The new compact family cars market segment keeps growing in South Africa, with pricing being about R300 000 in 2021. The Indian-manufactured Renault Kiger is a ‘new kid on the block’, which we will explore.1
What exactly is the Renault Kiger?1
The Kiger is based on the Nissan Magnite, and both are built in the same factory. The Renault made sure that the Kiger differs distinctly, inside and outside, compared to the Magnite. Renault didn’t want to go the same route as the Suzuki Vitara Brezza and the Toyota Urban Cruiser, where the Cruiser is identical to the former apart from the badge.
What about the Kiger’s powertrain? 1
The Kiger has a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine generating 52 kW power and 96 Nm torque, which moves the car along the road via a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). The 74-kW engine comes with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT). Test drivers found the latter more appealing to drive than the 5-speed manual version, first because of its low engine noise but also because it’s like driving an automatic car. Bear in mind that automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular with daily commuters. The non-turbo 1-litre engine was also made to keep the price below a competitive R199 000.
What is the Kiger like to drive? 1
Driving the car proved to be perky as the engine responded quickly to the push of the pedal. It feels stable on the road, regardless of strong crosswinds, although the steering feels slightly heavy.
The Kiger’s great fuel economy1
The average claimed fuel consumption is 5 litres/100 km for the 1-litre, turbo manual car, and 5.4 litres/100 km for the CVT. The actual consumption achieved when test-driven was 7 and 7.3 litres/100 km, respectively, covering 100 km, although the test drivers admitted that the engines were put through their paces. The Kiger cruises well up to 110 km/hr, after which it begins to strain.
What kind of interior does the Kiger offer? 1
When it comes to space, it beats all the competitors in its segment, such as the Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite, Hyundai Venue, Volkswagen T-Cross, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Peugeot 2008, and the Suzuki Vitara Brezza. In addition, the fully equipped ‘Intens’ version of the Kiger provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a responsive 8-inch touchscreen, while an eight-speaker Arkamys audio system provides excellent in-car entertainment.
Disclaimer
Due to car insurance’s complexity, this article can only provide information. This is why you should first consult a certified financial adviser for professional advice before buying any car insurance product.
If you have taken the plunge in buying a new Renault Kiger, remember you need to obtain good cover, but by law, this will have to be comprehensive car insurance if the car is to be financed by a bank. Perhaps get affordable, comprehensive car insurance with fixed premiums* and reduce-to-zero excess*. T and Cs apply. Contact Prime South Africa for more details and to get a quote.
Sources:
