BUSY HUSTLING

Renault is looking at the new and updated Kiger as the SUV that can improve its fortunes here in India, as the Duster is still some time away

- Anagh Bhaskar

The Kiger had quite the positive initial run post launch, but it lost its steam, owing to its rivals offering better value, but Renault has rethought the SUV, as part of its 'Rethink' strategy.

Now this is mainly a cosmetic job, with minor changes done under the skin. And speaking of cosmetic jobs, I feel Renault has done a pretty good job here. The front has changes on most areas, starting with the new Renault logo in the centre that blends well with the black ribbed section flanking it. Below this, there is a lip that extends edge to edge and surrounds the LED headlamps (same as before) while a bolder, bigger silver surrounded grille sits below, and LED fogs placed at the edge.

Over to the sides, nothing has changed compared to before as far as the body is concerned, but this new Oasis Yellow shade is quite a looker. It still rides on 16-inchers, but these new ones are chunkier. Moving to the rear, which is quite a handsome angle for the car, changes include the taillamps that retain the sharp C-shape, but get a smoked-effect clear housing, looks much neater while the chunkier dual-tone lower bumper completes the muscled up approach.

Inside, a significant change has been done to the colours, which have moved from a dark black theme to a dual-tone beige and black. It feels really spacious now, the lighter colours on the dash that extend to the doors is a neat execution, especially considering that this also extends to the new leatherette seats, top job here.