In a major news development, Renault Triber Turbo-Petrol launch is again believed to have been delayed in India. There were expectations of a Diwali or year-end introduction but it now seems the turbo-charged MPV will only arrive next year. Triber has been a successful offering in the domestic market so far for the French automaker. Renault Triber was launched in India last year and as it helped the automaker increase its market share to 3.2 percent in 2020 – this is a rise of 0.7 percent as compared to last year. The manufacturer at the time of the Triber launch had hinted towards likely introductions of a turbo-petrol and automatic transmission model. So far, only the Renault Triber AMT model has arrived with the company delaying the turbo-petrol variant launch.
The reason believed to be behind this delay is that Renault is currently wanting to focus on its upcoming subcompact SUV - the Kiger. The Kiger according to the company's strategy would be the first model to feature the new 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. This dependancy on the all-new powerplant, will help in cementing Kiger’s position in the highly competitive compact SUV segment feels the brand.
Talking about the powertrain in specific, the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine will be shared by other Nissan and Renault vehicles in the near future. This new turbo petrol engine is sourced from Renault’s alliance partner Nissan. It is a 3-cylinder unit, a derivative of the other 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine currently powering the Renault Duster and Nissan Kicks. This turbo -charged petrol engine is capable of delivering 95 bhp of power output and will power the upcoming Nissan Magnite subcompact SUV as well in India. It will be sold alongside Triber’s 1.0-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine which belts out 72 bhp of power output.
Renault Triber competes against the likes Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai i10 Nios and Datsun Go +. The model offers both 7-seat as well as 5-seat configuration with segment-leading 625-litre boot space. Expect the turbo-petrol variant to come loaded with features like LED DRL's, keyless entry, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The upcoming MPV will come with safety equipment like four airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensor, seat belt reminder - driver & passenger. Expect Renault Triber Turbo Petrol model to be priced at a premium of Rs 60,000 - Rs 70,000 to the other petrol model currently on sale in India.
Upcoming Renault Kiger is touted to be the most affordable subcompact SUV on its arrival in the country. The SUV is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 5.5 lakhs- Rs 10 lakhs (ex-showroom), India and goes directly against the just launched Kia Sonet. Renault is actively refreshing its product line-up in the country with the introduction of Duster Turbo-Petrol, Triber AMT plus Kwid Neotech variants in the past few months. The automaker sees India as a crucial part of its global strategy. The recent launches and expected arrivals in the coming months illustrate Renault’s ambitions for the Indian automobile market.
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