Renault XBA hatchback to be unveiled on May 20, 2015

Renault will unveil its new hatchback on May 20, 2015. This new car, codenamed XBA, will be aimed squarely at the Maruti Alto 800.

Based on the new, highly flexible CMFA platform, the Renault XBA, according to MotorOctane is expected to be called the Kayou. The Renault XBA’s styling is expected to be more like a crossover than a compact hatchback which will give the car sufficient wheel travel, hence making it suitable for Indian roads. It is expected to feature a robust and stiff bodyshell and will be high on space efficiency. Company insiders tell us that the XBA will be a low-budget offering but will show no obvious signs of cost-cutting, like you normally see on low-cost cars.

However, the talking point of the XBA is the engine. Codenamed BR-8, the motor is an all-new 800cc, three-cylinder unit, and will make its debut in this car. The Renault XBA is also expected to come with an automated manual transmission (AMT).