The Renault Kwid 1.0 SCe (68 Hp) is a city car and crossover produced by the French manufacturer Renault. Introduced in May 2015 and continuing through 2018, the Kwid was primarily aimed at the Indian and emerging markets, offering an affordable and practical transportation solution. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Kwid provides insight into Renault’s strategy for cost-sensitive markets and its approach to designing vehicles for challenging road conditions. The Kwid occupies a unique niche, blending the practicality of a hatchback with the slightly elevated ride height and styling cues of a small crossover.
Renault KWID 1.0 SCe: Overview and Market Positioning
The Kwid was developed as part of Renault’s expansion into the Indian automotive market, where affordability and fuel efficiency are paramount. It’s important to note that the Kwid differs significantly from Renault’s offerings in Europe and North America. Designed with local conditions in mind, the Kwid features a robust suspension, high ground clearance, and a compact footprint, making it well-suited for navigating congested city streets and uneven road surfaces. The 1.0 SCe variant, equipped with a 1.0-liter engine producing 68 horsepower, represented a step up in performance from the base model, offering a more refined driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Kwid 1.0 SCe is powered by a naturally aspirated, inline three-cylinder engine displacing 999 cubic centimeters (60.96 cubic inches). This engine generates a maximum power output of 68 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 91 Nm (67.12 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port manifold fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The Kwid’s weight-to-power ratio of 10.3 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.7 kg/Nm contribute to its nimble handling and acceptable acceleration for urban driving. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 135 km/h (83.89 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers (53.5 US mpg or 64.2 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Renault Kwid is a five-door crossover with a distinctive and somewhat unconventional design. Its tallboy silhouette, characterized by a high roofline and short overhangs, maximizes interior space. The exterior styling incorporates bold lines and a prominent front grille, giving it a robust and modern appearance. Inside, the Kwid offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited. The interior is functional and utilitarian, with a focus on durability and ease of maintenance. Features included, depending on the trim level, a digital instrument cluster, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while limited by the vehicle’s price point, typically included a driver-side airbag and optional anti-lock braking system (ABS). The Kwid’s 180 mm (7.09 in) of ground clearance is a significant advantage in navigating poor road conditions, and its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Trunk space is rated at 300 liters (10.59 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | KWID |
| Generation | KWID |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 SCe (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 91 Nm @ 4250 rpm (67.12 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 699 kg (1541.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 28 l (7.4 US gal | 6.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 3679 mm (144.84 in.) |
| Width | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2422 mm (95.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
The Renault Kwid 1.0 SCe, while not a vehicle commonly found on American roads, represents a significant example of automotive engineering tailored to specific market needs. Its success in emerging markets demonstrates Renault’s ability to deliver affordable, reliable, and practical transportation solutions. The Kwid’s design and features reflect a pragmatic approach, prioritizing functionality and durability over luxury and performance.
