Renault has confirmed that it will launch its own version of the Nissan Sunny by this Diwali. Post the positive response Renault has received from the Indian market thanks to the Duster, the French carmaker will expedite the launch of the Scala by a couple of months.
The Scala, which will be Renault’s fifth product in as many as 15 months, will be mechanically identical to the Sunny. This means it is likely to be powered by the same 1.5-litre 84.8bhp diesel motor that powers the Nissan saloon. Going by the current market trend, it’s not clear whether Renault will offer the 1.5 petrol during the launch.
Just like the Nissan Micra-clone Pulse, the Scala is expected to come with some cosmetic changes to give it a Renault identity and distinguish it from its Japanese sibling. However, these are likely to be minor, limited only to parts such as the bumper grille and chrome strips. The top variant of the Scala is likely to share alloy wheels with the Pulse hatchback as well. Taking into account brand positioning within the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the Scala is expected to be priced marginally higher than the Sunny.