Renault is gearing up to launch a compact MPV in
India as revealed in October 2017. First spy shots of the Renault RBC were published last week. A recent report from Autocar India sheds
some light on the engine options.
The Renault RBC is likely to get
an updated version of the Kwid's 1.0 L SCe petrol engine equipped with a
turbocharger. In its current form, this 3-cylinder engine produces 68 PS and 91
Nm. Turbocharging should give power and torque outputs sufficient boost to
handle the extra load that will accompany the increased size and weight of the
MPV.
The report further adds that there will be no diesel
variant of the Renault compact MPV on offer. The company does not have a small
enough diesel unit to fit the RBC's engine bay.The report also states that the
company is focusing on ‘balancing style and rear headroom’. It will be designed
as a new model and not a derivative of the Kwid's design as is the case with
the Datsun GO and GO+. The CMF-A+ platform, derived from the Kwid's CMF-A
underpinnings, will be utilised by the Renault RBC.
Spy shots revealed features like LED DRLs up front
and a rear wiper. They also indicate the presence of roof rails. Expect Renault
to offer the MPV with a 7-inch MediaNAV touchscreen infotainment setup borrowed
from the Kwid. Dual front airbags, ABS, and rear parking sensors will be
available as standard fitment to comply with the new safety regulations coming
into effect October 2019 onwards.
The Renault RBC could be priced in the same range as
hatchbacks like the Maruti Baleno and Ford Figo. It may start at around INR 6
lakhs (ex-showroom). At this price point, top-end trims may end up competing
with entry-level grades of the Maruti Ertiga. The upcoming 7-seat Maruti Wagon
R may end up being a direct rival to the Renault RBC. Renault has, on multiple
occasions, promised that it will launch a new product in India every year. 2017
saw the launch of the Captur and in 2018, the Renault RBC is expected to arrive
in showrooms.
