Renault’s all-new small car – the Kayou (codenamed XBA) - will make its global debut tomorrow in India. The Kayou will be positioned below the Renault Pulse hatchback, and will take on the likes of Maruti Suzuki Alto 800, Hyundai Eon, Tata Nano GenX, Chevrolet Spark and Datsun’s upcoming Redi-Go. The production of the car will take place at Chennai-based Renault-Nissan Alliance facility.
The Renault Kayou derives its power from a new 800cc, 0.8-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission. This engine will deliver an estimated power of 45bhp – 50bhp. Rumour has it that the company might also bring in an AMT (automatic manual transmission) equipped version of the hatchback later.
The Kayou will be Renault’s first car to be based on the modular CMF-A (Common Modular Family – Affordable) platform in India. The same platform will also be used by for Datsun’s next car. Designed on the company’s global design language, the Renault Kayou is expected to look more contemporary than most cars from its league. The hatchback will be equipped with several comfort-enhancing features such as mobile charging point, power windows, speakers, driver airbags etc.
Expected to be priced in the range of Rs. 3 lakh – Rs. 4 lakh (ex-showroom), the hatchback is likely to go on sale by the festive season.
