Renault plans to make its debut into the MPV segment with the Renault Lodgy. All set to hit the Indian roads by January 2015, this spacious car comes with advanced features and an alluring price tag.
Renault, the French automaker, will enter the MPV segment in India with the Renault Lodgy, a product of its Romanian subsidiary Dacia. This 7-seater car gets its name from the English word ‘Lodge’, signifying that this car will have ample of space for the family, as well as their luggage.
This MUV would compete with the likes of Toyota Innova, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Nissan Evalia, Chevrolet Enjoy, Mahindra Xylo, and the Honda Mobilio. Expected to hit the Indian roads early next year, the Renault Lodgy production should begin sometime by the end of this year at the Renault-Nissan’s Oragadam plant near Chennai.
Design, Built & Exteriors:
Inspired by the Renault Duster, the Renault Lodgy Exteriors are simple but appealing. The chrome garnish at the front looks enticing. Though the rear does not seem very impressive, but the other advantages that come with this car, make up for this one drawback. This 4.5m long and 1.75 m wide car, with a 2.8-metre long wheelbase comes with a wide grille, large high-mounted headlights, entrancing bonnet, and more.
Interiors:
The main highlight of this car is the Renault Lodgy Interiors. With ample of seating space, the third row which comes with 144mm legroom and 866mm headroom, to comfortably accommodate two adults, needs special mention.
We expect Renault to equip this car with up to 30 litres of stowage space around the cabin, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite navigation via a 7-inch touch-sensitive display. The car may also get a speed limiter and rear parking sensors.
The other Renault Lodgy Features include Isofix sittings & booster cushions equipped seats, extra storage space, well-designed dashboard, rear air-con vents, and more.
Engine & Performance:
The Renault Lodgy would follow the footsteps of Renault Duster in terms of engine and performance. Renault may get the same 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine for this MUV that powers the Renault Fluence and Duster mustering 110PS and 240Nm of torque. The auto giant may not get the 1.6-litre petrol mill for the Indian buyers. We expect the entry-level model to come with a five-speed manual transmission and the higher versions with a six-speed transmission.
Price:
The expected Renault Lodgy Price range is Rs. 8 Lakhs to 11 Lakhs.
At the first glance many buyers may not find the car very charming. Insufficient clarity on its features is another disadvantage. However, with its extra space, an alluring price tag, and the brand guarantee from Renault, this car is certainly worth considering.
