly during my regular commute between Alberton and Industria. Renault claims a top speed of 169km/h and I have no reason to doubt them. The brakes were efficient, the steering direct and nicely weighted, while spirited cornering would eventually evoke slight understeer. The most impressive aspect was the fuel economy. I believed the computer to be faulty when a trip between Alberton and the Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria showed usage of 4.8l/100km. Apparently not, since the overall fuel usage during the test panned out at just over 5.1l/100km. That would give the vehicle an impressive range on its 50-litre tank. The Renault Duster 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4×2 is a highly efficient, economical and stylish package at an asking price of R334 900.
It comes with a five-year/ 150 000km mechanical warranty and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km intervals, and a standard three-year/45 000km service plan applies. Likes
Book your Renault Duster test drive at your nearest Group 1 Renault dealership here. Article source: https://wheelwonderings.postach.io/post/new-renault-duster-is-still-a-great-small-suv It is billed as being sleeker, more dynamic and more connected than ever. Renault has unveiled its fifth-generation Clio at Group 1 Renault which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland, March 7-17, 2019. Renault’s compact car has been slightly shortened and lowered for improved aerodynamics and athleticism. In general, it emulates a more modern style, with a new C-shaped 100% LED lighting profile at the front and rear, plus new air deflectors on the front wheel arches and various chrome details. The new model will be offered in a total of 11 body colors (with thee new shades: Valencia Orange, Vison Brown and Celadon Blue) and with three exterior customization packs (red, orange, black). The most notable changes are to be found on the inside, however, with the arrival of a 9.3-inch multimedia screen, fitted vertically and angled towards the driver. It offers access to the Renault Easy Link multimedia system (compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay) and to the vehicle’s Multi-Sense settings (driving mode, interior ambiance, etc.). For the first time, this new Renault Clio also has a digital instrument panel (TFT display from 7-10 inches, depending on the model) replacing the tradition analog dashboard instruments. Note that this new-generation Renault Clio also lands with a new Initiale Paris signature and sporty R.S. Line pack.
The Clio Initiale Paris gets more chrome detailing, as well as specific badges and rims. It features padded leather seats and a foamed leather steering wheel. The R.S. Line model, directly inspired by Renault Sport, brings a sporty vibe to the compact car with features such as a honeycomb grille, special 17-inch wheel rims, sports seats, aluminum pedals a perforated leather steering wheel. Engine specs will be announced in the run-up to the Geneva Motor Show. As well as the classic gasoline and diesel versions, Renault could soon present a hybrid version of the Clio, followed later by a fully electric version of its bestseller. Article source: https://citizen.co.za/motoring/motoring-news-motoring/2073650/all-about-the-new-fifth-gen-renault-clio Renault has finally added some safety features to its entry-level Kwid hatchback. Here are the specifications and pricing details for the Renault Kwid. Since its launch back in November 2016, the Renault Kwid has received criticism for offering derivates fitted with only 1 airbag and no ABS. Budget-minded new-car buyers do prioritise affordability over safety, but given the French car's erstwhile standard specification, it would not be considered for nomination in the Budget Car category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank, for example. However, the Datsun Go was recently updated with the introduction of an anti-lock braking system and now it's the Renault Kwid's turn to receive improved stopping power. The Kwid has enjoyed a fair degree of sales success (more than 20 000 vehicles have been sold in South Africa) and the Renault continues to sell strongly (around 1 000 units a month). For 2019, the model has received some updates, with the critical one being the introduction of ABS across the entire range. Smartphone mirroring in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now available from the Dynamique derivative and up.
The engine and transmission are carried over and for the record, the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine produces 50 kW and 91 Nm. There's an option of a 5-speed manual gearbox and an automated manual transmission (AMT). Fuel efficiency is pegged at 4.7 litres/100 km and 4.4 litres/100km for the AMT Renault Kwid Price in South Africa (April 2019)The vehicle comes standard with a 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, plus a 2-year service plan, with services scheduled at 15 000 km intervals. 1-year’s Comprehensive Insurance Cover is also included. The Kwid is available at Group 1 Renault. Book a Renault Kwid test drive today! Article source: https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/renault-kwid-2019-spec-and-price/46549/ |
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