The compact SUV segment in India has been buzzing with new launches, innovative features, and competitive pricing. Among these, the Renault Kiger has managed to carve a strong presence thanks to its stylish design, affordability, and practical engine options. Recently, Renault confirmed that the naturally aspirated (NA) petrol variant of the Kiger accounts for nearly 60% of total customer demand, a clear indication of shifting buyer preferences.
This demand trend highlights the growing appeal of reliable and fuel-efficient engines in a market where customers seek affordability without compromising on practicality. Let’s dive deeper into why the Renault Kiger’s NA petrol variant has gained such immense popularity in India.
The Renault Kiger: A Quick Overview
Launched in 2021, the Renault Kiger was designed to compete in the crowded sub-4m SUV space. Built on the CMF-A+ platform, which it shares with the Nissan Magnite, the Kiger blends bold styling with everyday usability. Its aggressive pricing strategy, paired with advanced features, has allowed it to stand out against rivals such as the Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, Kia Sonet, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Venue.
The Kiger offers two petrol engine options:
- 1.0-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine
- 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine
While the turbocharged engine caters to performance enthusiasts, the NA petrol variant has emerged as the volume driver for Renault India.
Why the NA Petrol Variant Leads the Demand
1. Affordability and Value for Money
One of the strongest reasons behind the NA petrol variant’s dominance is its affordable price tag. Positioned as the entry-level option, the NA petrol caters to budget-conscious buyers who want SUV styling and practicality without stretching their budget.
2. Fuel Efficiency
The NA petrol engine is highly fuel-efficient, delivering mileage figures in the range of 18–20 kmpl depending on driving conditions. With rising fuel costs, efficiency plays a pivotal role in customer choices, and this is where the NA petrol has an edge.
3. Low Maintenance Costs
Naturally aspirated engines are simpler in design compared to turbocharged ones, which makes them easier and cheaper to maintain. Buyers in India, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, prefer engines that are tried, tested, and low on maintenance.
4. Smooth City Driving Experience
The NA petrol engine provides a linear power delivery that is more suited for everyday city commutes. For customers who mostly drive within urban limits, the NA petrol offers just the right amount of performance without unnecessary complexity.
5. Wider Availability Across Variants
Renault has made the NA petrol engine available across multiple trims of the Kiger, giving customers more flexibility in choosing a variant that fits their budget and feature preferences.
Engine and Performance Highlights
The 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder NA petrol engine produces around 72 PS of power and 96 Nm of torque. While these figures are modest compared to the turbocharged variant, they are sufficient for day-to-day driving and light highway usage. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT (automated manual transmission), further enhancing its accessibility for a wider audience.
For urban buyers looking for an easy-to-drive SUV with a balance of style, practicality, and efficiency, the NA petrol variant stands out.
Customer Insights and Market Trends
Renault India reports that 6 out of 10 Kiger buyers opt for the NA petrol variant. This trend is reflective of the broader Indian car market, where customers prioritize affordability, fuel economy, and dependability over sheer performance.
Interestingly, many young first-time SUV buyers are gravitating toward the NA petrol variant. For them, the Kiger offers a perfect mix of SUV stance, modern design, touchscreen infotainment, and safety features—all without burning a hole in their pocket.
Comparison: NA Petrol vs Turbo Petrol
| Feature | NA Petrol Variant | Turbo Petrol Variant |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 72 PS, 96 Nm | 100 PS, 160 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT | 5-speed MT, CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | ~18–20 kmpl | ~16–18 kmpl |
| Maintenance | Lower costs, simpler design | Higher due to turbo complexity |
| Target Buyers | Budget-conscious, city commuters | Performance-oriented, highway drivers |
The table clearly shows that while the turbo petrol is more powerful, the NA petrol strikes the right balance for everyday buyers.
Renault’s Strategy for the Indian Market
Renault has always positioned itself as a value-driven brand in India. By ensuring that the Kiger NA petrol remains accessible and attractive, Renault has tapped into the largest customer base. The company is also focusing on expanding its dealership and service network to strengthen its reach in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, where the demand for the NA petrol variant is highest.
Future Outlook
With the compact SUV segment projected to grow further in the coming years, the Renault Kiger NA petrol variant is likely to continue dominating sales for the brand. However, with stricter emission norms on the horizon and the gradual shift toward hybrid and electric vehicles, Renault may need to enhance the engine’s efficiency and add more features to keep the Kiger competitive.
Conclusion
The Renault Kiger NA petrol variant’s success story in India showcases how practicality, affordability, and reliability still remain key drivers in consumer choices. While performance-focused buyers may opt for the turbocharged variant, the NA petrol appeals to the mass market, ensuring that Renault continues to enjoy a strong foothold in the competitive compact SUV category.
By capturing 60% of the demand pool, the Renault Kiger NA petrol variant proves that sometimes, simplicity truly wins in a market as diverse and price-sensitive as India.
