Renault has launched its fifth model in India, the Scala saloon with both petrol and diesel engine options. The base petrol (RxE) is priced at Rs 6.99 lakh, the top-end RxL retails at Rs 7.85 lakh, whereas the diesel RxL costs Rs 8.69 lakh and the RxZ diesel retails at Rs 9.57 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).

The Renault Scala is a badge-engineered Nissan Sunny and thus carries over the same 1.5-litre dCi diesel and 1.5-litre XH2 petrol from the Sunny. The 1461cc diesel motor churns out a decent 84.8bhp and 20.4kgm of torque, while the 1498cc petrol pumps out 97.6bhp and 13.6kgm of torque.

The Scala looks a lot more appealing than the Sunny thanks to the large, aggressive grille, stylish headlights and new alloy wheels. The interiors are exactly the same as the Sunny’s and the oval and rounded theme is carried over. You get a round cluster of buttons on the central console, round vents and a round steering boss.

Renault has equipped the Scala with features like leather upholstery, steering mounted audio controls, automatic climate control, follow-me headlamps, keyless entry, electrically foldable outside rear view mirrors (ORVM), 15-inch alloy wheels, dual airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist. The Scala will be offered with Renault’s ‘Complete Care’ service package, which includes a 2+2 years/80,000km warranty and 24/7 Roadside Assistance.

Speaking at the launch, Marc Nassif, MD, Renault India, said, “With the launch of the Scala, Renault India is now present across segments of the Indian car market with products which meet our customer expectations and aspirations. The Scala will further enhance Renault’s presence in the country.”

With the launch of the Scala, Renault India has fulfilled its promise to launch five products in less than 18 months and establish a pan-India network of 100 dealers by the end of 2012.

All prices ex-showroom, Delhi

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