Cardekho has spotted a highly camouflaged unit of
the Renault RBC (Kwid-based 7-seater MPV) undergoing road tests on an Indian
highway. Recently, Venkatram Mamillapalle, CEO and Managing Director, Renault
India reportedly hinted at a July 2019 launch of the new vehicle.
While being related to the Renault Kwid, the Renault
RBC won't precisely mirror its budget-end hatchback sibling. Its facade will
feature a beefier bumper with squarish fog lamps and stylish headlamps with LED
DRLs. The wide V-shaped upper grille will be in line with the company's latest
styling theme. In the side profile, one might find hints of the Renault Kwid,
but the panels are expected to be mostly new.
The Renault RBC will be underpinned by a repurposed
version of the Kwid's low-cost CMF-A architecture. Measuring less than
4-metres, the new model will be entitled to benefit from the least GST levied
on ICE-powered passenger cars.
Powering the Renault RBC will be a more powerful
version of the company's 1.0-litre SCe three-cylinder petrol motor that can be
found under the hood of the Kwid and the redi-GO. The additional power from the
turbocharged engine will help the MPV make up for the extra weight. The motor
will come mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, while an AMT could be offered
as well. The diesel engine option will be conspicuous by its absence.
