Refreshed Renault Kiger launched in South Africa
Renault has refreshed its compact SUV contender by offering the Kiger model in South Africa. Here's what's new in the line-up aside from the surprising omission of turbocharged derivatives in favour of Naturally Aspirated (NA) models only.
Since its initial introduction in September 2021, the Kiger has proven to be a success, selling over 28 000 units to date. Now, Renault aims to build on this by introducing an updated model and slashing the price to make it one of SA's cheapest cars.
Why no turbo?
The lack of a turbocharged variant stems from demand, with the French brand securing more sales of the entry-level model than with the pricier turbo models.
Exterior
Key updates include:
Front Fascia: A redesigned front grille and all-new bonnet, paired with Renault's new brand identity.
Signature Lighting: Tri-octa LED headlamps and C-shaped LED tail lamps.
SUV Stance: Redesigned front and rear bumpers, extended skid graphics, and functional roof bars (with a 50kg load capacity).
Practicality: The vehicle retains a ground clearance of 205mm and rides on 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Interior
Inside, the updated Kiger's interior refinements include:
Comfort: Ventilated leatherette front seats, new seat upholstery, a new dual-tone dashboard, and enhanced noise insulation deliver a more premium and quieter ride.
Space: There's still 405-litres of boot space, up to 29-litres of interior storage, and 222mm of rear knee room.
Tech: The augmented technology package now features a Multi-View HD Camera system along with automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers.
Connectivity: An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Sound is provided by a 3D Arkamys surround sound system with 6 speakers.
Practical touches: Cooled lower glove box and the hands-free card for keyless entry.
Safety
Safety has been bolstered across the range, now offering 15+ standard safety features across all variants:
Six airbags.
Active Safety Systems: The range now includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Platform: The model is built on the CMFA+ platform.
Isofix child seat anchor points
Drivetrain
Powered by a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated engine delivering 52kW of power and 96Nm of torque, paired to either a standard 5-speed manual and an Easy-R Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). The brand claims that there have been improvements made to noise, harshness, and vibration. The new model is available in four colours—including a new Grey. Renault provides the range with a standard 5-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and a 2-year/30 000km service plan.
Pricing
| Model Variant | Gearbox | Price |
| Kiger NA MT Evolution | Manual | R219 999 |
| Kiger NA MT Techno | Manual | R244 999 |
| Kiger NA AMT Techno | Automatic | R254 999 |