New vs. used Renault Kwid: What are the top 3 differences?
The Kwid arrived in South Africa in 2016 and straight away it became one of the hottest sellers in the entry-level segment, much to the dismay of motoring media who criticized its lack of safety features. The Kwid has now been improved somewhat to include a few pieces of equipment that should help set prospective buyers' minds at ease, but it's still no Toyota Aygo. Needless to say, the top 3 differences between the old and the new Kwid have plenty to do with safety.
Here are the top 3 differences between the older Kwid and the latest ones:
1. ABS Brakes
This was the biggest bone of contention when the Kwid was introduced — why build a car that doesn't have this all-important safety feature, and aim it towards the cash-strapped masses? This problem was rectified in April 2019 when Renault added anti-lock brakes (*ABS) to every model. The driver airbag was a standard feature for the 2016 model, and so was a seatbelt warning, and remote central locking. Some infotainment features were added as well, such as smartphone mirroring.
Should you be interested in buying a Kwid, look for models registered from April 2019 onwards to ensure that it has ABS.
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2. Dual airbags in Kwids from 2019
The new-look Kwid with a few much-needed features made its appearance towards the end of 2018. Everyone was pleased to find out that both the front occupants would now benefit from the protection of airbags.
Other additions in the safety department included LED daytime running lamps for better visibility and a reversing camera (except Expression model). Renault also claims that the Kwid has better road-holding capabilities due an improved rear-axle. Park distance control (in the rear) is standard across the board.
3. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality on a larger, 8-inch touchscreen
Earlier Dynamique models (and up) boasted a MediaNav system with Satnav and AUX/USB ports, but the latest Kwid (all models, except the Expression variant) allows for smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and for Siri or Alexa to take care of your needs. Much better than fiddling around with a touchscreen while you drive. We urge you to opt for a car with this voice control feature instead of giving the touchscreen your attention and not seeing the dangers on the road around you.
View the latest Renault Kwid spec sheet here.
Did you know?
Renault has just released yet another Kwid; the Kwid Ultra LTD EDT. It has white gloss body with a black roof and black side mirrors, as well as 14-inch diamond cut alloy wheels. Features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an 8-inch touchscreen with rear-view camera.
But, before you decide to buy a Kwid, we recommend that you read the following article: Is the 2020 Renault Kwid good for new drivers?
Top tip: Love the Renault brand and baby SUVs? Why not opt for a used Renault Sandero Stepway which has a much better safety rating.
Pricing (November 2020)
Kwid Expression, R162 900
Kwid Expression AMT, R172 900
Kwid Dynamique, R172 900
Kwid ULTRA LTD EDT, R174 900
Kwid Dynamique AMT, R182 900
Kwid Climber, R183 900
Kwid Climber AMT, R193 900
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*How does ABS work? The short answer is that it helps to prevent your car from skidding by preventing the wheels from locking up, plus it enables you to steer and control the car before you come to a stop. For an in-depth explanation, check out why ABS is so important here, on HowStuffWorks.
