The Renault Kiger has carved a strong identity in India’s compact SUV segment with its stylish design, practical features, and budget-friendly pricing. With growing competition from rivals like Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, and Maruti Fronx, Renault has now introduced the Kiger facelift to keep the model fresh and appealing. While the top trims grab attention with premium features, many buyers are keen to know what the base variant offers since affordability is often the deciding factor in this segment.
In this blog, we take a detailed look at the Renault Kiger facelift’s base variant, with special emphasis on its design, features, performance, and practicality—all detailed through the latest pictures.
Exterior Design – Compact Yet Stylish
The base variant of the Renault Kiger facelift continues to carry the muscular stance of the SUV while offering a few toned-down elements compared to higher trims.
- Front Fascia: The new facelift brings a refreshed grille with chrome touches on higher variants, but the base model gets a simpler black grille with the same bold shape. The bumper design has also been updated for a sharper look.
- Headlamps: The base variant comes with halogen headlamps instead of LEDs, yet they are neatly integrated into the new housing for a modern appearance.
- Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): While the higher trims get LED DRLs, the base variant gets a more minimalistic lighting setup.
- Wheels: Instead of alloy wheels, the base model comes with steel wheels covered by hubcaps. Still, the wheel arches remain flared, keeping the SUV appeal intact.
- Side Profile: The strong character lines on the side panels and roof rails give the Kiger a sporty silhouette even in its most affordable trim.
- Rear Styling: The updated tail lamps now feature a revised design. On the base variant, you get a basic finish without LED inserts, but the tail section retains the sharp and stylish layout of the facelift.
Overall, the base variant still looks modern and SUV-like, which is crucial for attracting budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on style.
Interiors – Functional and Practical
Step inside the base variant of the Renault Kiger facelift, and you’ll notice that the interior has been kept simple but functional.
- Dashboard Layout: The same dual-layer dashboard design is carried over from the higher trims, but materials and finishes are basic with hard plastics.
- Infotainment System: The base variant doesn’t get the large touchscreen infotainment system. Instead, it comes with a standard 2-DIN audio unit (or provision for aftermarket installation).
- Instrument Cluster: Instead of a fully digital cluster, the base trim offers a semi-digital unit with an analog speedometer and a small MID for essential information.
- Seating: Fabric upholstery is used with a simpler design, but the cushioning remains adequate for comfort on city commutes.
- Storage Spaces: Renault continues to offer ample storage compartments, bottle holders, and a spacious glovebox, ensuring practicality isn’t compromised.
- Air Conditioning: Manual AC controls are standard, but cooling performance remains strong, especially suited for Indian summers.
While the base variant misses out on the bells and whistles of higher trims, it delivers all the essentials for daily use.
Features – What You Get and What You Don’t
Here’s a breakdown of features offered in the Renault Kiger facelift base variant:
Standard Features:
- Manual AC with heater
- Power steering
- Front power windows
- Tilt-adjustable steering
- Central locking
- Body-colored bumpers
- Rear parking sensors
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
Not Available on Base Variant (Present in Higher Trims):
- Touchscreen infotainment
- LED lighting package
- Alloy wheels
- Rear camera
- Automatic climate control
- Connected car tech
- Keyless entry and push-button start
This balance makes the base variant an ideal choice for first-time car buyers, or those upgrading from small hatchbacks while sticking to a tight budget.
Engine and Performance Options
One of the highlights of the Kiger facelift is that even the base variant comes with the same engine choices as higher trims. Buyers are not restricted when it comes to performance.
- 1.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
- Power: 72 PS
- Torque: 96 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual / AMT
- Best suited for city usage, fuel efficiency focused.
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol (in higher trims, not base)
- Power: 100 PS
- Torque: 160 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual / CVT
- Available only on mid and top trims.
The base variant sticks to the naturally aspirated petrol engine, which is perfect for daily commutes and small families. Its mileage, affordability, and reliability make it practical for budget buyers.
Safety – Basics Covered
Renault has ensured that even the most affordable Kiger facelift variant does not compromise on safety.
- Dual Front Airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Front Seatbelt Reminder
- Speed Alert System
While advanced safety features like side airbags, ESC, and traction control are reserved for higher trims, the base variant still complies with mandatory safety norms in India.
Practicality and Space
The Renault Kiger has always been praised for its space management, and the facelift continues this tradition.
- Cabin Space: The rear bench is surprisingly roomy for a compact SUV, capable of seating three average-sized adults comfortably.
- Boot Space: At 405 liters, the Kiger boasts one of the largest boot capacities in its class, which is a big plus even for the base model.
- Driving Position: The slightly high driving stance gives SUV-like confidence, even if you’re driving the entry-level variant.
Price and Value Proposition
The Renault Kiger facelift base variant is expected to be priced competitively, starting around ₹6.5 – 7 lakh (ex-showroom). This makes it one of the most affordable compact SUVs in India, especially when compared to rivals like Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, and Maruti Fronx.
For buyers upgrading from entry-level hatchbacks, the base Kiger offers:
- SUV stance
- Spacious cabin
- Proven engine
- Competitive pricing
All these factors combine to make it an attractive option in its segment.
Final Verdict
The Renault Kiger facelift base variant proves that even the most affordable trim of a compact SUV can deliver good value. While it skips on premium features like a touchscreen system, alloy wheels, and advanced safety tech, it offers all the essentials for daily driving—a spacious cabin, strong safety basics, SUV design appeal, and reliable performance.
For first-time SUV buyers or families on a budget, the base variant of the Kiger facelift offers a practical entry point into the SUV lifestyle without breaking the bank. With competitive pricing and Renault’s growing service network, it has the potential to continue the Kiger’s popularity among Indian buyers.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly compact SUV that balances style, space, and practicality, the Renault Kiger facelift base variant is well worth considering.
