Buying used: (2016-present) Renault Kwid

GOOD FOR: Ride quality, boot space

LOOK OUT FOR: Faulty accelerator, sudden stalling

Since its launch in 2015, the Renault Kwid has been a segment favorite. With its tough SUV-esque design, the all-important touchscreen system (top-end models) and the option of an AMT gearbox, the Kwid’s been a favourite among those looking for a hatchback. It comes with two engine options – a 799cc unit which makes 54hp, and a 999cc unit that makes a decent 68hp. Both engines get a five-speed manual gearbox, while the option of AMT is offered only on the Kwid 1.0. In its three-year stint, the Kwid hasn’t received a mechanical update; so if this is the car you want in your garage, going for a used example makes perfect sense.

Now, if you’re scouting online and have selected the ‘Price: Low to High’ filter, all you’ll find are poorly maintained base models with the smaller engine. The Kwid we recommend is the 1.0 litre model, but be prepared to shell out between Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh for it (a new example is priced close to Rs 5 lakh). If you feel the prices are steep, consider the fact that the used cars will only be two years old and are likely to have a low odometer reading.

Once you shortlist a few examples, keep in mind that the hatchback isn’t problem-free. Sudden stalling is an issue many customers have faced, even on the AMT version. Test-drive the shortlisted car to see if this happens. 

Once you’re done with these mechanical checks, keep an eye out for small niggles like the glovebox cover, which is quite flimsy, and the audio system on lower variants, which tends to malfunction.

However, if it’s the Kwid 800cc that you’re considering, remember that models manufactured up to May 18, 2016, were part of two voluntary recalls – to fix the steering assembly, and to fix the fuel filler hose. These repairs were done at no cost, and all you need to do is visit a Renault service centre, if you need to get it fixed.

Lastly, if you want something different from the standard design, you could consider one of the special-edition models – the Kwid 02 Anniversary edition, which came with a sporty paint scheme and aesthetic updates, or the Kwid Climber edition (top spec only), which got an all-new paint scheme and alloy wheels. There is also the ‘Live Edition’ model, which again came with only cosmetic updates.

Maintaining the Kwid is easy on the pocket with basic service costing around Rs 4,000 every 10,000km. In terms of fuel efficiency too, the Kwid is impressive, churning out 15.3kpl in the city and 21.5kpl on the highway. To sum up, then, a used Kwid makes a lot of sense, especially if you need a small, comfy and frugal city hatchback.

HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE

Buyer beware …

Faulty accelerator
Check the instrument cluster for any warning lights. While on a test drive, if the accelerator pedal feels non-responsive, you can get the pedal and sensor replaced at authorised service centres, free of cost.

Steering rack
A recall was issued for the 800cc models. If you’re looking at those examples, check the steering for any telltale signs. This too will be repaired at no cost.

Infotainment system
Check if the touchscreen system is working well. Certain functions like aux tend to stall. Even the regular infotainment unit tends to lag and malfunction as well.

Also worth knowing

There have been reports of sudden stalling on the Kwid, even on AMT versions, and this can be very dangerous. Renault is yet to rectify this issue, so keep a look out for the same on the example you pick.

How much to spend

Rs 3-3.5 lakh
Given that a new top-spec example costs nearly Rs 5 lakh, expect used car prices to be somewhere around the Rs 3-3.5 lakh mark. Pay Rs 3.5 lakh only if the example in question is the top-spec Kwid

that gets the touchscreen system. If not, you have room to bargain and get it down to Rs 3 lakh.
Also, try looking for examples that have been driven predominantly in the city and have a low odometer reading.