2017 Renault Lodgy Stepway review, test drive

We took the Renault Lodgy Stepway for a drive around Mumbai. Here’s what we felt.

Published on Apr 20, 2017 08:00:00 AM

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2017 Renault Lodgy Stepway review, test drive

Make : Renault

Model : Lodgy

What is it?

With the Toyota pushing the Innova further upmarket, there exists a large gap between it and the Ertiga and Enjoy, one that the Lodgy fills nicely in size and price. But its staid and very van-like upright stance isn’t very appealing, especially to private buyers. Enter the Stepway, a stylish and rugged-looking version of the familiar MPV tasked with bringing in some appeal to the Lodgy.

What’s it like on the outside?

The Lodgy Stepway gets additional body cladding along its sides, unique front and rear bumpers and new-design 16-inch eight-spoke “Panache” alloys painted in matte grey shade. Like the standard model, the Stepway is also powered by the 1.5-litre K9k diesel unit with different power outputs and transmission choices. The less powerful 85hp model gets a five-speed unit, while the 110ps model is mated to a six-speed gearbox and is available in higher trims.

What is it like on the inside?

The cabin is fairly spacious for six adults. The top-spec trim gets art-leather seat covers with dual-tone shade that matches with the overall look of the cabin which is replete with dark brown, beige and piano black finish for the centre console. The Lodgy Stepway also gets the same Renault Media-NAV infotainment system as other Renault offerings, including the Duster and the popular Kwid. The MPV does not offer automatic climate control but does come with a separate condenser and blower mounted behind the first row. Driver and passenger seats are comfortable, although a bit flat. The second row does tumble forward but still leaves little space for access to the third row which is wide enough for two adults to sit comfortably. But the high floor results in a knees-up seating position.