For the first time since they started operations in India, has Renault India seen such success. Their latest launch, the Kwid, has amassed more than 25,000 confirmed bookings. The news was revealed by the company in an official release today.
Offered in a choice of six trims, all powered by the same three cylinder 800 cc petrol engine, price of Kwid ranges from INR 2.56 lakh to INR 3.53 lakh. This pits the Renault Kwid on par with India’s best selling car – Maruti Alto 800 and K10, together generating average sales of 20,000 units every month.
Compared to Maruti Alto 800, Renault Kwid offers more space, features, safety and fuel efficiency. Renault also claims that the cost of maintaining a Kwid is cheaper by 19% when compared to rival Maruti Alto. Renault India managed to achieve that by localizing 98% of the content of Kwid. This not only allowed them to price Kwid aggressively, but also made sure that service and spares are cheaper than rival.
These factors, and Kwid’s SUVish stance played a huge role in making it a success among entry level car buyers in the country. As far as eating into the Maruti Alto sales is concerned, it is too early to comment, but one thing is for sure, the biggest player in the house, has surely made a notice of new Kwid on the block.
Management Speak
Mr. Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations, said “The Renault KWID has created a huge excitement since its launch and we are thrilled with the response it has received just at the on-set of the festive season. The Indian consumer has shown tremendous confidence and trust in Renault brand, the initial response has been very exhilarating and the bookings are constantly increasing. We are witnessing remarkable footfalls in dealerships across all regions since the launch of Renault KWID. The innovative Virtual Showroom and the Renault KWID app have received a tremendous response across India.”
