Renault is in the final phases of testing the Lodgy MPV before it’s launch early next year. These spy pics sent by reader Sanjiv Raman confirm that the upcoming MPV is undergoing intensive field trials before the sign off for production at Renault-Nissan’s plant in Oragadam near Chennai.
Renault will be entering India’s fiercely competitive MPV segment against rivals like the Maruti Ertiga and Honda Mobilio. These models together account for around 23 percent of the UV segment but Renault is hopeful of getting a slice of the action as well.
Although the Renault Lodgy doesn’t look as upmarket as the Mobilio or promise the Ertiga’s ‘peace of mind’ ownership experience that comes with a Maruti, Renault is banking on the Lodgy’s sheer space and practicality, to woo MPV buyers.
The Renault Lodgy, which rides on a 2.8-metre long wheelbase, is distinctly bigger than both the Ertiga and the Mobilio. It also offers greater room in the crucial third row.
Powering the Lodgy will be the tried and tested Renault K9K 1.5 turbo diesel engine in its 85bhp guise. In fact, Renault has heavily localised this version of the engine to bring costs down. The more powerful 110bhp won’t be offered at launch and may only come a few years down the line when the Lodgy is due for a facelift.
Like with the Duster, Renault has revamped the exteriors and interiors of the Lodgy for the Indian market. The original Dacia design was seen as too basic for Indian tastes and the localised model will get a new grille and some styling tweaks to spruce up the looks. On the inside, an-all new dashboard and plusher materials have been used to make the Lodgy feel more upmarket. A lot of the interior bits like the switchgear, infotainment display and instruments, will be shared with the Duster, to keep costs in check.
Renault is expected to price the Lodgy competitively and slot it in a sweet spot between the Ertiga and the Mobilio.
Suraj Viswanathan
Dipan Sur
Lenny D'sa
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